Changing dial a no-no?

[pivo]

Ready to replace a stolen DJ (inherited from my dad, painful story), I see several watches that interest me but with dials I do not care for, so I'm wondering about swaping the dial out.

I read here how Rolex is playing helicopter-mom with watch owners, but what I wonder:

1. if the new dial is model- and period-correct (say a silver stick-dial vs. a champagne one), does anything speak against it?

2. Same question for the date-wheel

3. any reason not having the swap done but an indie watchmaker (vs. Rolex)? Here in SE Florida, I know of at least one such person, and if all fails I can have it done when I'm in Germany next time.

Many thanks for your advice!

[GIS8]

Rolex wont do that. You'd have to do it through an independent watch maker.

[pivo]

I understand that as I mentioned, but thanks. But is there any reason not to have it done by an indie watchmaker, in terms of complicated work, quality etc?

[joe100]

It's an easy swap. The reason Rolex is so picky is brand integrity. I agree with them.

[crowncollection]

very easy job, open the back, press the set lever release button or screw if older, two case clamp screws to remove the movement, and then off with the hands and two dials screws that's it.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by pivo

I understand that as I mentioned, but thanks. But is there any reason not to have it done by an indie watchmaker, in terms of complicated work, quality etc?

Rolex will chang DJ dials for you as long as it is to a dial that may have been originally fitted to that model...

[Evolution]

Be sure to keep your original one. Always a good idea.

[andromeda160]

always keep the original, but it's a pretty common practice to swap dials on some watches. especially with people who have red subs and stuff, they send it in with a crap or service dial so the original dosn't get messed up

[pivo]

Many thanks for all your input and help - greatly and honestly appreciated, like all the knowledge I found accumulated here.

[harry in montreal]

I see you are in Florida. I have had great luck at a few Jewelery Exchanges in south Florida over the years. Just be mindful of those counters with scores of mint Rolex dials. Often they are not genuine. Many dealers I have seen give a price of these refinished dials including you leaving your original dial behind. Big mistake since the redone dials are usually worth less than the genuine ones.

[Vlad]

For DJs, dials do not change the value. Do what ever you want and enjoy the watch. 16xx DJ are not collectible (too many produced), thus wear it and use it!