1969 1680 Submariner Service Advice

[BW1680]

Hello folks, I tried to do some searching, but I apologize if this topic comes up often and has been answered before.

I have 1969 1680 that holds allot of sentimental value to me, and I would like for it to be repaired as the inner crown threads are stripped and make seating the crown impossible. The watch itself very well may have never been serviced, and I am sure it could benefit from cleaning possible other service related improvements. I recently was motivated to finally take the watch to a Rolex Authorized Dealer (RAD ?), they, as you would image, wrapped the watch up and sent it to one of the RSCs.
The RAD went over with me the typical Rolex approach of replacing anything that is showing signs of flaking or worn beyond acceptable limits, but they felt that the dial and hands looked like they were in good shape, but they could not guarantee that the RSC would not recommend replacement. I was okay with that as I figured if they did recommend those things be replaced I could always decline it. I should mention that this model has very nice patina on the hands that matches the original red sub dial.
Well today 2 weeks after bringing the watch to the RAD I received a call from the RAD indicating that the RSC has request a pre-estimate inspection of the watch requiring a $500 non-refundable (but applied to any eventual repair). I don't have a problem with the amount outside of the fact that I am not sure how to reflect on the fact that after paying it, the RSC may still say that they are unable do the repairs (lack of parts ?) or be unwilling to accept my limitation on not replacing the dial or hands or even possibly the estimate is so high for repairs that I realistically have to rethink the repair.

So on with my questions, has anyone experienced anything similar with a RSC requesting a pre-estimate inspection ? My RAD said it was not typical, but I accept that my watch it not either, but I would like to hear other more experienced individuals chime it. I am not really a "watch" guy so I could really use the advice of other who are.. Thanks.

[Franks07]

You have a very valuable watch that must be retrieved back from the Rolex Service Center immediately and turned over to one of the highly recommended vintage Rolex independents from this forum...there are several...do a forum search to find one you are comfortable with. Bob and Philip Ridley in Texas is very highly thought of as are Riki (in Florida I believe) and LA Watch Werks (in Pasadena Ca,)
Pictures posted here can be very helpful if you are seeking specific input from the many experts here on exactly what you should / shouldn't do....generally less is always best with these rare vintage pieces.
As stated previously...you have a very valuable timepiece (depending on the overall condition of the dial, hands, and bezel/case and especially if you happen to also have the original receipt, warranty papers and boxes) that requires extreme caution in how you proceed with the "restoration"...before and after pictures are always welcome here!
Good Luck!

[DocHorton]

NEVER LET AN AD OR RSC SERVICE A VINTAGE WATCH!

Get it back and send it to one of the good independents on this forum.

[jban5]

Cordially decline.

Apologize for taking their time.

Instruct your local AD to instruct the RSC to return the watch with no action taken whatsoever, period.

[RC2]

Get it out the there. They will make it look new and it will look awful.


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[AS1]

follow the good advice given on this thread, please!! rescue that watch!

[jban5]

I wouldn't fret too much about it, after all the dial is only worth $4-5k and insert maybe $2k. What's 6 thousand dollars among friends?

[Wing Zero]

You knew enough to know you had a red sub with a nice patina... but still sent it to a RAD and then to an RSC?

[joli160]

Originally Posted by Franks07

You have a very valuable watch that must be retrieved back from the Rolex Service Center immediately and turned over to one of the highly recommended vintage Rolex independents from this forum...there are several...do a forum search to find one you are comfortable with. Bob and Philip Ridley in Texas is very highly thought of as are Riki (in Florida I believe) and LA Watch Werks (in Pasadena Ca,)
Pictures posted here can be very helpful if you are seeking specific input from the many experts here on exactly what you should / shouldn't do....generally less is always best with these rare vintage pieces.
As stated previously...you have a very valuable timepiece (depending on the overall condition of the dial, hands, and bezel/case and especially if you happen to also have the original receipt, warranty papers and boxes) that requires extreme caution in how you proceed with the "restoration"...before and after pictures are always welcome here!
Good Luck!

Follow this and get your watch back fast