Do You Ever Service Your Rolex?

[Tommer]

Originally Posted by walds11

If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

i used to said that too until i took it in for a service after 12 years and what a difference does it make, well worth the $$

[GoldenBear]

To answer the question from above...Good service records WILL increase the resale value on your watch. Just like good service records for cars, etc.

[Leighton]

I completely agree that a mechanical watch (or anything mechanical) needs to be serviced at certain intervals. However I've been known to extend the service interval for most things mechanical that I own not necessarily to save money but as more of a time management/procrastination issue. Now most if not all mechanical devices have manufacturer suggested maintenance schedules and I wonder how many manufacturers error on the side of recommending service earlier than really necessary to be on the safe side.

So I wonder how long you could extend the service interval on a Rolex without getting into serious money for damaged replacement parts. After all, doesn't Rolex replace most of these critical parts during the standard service and bill you for them anyway?

[Cephas]

The author of the article the link to which I gave above, recommends service every three years. The damaged watch that he describes had been worn without servicing for seven years.

[sea-dweller]

I usually service between every 5-7 years.

[watchoutforme]

Originally Posted by mike

Yes. From RSC no question as to parts used.

Many independent watchmakers return replaced parts in orginal Rolex Packaging.

[sharif]

Seem like those that profess the need for very frequent watch service, are those that make money from such services. Watchmakers, Rolex, AD's (gets you back in their store)...etc...etc.

I just havent heard much, of 5-7 up Rollies dissolving into dust, shutting down, or lossing accuracy. At least for me, I will wear my Rolex until something happens..then have it serviced.

My Sub went 7 years, and kept PERFECT spot on time, no service. Sold it recently, so now a new happy owner is enjoying it. If there was metal on metal contact, or lack of lube, and worn parts, it would most certainly have shown signs of inaccuracy or poor power reserve.

Any thoughts?

[Leighton]

Originally Posted by Cephas

The author of the article the link to which I gave above, recommends service every three years. The damaged watch that he describes had been worn without servicing for seven years.

Wonder why Rolex recomends 5 years, then?

[Trurolexer]

I already call the RSC...again, and they explain to me what they do in regular service. Change the movement spare part if they not work well, clean the dust and rusty in movement, polish the links, and change the acrylic all is about USD 370-375.-, how about that? I think more low cost than other RSC, right? But that not include if I wanna change the dial, hands or bezel. But HELL that!!! NEVER even think to change it!!! So, really thanks for your opinion guys!!!

[StanGMT]

Originally Posted by Leighton

I completely agree that a mechanical watch (or anything mechanical) needs to be serviced at certain intervals. However I've been known to extend the service interval for most things mechanical that I own not necessarily to save money but as more of a time management/procrastination issue. Now most if not all mechanical devices have manufacturer suggested maintenance schedules and I wonder how many manufacturers error on the side of recommending service earlier than really necessary to be on the safe side.

So I wonder how long you could extend the service interval on a Rolex without getting into serious money for damaged replacement parts. After all, doesn't Rolex replace most of these critical parts during the standard service and bill you for them anyway?

Good point. Rolex were recommending servicing every 4-5 years when I got my GMT in 1968. Since then lube and seal technology has developed greatly. I'm only guessing now, but I would have thought that provided modern synthetic lubricants and modern seals were used and the watch crown wasn't unscrewed too often (thus limiting the amount of dirt and moisture entering the watch), then servicing intervals could probably be extended to perhaps 8-10 years. But I am only guessing and others might know of technical reasons why 5-6 years is necessary.

Stan.

[Stratton]

Stan, I too disagree with the 'If it aint broke don't fix it' brigade. I like Rolex watches for their robust precision engineering which imo is unequalled. Not adhering to Rolex's recommended service intervals compromises the longevity of your watch and as you said previously the fact that they perform accurately for longer is down to excellent design and manufacture. Oils and gaskets have improved but they still need internal cleaning. Wear debris can cause damage. They beat faster now than in 1968 too.

[Earl Camembert]

Originally Posted by Cephas

The author of the article the link to which I gave above, recommends service every three years. The damaged watch that he describes had been worn without servicing for seven years.

He also said the damage was caused by Rolex not using ballbearrings for the rotor as many "lesser" watch companies do.

[GoldenBear]

There is a section on the Rolex website that describes service. What they do and how often it should be done. For all of you that think servicing is a "scam", think about going to the Doctor or Dentist. Don't you get an annual physical? Even if it is every 5 years or so. Or do you wait for a tooth to fall out to get a cleaning and X-ray?

[Gedanken]

I just got this baby back:



It sat in a cupboard for five years, and then I wore it on and off for another five. I dinged it a few years ago, and it's now come back brand new.

Would I ever service it at the RSC? Hell yeah!

[Stratton]

Earl, I found the ball bearing thing interesting. One thing I do know is that the rotors on Rolex movements spin a lot more quietly and smoothly than those with ball bearings which has made me think, maybe wrongly, that they would last longer. Perhaps Vanessa could give her expert opinion. In answer to somebody elses question I was told that any parts needed over and above what is always replaced on a service at RSC cost extra.

[joieboie]

Can the AD polished those scratches on our watches????

[funlab]

my longest owned rolex in my collection is a datejust that i've had for more than 20 years. have never done a thing to it. i have a tt sub that i've owned for at least 15 years, never done a thing to it. the way i see it is, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". i've asked my a.d. and he agrees that i'm fine doing things this way, especially with the movements and oils used in the new movments.

have the case and bracelets cleaned up is a different story however! :)

[Texsubmariner]

Originally Posted by joieboie

Can the AD polished those scratches on our watches????

Yes, RSC (or anyone for that matter) will polish your watch to almost new or new when it comes back to you.

[pilapandet]

After almost ten years of running perfectly with-out servicing, my GMT II had just shown the symptom of old age. One day, the date just shown up off center of the window. The watch was still running normal, but when I shake it, I herd griding sound which it never heard that before. First I thought my four year old son damaged it because I saw my watch on my hard wood floor. I took it to a local watch repair shop last week. I was told that my watch need service. Because the oil was dried up. I just pick up a week later this Sunday, it run and look like I have a new watch (except the insert on the bezel still old). Actually, it run better than it was new. It run less than 1 sec off per day now. I had to send my watch to RSC three time just to set it to warranty spec when it was brand new.: And the cost of service is less than half of RSC or Ben Bridge cost.
I should have my watch service sooner.

[Trurolexer]

Originally Posted by Gedanken

I just got this baby back:



It sat in a cupboard for five years, and then I wore it on and off for another five. I dinged it a few years ago, and it's now come back brand new.

Would I ever service it at the RSC? Hell yeah!

Nice!!! Looking shiny bright, like brand new one. I think RSC doing the great job for this one!!!

[BlackpoolRolexCoaste]

Originally Posted by walds11

If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

I agree!

When it needs fixing no one but a Rolex AD will be allowed near it - but until then..........