The Most Affordable Vintage Rolex Model?

[218225]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

So true, lug thickness, corrosion, scratches and gouges, dial and bezel condition all factor in determining value.



16XX lugs were thinner than the succeeding 16XXX models and a good test of how much meat is left is to look at how much spring bar is visible in the hole. If the end of the bar is close to the hole that means a lot of metal has been polished off. If the spring bar protrudes, pass. Look at the side of the watch, is the lug hole centered in the lug? If the hole is close to the top of the lug lots of metal has been polished off the top of the lug.



SNIP

YMMV

Please note that you can get spingbars in two lengths, one ,2mm shorter then the other. So check the depth carefully.

How I know? I had to get new sprinbars for my 1655 and the AD in Essen wanted to know the length!

[dexvd]

Originally Posted by offrdmania

Model 6694 Oysterdate. It has a 35mm case with a 19mm bracelet and can be had between 900-1600.

What is the non-date equivalent of the 6694? Is it the 6426 and 6424? Or is there a newer (made into the 80s like the 6694) non date manual wind reference?

[linesiders]

Keeping an eye out for a 36mm early Datejust is IMO a great value and can be found for a good price with enough searching - some superb dial choices out there too


This was one of the most affordable 34mm available in 72

[Gob Bluth]

AK5500 is a great value piece. It looks larger on the bracelet than it does on a strap. It's on the smaller side on my 6.75" wrist so I can't imagine it working for a big wrist.


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