Advice on first Rolex

[MrNemo]

Hi everyone. I, like so many, have always wanted a Rolex. I really like the vintage Rolexes. Unfortunately, vintage Submariners are so popular now that I could easily buy two Rolexes for the price of one Sub (which I am likely about to do).

Anyway, I am just wondering if there are any pitfalls for two watches that I am considering purchasing.

The first is a black pearl roman Rolex Oysterdate Precision 6694 with manual cal 1025.


The second watch is listed as an Oyster Perpetual 1002 with Cal 1030.


Can you give me any basic idea of when these may have been made or any trouble spots for these models?

I think they are both beautiful watches. For your info, I was going to offer $1,200 for the black dial and $1,450 for the white dial, if that sounds like a decent purchase. Thanks for the help.

[Michael M.]

Personally I'd go for the 1002.

[mcjp6]

Welcome to TRF.......

Are these listed on ebay? Are they listed as having refinished dials?

The first watch has a chronometer hang tag, but it is not a chronometer, please be careful, also I think overpriced. Where are they listed?

[MrNemo]

Hi, yes, these are on eBay from a dealer called F and T which seems to have exceptional feedback. They are listed as having refinished dials. I am not a collector, so I do not know what this means, aside from the obvious fact that the dial is not original. I am mainly concerned with having a decent Rolex that will last for a while, and I like the looks of the Roman dial.

Edit: I've since discovered refinishing info here: http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=116507

[adam78]

Don't buy a Rolex with a refinished dial, if you can avoid it. You will never be able to get back what you put into it (unless it was a steal in the first place). Service dials are okay, if you know up front and the price takes that into account. At least they are original Rolex.