Inherited Datejust 1981

[Big Sal]

My father purchased his Datejust in 1981 and wore it continually until the late 90's. He then bought a Casio 'work' watch and only wore his coveted Datejust for dress. Sadly my father went to be with the Lord on January 9th and I was given his Datejust which I have admired since the day he bought it.

I was torn between wearing it or putting it in the SD box as a memory. It fits my wrist perfectly and after wearing it a day or so I am convinced I would like to wear it as my Dad did. Each time I look at it I am reminded of the immense pride he took in the watch.

I do not believe my father ever had it serviced and at present it is -2s/day slow (not a problem to me). I am most reluctant to have any work done on the watch as I do not want it polished, I do not want the acrylic crystal changed, etc. Basically I want the watch to remain 'vintage' and am concerned that any 'servicing' will give me a new watch taking away its vintageness (how's that for a word). I might also mention that in the past when I have had watches serviced they are worse after than before.

Here is the rub. I like to wear my watches in most all activities except when damage is imminent (oil changes, and other car repairs etc). I go to the gym at lunch and never leave my watch in the locker or at work so I must shower with it. Is it likely that this watch would still retain water resistance to showering, sweating etc.? Would you take the chance? The crown screws down quite smoothly so I am thinking showering would likely be no problem.

Thank you in advance for your help. Sal

[TTmax]

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After more than 30 years, I would have this watch serviced.

Just the minimum service, ie movment checking/oiling , water resistance control , new washers and eventually crown if needed , spring bars.

No parts replacement , no polishing .

You may surely find an RSC that accept to this "minimum" service, if you ask them.

This way your watch will stay "intact" but sure for the next few years.

[SPARTAN2161]

Find a local watch maker thats trained in Rolex. Get the movement serviced if youd like but if anything hae the gaskets replaced! Although you may run into the problem of the crystal not passing a pressure test. In that case have it replaced with another acrylic. Give it a couple months and itll look vintage again. Good luck and im glad to here that your keeping your fathers spirit alive with this watch.

[hdrazor251]

x2 have it serviced but not polished and wear it in memory of your dad.

[mrt4]

A pressure tested datejust with ok gaskets is ok for swimming so a shower is not a problem at all!

But absolutely, have it checked!

[slcbbrown]

I've got my father's 1950's TOG, and it's my favorite watch. I, personally, would have the watch polished professionally-- it will look great.

As to service, when you can afford a full service, get it done. The fact that the watch keeps good time is nice, but the real problem is the watertightness for an older watch. A 1981 Rolex has decades of wear left in it, but if you get water inside you can ruin a very nice watch. Once you have your watch serviced, it should be good for almost any activity (swimming, washing the car, etc.). As part of a full service on a DJ, the crystal should be changed to keep it watertight.

[azguy]

Great watch, how about some pictures

[shairan]

I am with you. It is a great choice that you are making to wear it in his memory. Like said by others, a service to replace the rubber and change gasket would help to ensure waterproof - and I believe at small cost. As to movement your watch maker should be able to advise.

[Big Sal]

Thank you all very much for these many kind replies. It is clear that if I intend to wear it daily then a 'servicing' is in order.

I did a great deal of research on this excellent forum and decided to send it to a respectable repairer. I spoke with him at length on the phone about the watch and I believe him to be the man for the job. I will take before and after photos and will keep you posted.

Thanks!! Sal

[Tools]

Glad that you found TRF useful and that you are comfortable that your fathers watch will be taken good care of..

If the watchmaker is top-notch, he will likely encourage you to change the crystal though.. Keeping an original acrylic crystal is folly as they become brittle over age, fail to seal properly, and will lead to damage..