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Old 8 December 2013, 03:18 AM   #1
kier333
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Brushing the bezel on a explorer 1

I have done a part exchamge for my GMT and got an explorer - 39mm, I absolutely love the look of the new watch but I would be interest to know if anyone has seen the watch with the bezel brushed. I am guessing if the crystal is removed, along with the movement it would be quite an easy job if someone knew what the were doing.

I would be interested in seeing one that has been done if anyone has any pics.

Thanks.
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Old 8 December 2013, 05:34 AM   #2
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I have done a part exchamge for my GMT and got an explorer - 39mm, I absolutely love the look of the new watch but I would be interest to know if anyone has seen the watch with the bezel brushed. I am guessing if the crystal is removed, along with the movement it would be quite an easy job if someone knew what the were doing.

I would be interested in seeing one that has been done if anyone has any pics.

Thanks.
I just found this while searching online. Is the bezel on the linked explorer brush? I cannot make it out.

http://theluxurywatchreview.blogspot...bezel.html?m=1
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Old 8 December 2013, 06:07 AM   #3
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Interesting concept, not sure if that pic shows a brushed bezel, I think the image is just kind of grainy but it does give you an idea of what it might look like. Not sure if I like the look or not...
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Old 8 December 2013, 06:19 AM   #4
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Any thoughts?
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Old 8 December 2013, 08:08 AM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kier333 View Post
Any thoughts?
It's an easy thing to reverse, so, my thought is that you ask a watchmaker to brush the bezel and see for yourself. I don't recall seeing it posted before, so, you'll be the first.
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Old 8 December 2013, 08:25 AM   #6
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I am thinking of having the bezel on the exp 39mm brushed. Can anyone advise if brushed would show less marks than polished.
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Old 8 December 2013, 08:40 AM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kier333 View Post
I am thinking of having the bezel on the exp 39mm brushed. Can anyone advise if brushed would show less marks than polished.
Yes.
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Old 8 December 2013, 08:43 AM   #8
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Brushed stainless steel usually shows fewer marks than polished, however I would not want my Explorer's bezel brushed anywhere but on the assembly line at the Rolex factory in Switzerland.
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Old 8 December 2013, 08:47 AM   #9
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I'm not into modding anything, especially a Rolex. It's so perfect as is... why go against its form? Anyway, if you like it, that's really all that matters.
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Old 8 December 2013, 09:13 AM   #10
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The polished bezel looks great to me.
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Old 8 December 2013, 04:48 PM   #11
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I wouldn't mess with the polished bezel. Keep it as is IMO


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Old 8 December 2013, 04:56 PM   #12
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I rather keep it as it is.
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Old 8 December 2013, 05:35 PM   #13
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It doesn't look right IMO. Kinda cheapens the watch.
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Old 8 December 2013, 08:23 PM   #14
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Don't do it. I would rather have a few scratches than change the entire look of the watch.
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Old 8 December 2013, 11:39 PM   #15
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Seldom seen but it is a fairly easy DIY project if all you want is a brushed finish.
It is not as easy to reverse in a DIY project, though.

That mirror finish is hard to duplicate by us amateurs
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Old 8 December 2013, 11:41 PM   #16
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I would also keep it as is but do what you want to do with your watches!
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Old 9 December 2013, 02:21 AM   #17
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I like the Explorer 1 bezel as it is.
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Old 9 December 2013, 02:26 AM   #18
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Give it time, it will accumulate scratches/scuffs on its own.
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Old 9 December 2013, 02:38 AM   #19
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It will definitely change the entire look of the watch if you decide to do it. I would give it more thought, as reversing the look will be a expert's job.
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Old 9 December 2013, 02:41 AM   #20
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I think the polished bezel is fine.
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:29 AM   #21
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When I receive the watch I do intend to give the bezel a brushed finish, I think I will leave the sides polished though, and take it from there. If I don't like it I will get the bezel re polished. If I do like I will get the sides brushed also. I think it will look at lot more of a tool watch, and be different from the norm.
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:34 AM   #22
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Get an Exp II, already done!
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:35 AM   #23
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Can anyone tell me if the rehalt is polished or brushed as I cannot remember and have the picked the explorer up yet.
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:37 AM   #24
kier333
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Get an Exp II, already done!
I already had an explorer 2, I don't like the look. The date, cyclops and all the numbering on the bezel is not for me. I want something that looks vintage in style with a modern twist - ie 39mm
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:41 AM   #25
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The plan is to have the bezel and sides brushed professionally. I am also thinking of having the lug holes drilled out professionally, and while getting that done i may get the minute hand changed.
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:45 AM   #26
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It seems to me this is not an authentic solicitation of opinions.
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:51 AM   #27
improviz
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You may have a point...
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Old 9 December 2013, 03:51 AM   #28
kier333
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This is the look I like.

http://luxatic.com/limited-edition-s...olex-explorer/

I don't think anyone can argue the watch on the link looks the dogs!

Last edited by kier333; 9 December 2013 at 03:56 AM.. Reason: Edit
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Old 9 December 2013, 04:20 AM   #29
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Sounds like you made up your mind already. Good luck and post pics afterwards.
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Old 9 December 2013, 04:22 AM   #30
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It's your watch so you can do what you want with it. Just keep in mind that it will definitely affect resale value should you decide to part with it one day if you don't change it back. Personally, I like it the way it comes from the factory.
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