Curiosity...a dangerous thing!

[JostheBoss]

The other day curiosity got the better of me and I dismantled the bracelet of my GMT using what I could find at home!!!

I just had to see the model number and serial number between the lugs! It was very satisfying, and luckily a scratch free affair

At the 6 end it had the serial "M076xxx" (or was it the 12 end?!)

At the 12 end it read "ORIG ROLEX DESIGN" with 116710 beneath it (no LN)
....or was that the 6 end

Both beautifully and neatly etched out, seemilngly by laser as well it was so fine

Surprisingly there was a number on the bracelet too, where it was in contact with the case. It read from left to right "E0 78200" with a tiny coronet on the right.

The bracelet is so finely engineered I just marvelled at how no gaps existed. The pins were really snug, and "internalised" with springs on each end. They fell into their positions with a tight snap!!

I then went on to adjust the clasp position...and then got thinking..

Why do we have to go to our watchmakers do have this done? They damaged the head of a link screw and scratched the clasp when they adjusted mine at the AD. I got away with all this with a large, strong fabric needle at home.

I have not tried to add a link (because there's no need) but I mean c'mon! It's a tiny screw, you screw it out, fit the link and screw it back right?! Your labrador could do it

So whaddya think...this affect my warranty?

Sorry, no close ups or macro's (cellphone couldn't get it)

[roadcarver]

You're a McGyver!!! Good thing end result did not lead up to scratches. If you're going to do this more often, I'd suggest you get a nice set of screw drivers :)

[rolex1]

I would recommend geting a Bergon bracelet sizing tool, and a few screw drivers. If your not going to fix watches, then just get one or two of them--even the ones from an eyeglass repair kit would do. About $25 between the two, and you wont have to worry about scratching that beautiful watch!
David S.

[Terry Newton]

I had the same curiosity but would not do it to the GMT. I did it to my new used Sub. But I used the appropriate tools; i.e., springbar, small jewelers screwdrivers, etc.

I agree, you are MacGuyver. This will not affect your warranty. At least you did not tear open the case of the watch. That would probably affect your warranty.

They have the great Rolex filmer in the sky just looking for curiosity seekers to get out of their warranty coverage. You were probably filmed by one of them. When you take it in to RSC they will play it back to you.

Terry Newton

[JPP]

They damaged the head of the screw of my Exp II when I had the bracelet sized at the official Rolex store on Bond Street in London and scratched the side of the bracelet too. The answer is that you definitely don't need an AD to get things done...

Nice post too!

[JostheBoss]

Originally Posted by Terry Newton

They have the great Rolex filmer in the sky just looking for curiosity seekers to get out of their warranty coverage. You were probably filmed by one of them. When you take it in to RSC they will play it back to you.

Terry Newton

DARNIT!! I thought I felt the hairs on my neck tingling!!

Now how to get that caseback open.....? Half a squashball should do the trick I know!! I'll ask Walter!

[Thani]

you had 4 links removed??

i cant believe a 40mm watch still looks good on ur wrist !

and it does by the way..

[Dan Pierce]

The right tool is a must, not that I always follow that rule. Since I was a kid the first thing I did with something new was to take it apart. Not always being able to put the parts back together or wondering what to do with the extra parts.
Jos, I'd be comfortable performing your operation. If you're careful, apply the right tools, take your time and a few precautions, basic adjustments can be done yourself.
dP

[crimscrem]

You're nuts!

I'm too afraid I'd screw up to do anything like that.

[tinknock71]

Originally Posted by roadcarver

You're a McGyver!!! Good thing end result did not lead up to scratches. If you're going to do this more often, I'd suggest you get a nice set of screw drivers :)

Yes having the right tools does help, they don't cost that much to get the right

tools especially if your going to be screwing around with a $7000.00 watch. I

did my GMTIIc myself, removed a link, and adjusted mico adjustment on clasp

I did not want my AD touching the watch, if anyones going to scratch the

watch it will be me. They have a special tool to remove the bracelet , very

easy and you will not scratch nothing! found one on ebay for 30 bucks.

Next is just a nice set of Micro screw drivers, well you know what they look

like.

[JostheBoss]

Originally Posted by Thani

you had 4 links removed??

i cant believe a 40mm watch still looks good on ur wrist !

and it does by the way..

***BLUSH!!!***

Yep, 4 links removed and the clasp down to the last/3rd notch!! Officially the smallest the GMT can go! Don't you know already, I'm President For Life of the "Skinny Wristed Hammer Thrower's Club"

...JBat's my VP

Thanks Thani!!

[Bobareno]

This will not affect your warranty. Just don't open the case.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Thanks for sharing, Jos!

But you have to do it all over again since you are not sure about on what sides you found the serial and reference numbers!

[BuffaloRolex]

Nice, Jos!

Looks like a surgical table...

[gha]

Get out the Vice Grips & rip that case open. Then start yanking out all the little cogs & wheels, etc.
Oil her up with WD-30, cram it back together, and your good for another 5 years............do not attempt this at home....gha

[frostie]

Jos that's brave

[marshallr47]

Good for you. I'm like you. I like taking things apart to see how they work. I guess that's the kid in all of us.

[unclesallie]

Jos: you have real BIG BALLS, buddy! I would never, ever fool around like that with a GMTII-c. Glad it all worked out....you guys with the tools and know-how, I'm jealous!
best, dan

[Wildwing]

Originally Posted by JostheBoss

Why do we have to go to our watchmakers do have this done? They damaged the head of a link screw and scratched the clasp when they adjusted mine at the AD. I got away with all this with a large, strong fabric needle at home.

I have not tried to add a link (because there's no need) but I mean c'mon! It's a tiny screw, you screw it out, fit the link and screw it back right?! Your labrador could do it

I absolutely agree with you. I've removed links on my OP Date, and changed the bracelet too, with no scratches whatsoever. I do recommend the right springbar tool and screwdrivers, though.

[TAT2]

your curiosity got the best of me too! After reading this thread I took off my bracelet as well (serial #'s are at the 6 o'clock position). I was a little bit nervous but it was fun.

[TAT2]

Originally Posted by TAT2

your curiosity got the best of me too! After reading this thread I took off my bracelet as well (serial #'s are at the 6 o'clock position). I was a little bit nervous but it was fun.

Ps I added a link as well, its not that hard and it is pretty cool thing to know.
But if you attempt this make sure you protect your watch! It could become a scratching nightmare!

[TARDIS]

Hey Jos....

Next you feel the urge to remove the oyster bracelet, put some tape on the lugs to prevent scratching. I recommend 3m electric tape or 3m mask tape.

The more you do it, the easier it becomes.

It's SOP for anyone buying a pre-owned to verify Series and number.

Cheers
Steve

[mickeydainish]

Gr8 Jos... excellent pic... tx for the super post.

:-)

[Jedi]

No point being nervous or afraid of doing something as simple as removing or adjusting the bracelets. We've all read plenty of horror stories of ADs and their purported 'qualified' staff messing things up.

I agree with the contention that if someone's gonna mess it up, it might as well be the owner. Furthermore, doing it on your own should bring a sense of achievement and perhaps encourage further bonding (as if we need it ) with our beloved Rollies.

[walds11]

Interesting. Now try to get the bracelet back on without any problems. LOL!!!

[BiG JeEzY]

Nice pictures Jos!!

I can really see the thickness of the clasp of your bracelet in your picture. Its a great shot. Rolex has done an excellent job updating the clasp, it is very well built and well designed.

[Road Warrior]

Originally Posted by tinknock71

Yes having the right tools does help, they don't cost that much to get the right

tools especially if your going to be screwing around with a $7000.00 watch. I

did my GMTIIc myself, removed a link, and adjusted mico adjustment on clasp

I did not want my AD touching the watch, if anyones going to scratch the

watch it will be me. They have a special tool to remove the bracelet , very

easy and you will not scratch nothing! found one on ebay for 30 bucks.

Next is just a nice set of Micro screw drivers, well you know what they look

like.

I like this removal tool. I looked on Ebay & didn't see them. Where did you buy it?

[tinknock71]

Originally Posted by Road Warrior

I like this removal tool. I looked on Ebay & didn't see them. Where did you buy it?

I found on ebay about a year ago under watch tools sometimes they have them, just keep a look out for them. New they cost about $130.00, I just moded the ends with a grinder to fit the watch pins. they say this tool does not work for Rolex but I got mine to work just fine.

[Road Warrior]

Originally Posted by tinknock71

I found on ebay about a year ago under watch tools sometimes they have them, just keep a look out for them. New they cost about $130.00, I just moded the ends with a grinder to fit the watch pins. they say this tool does not work for Rolex but I got mine to work just fine.

Thanks! I'll be on the look out for one.