Customized Rolex Question...to Alter it or Not?

[Matril01]

So I need some help from the collective expertise on this forum. I'm wanting to purchase a Rolex (I currently own a 10+ year old black on black GMT). I really like the green on green Submariner (116610LV)...BUT its too big for me. What I mean is that I don't like the new larger style lugs at all. I have seen some dealers who have altered an older style Submariner (i.e. smaller lugs) by adding a green bezel and green dial ( here is an example of one: http://www.luxuryofwatches.com/rolex...-custom-green/ ). My question is...is it a no no to alter one of these watches like this? I'm just wondering if this is a crazy idea, or an acceptable one? Does this reduce the value of the watch? any and all thoughts are appreciated. Thank you.

[Tools]

If there wasn't a market for customized watches then you wouldn't find the business you do making the effort.

Yes, it does reduce it's original value and the market for those who value originality. Still, that's not why many buy and customize their watches.. It's yours, do what you want.

[ppalasthira]

Let me get this straight. You have a 16710 but you want to put a green LV bezel and a green aftermarket sub dial on a GMT2? Wouldn't the red GMT hand look kinda out of place? I would leave it. Your watch is nice as it is. Plus, you have so many bezel choices to choose from.

[Daytona88]

Do what you like but expect a decrease in value especially since the mods will cost some cash

[albmich]

Highly recommend you reconsider. Aka don't do it.

[SamiKssiaa]

don't do it you'll regret it eventually

[AF_Rob]

I would say do it if you want but keep the original dial and bezel if you want to sell it down the road

[Speed]

It's your watch to ruin. IMO.

[Matril01]

Thank you for all the posts on this subject. To be clear...I'm keeping my current watch and want to buy a second watch- one that has been modified by adding a green bezel and green dial. In fact, the one I'm considering is this one here:

http://www.luxuryofwatches.com/rolex...-custom-green/

Thanks again for your thoughts...I'm new to all this and think the collective wisdom on this forum is a godsend for a newbie like me.

[sheldonsmith]

I've modified my watches (eg sapphire case back, red second hand, red date wheel, glide lock clasp, laser engraved caseback) but the modifications I do are reversible and always with Rolex parts In my mind, if it's not reversible and using knock off parts, I wouldn't do it


Sheldon K. Smith
www.Minus4Plus6.com
[email protected]
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[KevNev]

It's not reversible, but what about having the lugs polished down on the new style case?

[japenney]

I would get a 16610lv and enjoy the green bezel and black dial. That watch is a classic and will only go up in value. I'll admit that I do prefer the full green look of the modern 116610lv - but the older model has its own charms. The black dial and green bezel works just as well, maybe even better.

[Andad]

Great idea and you might even end up with lug holes.

[gwalker]

Originally Posted by Tools

If there wasn't a market for customized watches then you wouldn't find the business you do making the effort.



Yes, it does reduce it's original value and the market for those who value originality. Still, that's not why many buy and customize their watches.. It's yours, do what you want.

Exactly. If you were doing that to a one off, rare vintage piece that's one thing but nothing wrong with wanting to make the watch your own. It will hurt the value but a lot of people do it. Just not many on here and most think it's horrible. IMHO it's your watch to do what you like to do with it. Good luck.

[VIG]

IMO it would look fake.

I'd raise my eyebrow if I saw it in real life.

[Robrob777]

Wear the new case a few days you'll get used to. Don't modify it. Maxi case, maxi dial, thin bracelet combo is awesome.

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by KevNev

It's not reversible, but what about having the lugs polished down on the new style case?

I have read of this, wonder who would do it in the USA (read about a modder in UK); watchwerks perhaps?

[T. Ferguson]

Pretty simple really. If it's a keeper, do what you want to the watch, or buy one already custom made by someone who does this. Keep in mind you will pay a premium for this and the watch will likely not be worth one that's all original on resale. But if you are keeping it that's irrelevant.

If you might not keep it, well then...see above.

[Bfd70]

If you don't like the watches as they are, don't force it, and don't customize. Wait until you find a watch you like. Until then, you haventhe gmt, so you'll know what time it is.

[FTX I]

Terrible idea. Please don't do that bro.

[KevNev]

Originally Posted by fskywalker

I have read of this, wonder who would do it in the USA (read about a modder in UK); watchwerks perhaps?

They might. I had them polish the center links on my LVc submariner. Fantastic service and a quick turn around.

[Rebel]

Not for me. But, it is yours.

[brettpaul]

It's your watch - do what you like...I modified my SS Daytona b/c I like the panda dial and 62XX is not on the financial priority list now.

I used all original Rolex parts so there you go!

[Mick P]

Chaps

He bought the watch, it is his to do what he wants to it.

If he totally devalues it, so what. He is getting the enjoyment out of it and that is all that matters.

He knows what he is doing, I wouldn't do it but its a free world.

Regards

Mick

[Thatguy]

Originally Posted by VIG

IMO it would look fake.

I'd raise my eyebrow if I saw it in real life.

Looks fake because the dial and bezel are.
My issue is with the Rolex logo on a fake dial.

[jon_jon]

Most purists will recommend that you not modify the watch from its original parts.

But there are plenty of modified Rolex watches out there and if that is what you really like, you should go ahead. People modify cars, computers, and many other things.

[sheldonsmith]

There are modified vehicles out there every day, some of them are done by shops (eg Dinan for BMW) that does not lower the value of the vehicle and some may argue that it increases the vehicle's value (but perhaps to a smaller audience). I see that when modifying Rolex with genuine Rolex parts as being the same thing; it's well done custom utilising options that Rolex does not offer.

[Ruud Van Driver]

If you're interested in that particular watch, first thing I'd be asking is why has the price reduced by three grand.

[bongtris]

If i were in your shoes, i would buy a beater LVC and shave the case to 16610 dimensions. Green on green, ceramic and glidelock.

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