Opening the case? Serious question.

[Bisquitlips]

I notice some folks around here open the case of their Rollies by unscrewing the back. I know that this is necessary sometimes in order to verify a watch is genuine, inspect the movement, etc.

After you do this and then put it back on, how can you be sure that the case is still water tight? I do know that there is a gasket and everything should tighten back up nicely, but I think after doing this I think I would be a bit concerned about its integrity.

[tphan]

Yep. I also thought about this. There must be a torque spec to ensure proper water resistance.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Bisquitlips

I notice some folks around here open the case of their Rollies by unscrewing the back. I know that this is necessary sometimes in order to verify a watch is genuine, inspect the movement, etc.

After you do this and then put it back on, how can you be sure that the case is still water tight? I do know that there is a gasket and everything should tighten back up nicely, but I think after doing this I think I would be a bit concerned about its integrity.

When ever case back is removed its best to have watch pressure tested.Especially if you are going to use the watch for diving etc.

[Bisquitlips]

Originally Posted by padi56

When ever case back is removed its best to have watch pressure tested.Especially if you are going to use the watch for diving etc.

Is this something that most AD's can do or does it need to be sent into an RSC?

Thanks!

[Tools]

Most watchmakers can do the pressure check for you at a very reasonable charge. It is somelthing that you should do every year if you spend a lot of time in the water.

After all, they do hundreds of watches during the year and today, most watches have a water resistance rating of some level.

Some dive watches may not be able to be tested for full depth rating without sending them away.

[Bisquitlips]

Originally Posted by Tools

Most watchmakers can do the pressure check for you at a very reasonable charge. It is somelthing that you should do every year if you spend a lot of time in the water.

After all, they do hundreds of watches during the year and today, most watches have a water resistance rating of some level.

Some dive watches may not be able to be tested for full depth rating without sending them away.

Awesome information!

Thanks all!

[C. Davidson]

An AD that has a certified watchmaker with a Rolex parts account will be able to help you out. Not every AD has the preceding, due to a shortage of watchmakers nationwide. If you find one; they have the correct equipment, tools and materials necessary to take the caseback on and off properly.

Things that could go wrong when a layperson (or an unauthorized watchmaker) attempts to remove a Rolex caseback and ballpark repair estimates:

• The notches on the caseback become stripped. New caseback: $100- $200.
• The threading on the screw in case back or in the case becomes stripped. New case around $1000.
• Caseback not screwed in tight enough or caseback gasket not properly oiled. Not Water Resistant. New Movement, $1600-$2000.
• If Rolex needs to do any of the above, they will probably insist on a Rolex Oyster Service. ROS: $450-$600.
• Having a certified watchmaker with proper equipement remove a caseback and inspect the movement for you: priceless... (free to negligible charge).

If the watchmaker comps this service, throw him a few bucks. He will be a great contact for you in the future.

[Bisquitlips]

Originally Posted by C. Davidson

An AD that has a certified watchmaker with a Rolex parts account will be able to help you out. Not every AD has the preceding, due to a shortage of watchmakers nationwide. If you find one; they have the correct equipment, tools and materials necessary to take the caseback on and off properly.

Things that could go wrong when a layperson (or an unauthorized watchmaker) attempts to remove a Rolex caseback and ballpark repair estimates:

• The notches on the caseback become stripped. New caseback: $100- $200.
• The threading on the screw in case back or in the case becomes stripped. New case around $1000.
• Caseback not screwed in tight enough or caseback gasket not properly oiled. Not Water Resistant. New Movement, $1600-$2000.
• If Rolex needs to do any of the above, they will probably insist on a Rolex Oyster Service. ROS: $450-$600.
• Having a certified watchmaker with proper equipement remove a caseback and inspect the movement for you: priceless... (free to negligible charge).

If the watchmaker comps this service, throw him a few bucks. He will be a great contact for you in the future.