Making non Rolex vintage watches pressure test/swimming worthy again?

[dexvd]

So I have had the idea of having a chunky non-Rolex vintage dive watch for a while but would want to actually use it for what it was meant for (probably not diving but swimming in the ocean and snorkelling).

The thing is, the common refrain; "don't swim with vintage". There must be some watches out there that have the parts availability to replace the gaskets and make them water worthy again? If Rolex can make my watches from the 60's and 70's waterproof and pass the pressure tests than why can't another brand's watch be made just as waterproof?

Has anyone looked into this or done this?

[beshannon]

Originally Posted by dexvd

If Rolex can make my watches from the 60's and 70's waterproof and pass the pressure tests than why can't another brand's watch be made just as waterproof?

Has anyone looked into this or done this?

No idea.

I guess it would depend on the watch, the company and the parts.

Why risk it?

[dexvd]

Originally Posted by beshannon

No idea.

I guess it would depend on the watch, the company and the parts.

Why risk it?

I like the idea of buying a cheap vintage diver and making it waterproof over buying a modern diver in the $1000-$1500 range to use when at the cottage and out on the beach, in the water, etc. Wouldn't wear either of my vintage Rolex watches for this... perhaps I should wait until I eventually acquire a more modern Rolex which would be a little more beach friendly.