UK servicing advice for vintage datejust

[mfortuna]

Hi all,

I am a new member and first time Rolex owner :)
I recently achieved a personal lifetime milestone and on somewhat of a whim decided to purchase a vintage datejust (c.1989 16220 SS grey tapestry dial). That's not to say I was not thinking about purchasing a Rolex, but a combination of factors led to that being sooner rather than later!

Given that I bought a vintage piece my thoughts immediately turned to servicing. The jubilee was pretty stretched and after receiving a quote of around £700 for a new jubilee from RSC West Malling I perused the forum and decided to send it for restoration with Seth at TWD.

Whilst that is being taken care of I am looking for advice on servicing the watch itself, specifically RSC vs independent. Given that I do not plan on parting with the watch (being my first and all that) and that as I have papers I feel less need for the authentication an RSC service would provide, I wonder if an independent service is equally appropriate in the case? Key factors affecting the decision are obviously quality of service, time taken, price and maintaining original features.

With that in mind would anyone be able to recommend any top notch independents (preferably Rolex accredited) in London/Essex/South East who I could consider before making this decision.

It's a pleasure to join the community & thanks in advance!

[scooba]

Use Seth,

Seth is a master watchmaker and is a true gent , When you get your bracelet back you will understand , The quality is spot on

[tommy91]

I wouldn't bother with RSC for any vintage they just want too replace everything to new condition which is exactly what you don't want with any vintage piece. Just find a good independent

[rootbeer7]

I use a great chap in London. He’s recently serviced a now-sold 1601 from 1970. He even sent me this image. Dm me