Rolex 16550 bezel number repair.

[Burrost1]

Hi, i now own a 16550 (service dial unfortunately ) still a nice watch and rolex serviced 5 years ago. The black inlays on the bezel are a little worn away, the watch is keeping great time and doesn't really need a service but I would like to make the bezel look a bit tidier.

Any ideas of what I can use??

Many thanks

[derekhayden]

I have seen people use Testor model paints in the past. I would think that would be fine for a solution to hold you over until service.

[JnmEaton]

LAWW, Ridley or ABC if you want to go professional. Seems to be who everyone recommends. I don't have any personal knowledge so......$0.02

[Burrost1]

Originally Posted by JnmEaton

LAWW, Ridley or ABC if you want to go professional. Seems to be who everyone recommends. I don't have any personal knowledge so......$0.02

What are LAWW, Ridley or ABC?

[watchcrank]

I used to use black marker to fill in when I wore the paint out as it always wears away with daily use. I think the last one I had was "baked" in heat to help it last. It did not wear away, I think Michael Young in Hong Kong did it.

[NKflyer]

Originally Posted by derekhayden

I have seen people use Testor model paints in the past. I would think that would be fine for a solution to hold you over until service.

This. Use a really fine screwdriver or pin/needle to apply the paint. Capillary action will draw the paint in and spread it out. It's okay to go a little outside the edges because once the paint partially dries, you can wipe away the excess.

[Woody]

Originally Posted by Burrost1

What are LAWW, Ridley or ABC?

They are all very good and well-known watchmakers located in the US.

One of the reasons why the 16550 and 16570 have never been the most popular "pre-owned" models is because of the difficulties in rectifying wear to the bezel. If I was you I would either just live with it or look to source a replacement bezel. If you decide on a replacement then make sure to buy from a reliable source. The 16550 is one of my favourite watches so hope you enjoy the ownership experience.

[R!$]

buy a new one from RSC

[Chope Man]

Humbrol or Testors enamel paint for model kit, as others have said.

But I would use a 00 pencil.

And yes, the excess can be wiped out with white spirit on a cloth.

[Burrost1]

Originally Posted by Woody

They are all very good and well-known watchmakers located in the US.

One of the reasons why the 16550 and 16570 have never been the most popular "pre-owned" models is because of the difficulties in rectifying wear to the bezel. If I was you I would either just live with it or look to source a replacement bezel. If you decide on a replacement then make sure to buy from a reliable source. The 16550 is one of my favourite watches so hope you enjoy the ownership experience.

Thanks for the clarification, i'm UK based.