How to source an original (new) 1675 bezel (from Rolex)?

[Wahlberg]

So I bought a 1675 with a black bezel. I really want a Pepsi one but Rolex will only give me one if I hand in the watch, get it serviced and they'll take the current black one which I don't want to give up. I know I can pop it out and hand it in like this, but it's such a hassle.

And the watch was serviced recently so I would end up paying +700 euro for a service and 70 euro for an insert. I wish it was easier... I was even looking at aftermarket ones but that not my thing, especially on a watch with this kind of value.

This is no ''wanted/looking for'' fyi. The prices I see online are not something I'm going to jump on.

[daOnlyBG]

I'm not sure I understand your question.

The title says "How can I source one from Rolex?" but your content says "I know Rolex will only swap them out during servicing" followed closely by "I just serviced the watch, etc."

Could you clarify, perhaps?

[Divingdeep87]

I’m 90% sure my AD would just change it or ordrer it? Tried another AD?

[Eric88]

I'd say it would be easier at this point to just buy one from a private seller. There are usually some available in the accessories sub forum.

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Nejmann

I’m 90% sure my AD would just change it or ordrer it? Tried another AD?

This. I've found a lot of differences among what ADs will and won't do. If dad says no, ask mom.

[1watch]

Don’t understand the ask. You won’t have success with Rolex for a period correct insert and I wouldn’t let them breathe on any of my vintage pieces. Your options are to look for one in the for sale section on one of the forums, or work with an established and reputable dealer. Any legit and proper condition insert is going to set you back $$. No real shortcut here.


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[1675-David]

Step 1. Remove the black insert.
Step 2. Go to AD “Help my Pepsi insert fell out” holding up your watch without insert
No luck, try next AD.

[Wahlberg]

Originally Posted by daOnlyBG

I'm not sure I understand your question.

The title says "How can I source one from Rolex?" but your content says "I know Rolex will only swap them out during servicing" followed closely by "I just serviced the watch, etc."

Could you clarify, perhaps?

It's more pondering I guess. I do and don't understand why Rolex is so difficult with these parts. Just let me buy it and I'm happy.

[1665fan]

1500$ at least for an original, or more depending on colors...there on eBay, this sales forum, a lot of places

[carwashchris]

I got pretty much the same answer, the AD takes it, sends it to the NY RSC, they do a complete service $800. minimum weed out all non Rolex parts maybe more $$ take your bezel send it back to Rolex and sell you a new one. What a hassle No Thanks

[Tools]

Originally Posted by Wahlberg

It's more pondering I guess. I do and don't understand why Rolex is so difficult with these parts. Just let me buy it and I'm happy.

Have you asked your RSC? I have never had one refuse to change a bezel insert out for me.

[1watch]

Why would you want to take it to Rolex??? Even if they would sell one, it is a service insert. Not making sense for vintage.

[1665fan]

Originally Posted by 1watch

Why would you want to take it to Rolex??? Even if they would sell one, it is a service insert. Not making sense for vintage.

Exactly, RSC is no bueno for vintage

[JustinK]

Originally Posted by 1675-David

Step 1. Remove the black insert.
Step 2. Go to AD “Help my Pepsi insert fell out” holding up your watch without insert
No luck, try next AD.

This!

[Styles Bitchley]

Originally Posted by 1675-David

Step 1. Remove the black insert.
Step 2. Go to AD “Help my Pepsi insert fell out” holding up your watch without insert
No luck, try next AD.

Yes, this. Especially once you recently had it serviced. They know they’ve already got a whack of your cash.

[bayerische]

Originally Posted by 1675-David

Step 1. Remove the black insert.
Step 2. Go to AD “Help my Pepsi insert fell out” holding up your watch without insert
No luck, try next AD.

This. Will work.

[Yaz]

Originally Posted by 1675-David

Step 1. Remove the black insert.
Step 2. Go to AD “Help my Pepsi insert fell out” holding up your watch without insert
No luck, try next AD.

[1665fan]

Do you want original piece or some crappy thin font service junk??? Big difference OP

[springer]

Originally Posted by 1675-David

Step 1. Remove the black insert.
Step 2. Go to AD “Help my Pepsi insert fell out” holding up your watch without insert
No luck, try next AD.

Every RSC and dealer is on to the "it fell out" line. The RSC in Dallas charges double retail if you show up to purchase a bezel insert and yours is missing.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by springer

Every RSC and dealer is on to the "it fell out" line. The RSC in Dallas charges double retail if you show up to purchase a bezel insert and yours is missing.

Well I guess that's one way to handle it. In principle they can justify it by saying that half of the cost is normally refunded because the old bezel is a trade-in.

Of course, it would be quite punitive for an innocent person who legitimately lost the insert. Perhaps they might be a bit more flexible for a well-known customer with credibility.

[TimeLord2]

Depends on the condition of the watch. If it needs a service they will not exchange the insert without a service. Although if the watch is in good order they will allow you to keep your insert with an additional $30 charge to "install" So the part is about $40 + $30 service fee. They won't sell me one.

[1watch]

Still failing to understand why a collector would want a new skinny font/non-matching service insert for a vintage piece? Why not buy a period correct insert from a reputable source?


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[Tools]

Originally Posted by 1watch

Still failing to understand why a collector would want a new skinny font/non-matching service insert for a vintage piece? Why not buy a period correct insert from a reputable source?

Why would a "collector" pay ridiculous money for a "period" part that is no more original to the watch than a proper service part. More so, why would a working watch need an old insert, especially at scalper prices.

[1watch]

Originally Posted by Tools

Why would a "collector" pay ridiculous money for a "period" part that is no more original to the watch than a proper service part. More so, why would a working watch need an old insert, especially at scalper prices.

Easy. A collector would want period correct because it’s appropriate for the piece. A newer, non-period correct service replacement part impacts the value considerably for us collectors. Like saying replacement hands with Luminova for Tritium is ok?! Not saying I agree about the prices, it’s simple supply and demand economics.


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[jaisonline]

The OP doesn't. i think the OP thought Rolex still has original / period correct 1675 Pepsi inserts available.

Sounds like the OP wanted to go that route instead of an online reseller .

Originally Posted by 1watch

Still failing to understand why a collector would want a new skinny font/non-matching service insert for a vintage piece? Why not buy a period correct insert from a reputable source?

[cpefy3]

I would remove the insert, and just go into the RSC in Paris and see what your options are. You might just run into someone who is sympathetic to your cause. Best of luck!!

[Wahlberg]

I just want a Pepsi service bezel at 70 euro. I would rather buy and add another 1675 (or a 16710) with a pepsi bezel than spend 1-2k on a vintage bezel.

I spoke to a friend of mine who is dating someone from an AD (not just an employee). He said no can do, they won't sell one, needs to be traded in. So that's the second Rolex AD.

[swish77]

Originally Posted by Tools

Why would a "collector" pay ridiculous money for a "period" part that is no more original to the watch than a proper service part. More so, why would a working watch need an old insert, especially at scalper prices.

Agree. I'd have no issue with a service insert, as long as you know what it is and have paid accordingly. Sounds like the OP has the original insert anyway, so the "collector" gods will not be offended. It ain't a dial we're talking about. It's a replaceable part that can be swapped easily. I'd argue that a service insert installed by Rolex is more "correct" than a random insert that used to be on another watch.

The RSC in NYC installed a new Pepsi insert in my 16700 for less than $100 about a year or so ago. I used the "my bezel fell out" excuse. (I realize that it's not a 1675, but I don't see why it would be any different at other RSCs, assuming they had them in stock.)

[Dan S]

Maybe the OP can find an insert, or find someone to do a trade, in the classifieds forums. If I had a spare service insert, I would sell it pretty reasonably.

[2nastie]

Adding to the query instead of starting a new thread, I also have a 1675 with a black bezel which I'm happy with; however, I considering adding a "Pepsi" bezel for a different look.

May I ask my fellow members what would be a period correct insert for my 1675 from 1978?

Am I assuming correctly it is one with a "red" back or is it a "blue" back? Fat or skinny font? Any other particular details to keep an eye on?