16570 Repair - Would You Do It?

[wesdaniel]

Back in around 2011, I bought a (very) used black dial, 16570. It came with an aftermarket bracelet and crystal. Cosmetically, the watch had seen better days - the bezel was shot (all of the black in the numbers worn off), the dial had clear markings on it from the hands scraping on it, and the hands were bent and cracked. Fortunately, I didn't pay a lot for it.

The watch ran well, but needed service and, when I serviced it through my local watchmaker, I had an OEM Rolex crystal installed. I also got rid of the aftermarket bracelet and just put a plain, "non-branded" bracelet on it.

But, because it was in such rough condition, I honestly just never wore it. So, I recently took it up to RSC Beverly Hills. They recommended replacing the dial, hands, bezel, and, of course, putting an OEM bracelet on it along with a full service. They will change the dial to white for me which I think I will like more.

So, in the end, if I have them do the work, I will be into this watch for ~$6.5K between purchase price, original service and crystal replacement, and Rolex work. But, it'll basically be a brand new watch and will be for less than I could buy one for. Also, if I don't do this, I really have no idea what to do with the watch... it never gets worn, it's really not saleable, and I don't want to just leave it sitting...

The down side is that I'm not really sure that I will "love" the watch after I get it back... I might and it might find its way into my regular rotation. Or, I might not and would still have it sitting around. Though, I guess that I could come pretty close to getting my money back if I tried to sell it.

So, would you do it? If not, what would you do with the watch?

Thanks.

[Barada7]

You’re essentially creating a service watch. Any sense of originality will be toast. On the other hand, you’re essentially getting a great daily wear. And, worst case, you can likely break even or more if you sell it.

[HHIslander]

I’d repair and sell. Sounds like it’s time to move on.

[subprimero]

If you just want to wear it, have the work done. If you're more of a collector, sell it, as it will never be as desirable as an original watch.

[TimeAZ]

I would proceed with a complete overhaul. You are basically getting a new watch with a new life, no longer some used model. The fact that you can get a new dial (and white one at that) is icing on the cake, no brainer.

[ltmgeller]

Do the RSC service and see how you like it. It will be near mint condition. If you like it keep it, if you don't flip it. It'll probably go for more than you have into it. The service papers and white dial will up the resale value.

[yowlie]

this all depends on the condition of the case. if it is overpolished, no more money into it, or just source your own period correct dial and hands, which aren't much for that watch . . . .

[Fleetlord]

Originally Posted by yowlie

this all depends on the condition of the case. if it is overpolished, no more money into it, or just source your own period correct dial and hands, which aren't much for that watch . . . .

Agreed. If case is over polished, don't put .01 more into it. Sell and move on.

[Gab27]

Do you have a picture of the watch? I'd personally lean towards overhauling it, but if the metal has already been ground down to high heck, to make the watch look new it would need a full case restoration, which RSC does not offer AFAIK.

[JRedford]

I would do it.

[Lew Archer]

I would have the RSC do the work. It should make for an interesting restoration project, and you can post the before and after pictures here. You'll end up with a first class watch...and you can sell that if you don't really enjoy owning it.

However, there was a reason you bought it in the first place. So, to bring out the watch's full potential, some investment is required.

[TimeLord2]

Pictures. If the case is in good condition or at least fairly thick, I would definitely do it. Like others have said, a brand new watch in the end with careful ministrations from RSC and a fresh 2-year warranty. all for $6500. Well worth it, and I believe even with all service parts you would get your money back. If you like the polar explorer, you will essentially be getting what appears to be a new watch back from RSC.

[Jackie Daytona]

I would do it. $6.5 all in to come out with a reasonably nice 16570 to daily or wear when you wouldn’t want to wear your others would be great. Worst comes to worst after the RSC service you could still get more than that back unless the case is absolutely trashed which I’m assuming it’s not since RSC didn’t recommend replacement.

[Harry-57]

I would do it if the case is in good condition - not all bashed up and not over polished. The Polar dial is quite something.

[Tools]

No better feeling than rescuing a good watch that has seen better days.

[wesdaniel]

A few pictures are attached for those who have asked. Unfortunately, I never really thought to take pics right before dropping off, so there won't be good before & after photos.

I went ahead and approved RSC to do the work and replace with a white dial. I think I will like it more when it is in better condition.

[Tools]

Looks great.

Here is what it will look like when it's done.

[underpar]

Doing nothing has no benefit and the watch has little value.

Sending to RSC gives you the option to keep or sell and, either way you have a valuable watch.

[173rdabn]

Do it, you'll love it. It will be like new. A few years ago, I had a Polar dial 16570 and really liked it.

[Rado63]

I would not hesitate to repair the watch at RSC because it will have more appeal for you to want to wear it, and it will increase it's market value if you decide to sell it. If I found a watch that could be rescued and it's an authentic Rolex five digit that I could bring back to life I would do it.

[Gab27]

Originally Posted by wesdaniel

A few pictures are attached for those who have asked. Unfortunately, I never really thought to take pics right before dropping off, so there won't be good before & after photos.

I went ahead and approved RSC to do the work and replace with a white dial. I think I will like it more when it is in better condition.

Personally, I would definitely restore that. IMHO, it will come out great.

[Aquaholic_user]

I like it the way it is. No worries banging it on every door frame and bedpost around.

Sent from my balloon knot

[wesdaniel]

Originally Posted by Tools

Looks great.

Here is what it will look like when it's done.

Attachment 1296278

Thanks!!

And thanks to everybody for the feedback.

This makes me feel way better about my decision and the money I'm putting into it! I'll post pics when I get it back!

[Dirt]

On balance, I think I would definately spend the money and simply be done with it under the same circumstances.
Then you can enjoy the watch to the full

Then again I have a very soft spot for the reference and can fully appreciate all that it brings to the table as a daily wearer. She will be a real beauty and you have an opportunity to put your stamp well and truly on it from an ownership experience.
You will also gain an insight into what an RSC can do for you and your watch over a lifetime of Rolex ownership through the experience and you won't lose out on anything at the end of the day
I would still have mine until the day I die, it I hadn't bought a 116660 which blew my Rolex collection up from the inside

Looking forward to seeing pics of it when it comes back
Living vicariously of course

[Lew Archer]

I'm glad you went through with the restoration. I think you will love the end result. And, because it's been a bit of a project, I think it will make the end result that much more special to you. As Tools said, there's a special feeling about rescuing a fine watch and giving it a new lease on life, so to speak.

[fskywalker]

Good choice!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Jackie Daytona]

Look forwards to see the finished product. Hoping you’ll update us with pics.

[Polarexplorerii]

I would do it

[Chewbacca]

You stole it. I don’t think $6.5k total invested is an equivalent Tudor Pro gmt at resale today. Do the work and enjoy with a 2yr warranty and fresh restart.

[StillTrying]

Can I ask what the RSC estimate was for all the work?