Rolex spring bar hole repair

[Rahul718]

Just wondering what the definitive stance is on spring bar hole repair is. I’m in the process of purchasing a used 16610 and while it does not look polished (based on the seller’s word + my own evaluation), the spring bar holes are slightly enlarged. I’m not sure how that happens unless the wrong size spring was used. Either way, I’m looking to purchase this and send it off for service as soon as I receive it. In addition, I’d like to get the spring bar holes repaired. I know the fix is laser welding, but is this a permanent fix, provided the correct size spring bars are used? Will the repair center use the same 904L steel? Last question, is this something that the Rolex service center can do or would I need to send it to a 3rd party? I just want the repair done right and I want it to last.

Appreciate any insight

[Driver8]

You're correct that laser welding is the only way to fix it, other than getting a brand new mid-case from Rolex, but that'll cost and you'll lose the original serial number.
Yes laser welding is a permanent fix as it's adding metal back to the case.
No RSC don't offer laser welding (yet), so you'll need to go to a 3rd party for it.
Yes, the 3rd party should use 904L steel for the repair, and the ones I've seen who repair Rolex cases certainly do, but the easiest way to be sure if to ask them.

[Tools]

A proper repair would likely be to overbore the hole, press in a core and edge weld it in place, then bore a new spring bar hole'

It is precision machine/watchmaker work, you cannot weld the entire length of the hole without major grinding and excessive heat. If all you want is a cosmetic external look, I suppose that slapping on some laser weld and refinishing the weld would be passable, but it would only extend a couple of mm deep.

RSC does not repair cases, they replace.

[hutch300]

Why not just buy a better 16610? I bet it will be cheaper in the long run too.

[KatGirl]

How about using spring bars with slightly wider tips, for a better fit of the bracelet, as a short term solution?

Kat


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[996marty]

Why buy something if it’s got an issue that could cost $$$ as was mentioned previously just maybe spend that bit more and buy a better one would be my recommendation.

[Rolex1982]

Originally Posted by hutch300

Why not just buy a better 16610? I bet it will be cheaper in the long run too.

+1, OP you clearly are not satisfied with the current condition. Why settle when there are most likely better ones available?

[joli160]

Expensive repair jobs and outcome remains to be seen.
Buy another

[Rahul718]

Thanks all for you advice. Yes, an easier option is to go for an alternative watch without this issue, but this is through a family friend at a VERY good price. Even factoring in a repair, I’ll come out ahead. Of course in my option the enlarged holes will most likely hold just up fine for many years ahead, but I’m just particular on having it done right.

[Devildog]

Originally Posted by Tools

A proper repair would likely be to overbore the hole, press in a core and edge weld it in place, then bore a new spring bar hole'

It is precision machine/watchmaker work, you cannot weld the entire length of the hole without major grinding and excessive heat. If all you want is a cosmetic external look, I suppose that slapping on some laser weld and refinishing the weld would be passable, but it would only extend a couple of mm deep.

RSC does not repair cases, they replace.

Provided the steel wire used is a thin enough guage, a decent lazer welding machine with a competent operator should be able to fully fill the springbar holes on a 16610 due to the relatively slim lugs. Cap the inner sides of each lug with weld, overbore the outer side of the lug slightly with a slim countersink bit and then lazer weld the hole before re drilling to the correct size.

[Xenophon]

I had a 5513 Submariner serviced about 12 years ago by Rolex UK and one of the things they did, itemised on the inspection too, was "re-bush" the lug holes. They didn't explain what that involved and when I received it back I noticed the holes were tighter but couldn't see any evidence of any fix