Polished to Brushed

[AnthonyMX]

Is it possible to convert (or dull) the center polished links of a Rolex DateJust to brushed? I'm just not crazy about the shiny bling of the center links. I realize this will most likely depreciate the value, but I'm wearing the watch not selling it.

Thank you!

Anthony

[Ferdelious]

I would contact Rolliworks in Miami, they can do that for you.

[skipstar]

Yes it is possible and very simple process for someone that knows what they are doing. A local watchmaker or Rolliworks in Miami Florida can do it. Also it doesn’t really devalue the watch because you can just have it done in reverse to make it PCL again.

[4BostonB]

Rolliworks did it for my GMT and it came out great.

[fsprow]

I would suggest a quality jeweler rather than a watchmaker to do this. And I would remove the bracelet from the watch before giving it to them.

[AnthonyMX]

Thanks All - I'm in Miami, so will check them out.

[joli160]

It’s a very easy DIY and takes no more than half an hour with a scotch brite. Plenty tutorials around.

[AnthonyMX]

Thanks, but honestly I just bring myself to do it.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by 4BostonB

Rolliworks did it for my GMT and it came out great.

[worldofoyster]

instead, try to find a original oyster bracelet from the sub, the glide lock makes it very useful

[padi56]

Originally Posted by joli160

It’s a very easy DIY and takes no more than half an hour with a scotch brite. Plenty tutorials around.

Have to agree to get a brush finish quite easy,but a little more difficult to get polished back.

[Ferdelious]

Originally Posted by fsprow

I would suggest a quality jeweler rather than a watchmaker to do this. And I would remove the bracelet from the watch before giving it to them.

Rolliworks specializes in bracelet restoration. They have many good reviews on the forum.

[xrole]

Originally Posted by skipstar

Yes it is possible and very simple process for someone that knows what they are doing. A local watchmaker or Rolliworks in Miami Florida can do it. Also it doesn’t really devalue the watch because you can just have it done in reverse to make it PCL again.

Can this really be done in a way that restores the brushed PCL back to its true and original state?

Assuming its done well, of course.

[AnthonyMX]

Thanks, everyone! I just love the look of my OP and Explorer I, which are brushed. Every time I put on the DJ36, the polished links just don't do it for me. IMHO, it's too shiny and distracts from the watch.

[Flypanam]

Originally Posted by AnthonyMX

Is it possible to convert (or dull) the center polished links of a Rolex DateJust to brushed? I'm just not crazy about the shiny bling of the center links. I realize this will most likely depreciate the value, but I'm wearing the watch not selling it.

Thank you!

Anthony

If you wear the watch long enough, the polished center links will naturally brush over time as they accumulate marks and scratches

You could look into getting it done professionally, or try your own hand.. just be careful because if your hand slips you can mess up the brush strokes, etc. I would recommend using a Bergeon brush tool, as it allows for the most precision.

[AnthonyMX]

Thank you - I wouldn't dare to do it myself. Not to mention the dome (polished) and center links are underneath. I'm getting an estimate from Rolliworks, who are right down the street from me.

[MrMercedes]

not original.....

[WatchSmith]

It's quite easy with scotchbrite. Where it gets a little tricky is reaching the polished areas between the links. I cut a small strip of 400 grit sandpaper, slide it between the links, and "shoeshine" the polished areas until they are brushed. it helps to hold the bracelet in a vise for this part of the operation. Make some soft jaws from leather, cork, wood, etc. You can produce a very nice finish with a little effort. I've brushed my GMT bracelets since 2007.