Reply With QuoteI think it looks great... but IF you decided on a NOS bezel insert you could always swap back the original one - like best of both worlds.
Definately a keeper :wink:
I've got a 1980 Rolex GMT, which I've had since new and worn for most of that time. It's well used, but serviced every 3-5 years - so far I've kept the original, now rather faded bezel. Question is should I have this replaced, or keep the watch as is? I'm leaning towards leavng it alone, but would like some opinions. Not planning on ever selling it.
I think it looks great... but IF you decided on a NOS bezel insert you could always swap back the original one - like best of both worlds.
Definately a keeper :wink:
If it was me personally, I would probably investigate getting a replacement bezel insert one but definitely keep the original. The blue is a little too faded for me.
i would replace the bezel but hang onto the original as well- have your cake and eat it!
ktmog6uk
marchingontogether!
I love the worn look, and when you're the only owner it makes it even more special.
I would not change it, but if you prefer the look of it, get a new one. Just make sure you keep the original...
A NOS insert wouldn't really match the rest of the watch, how about one a bit more evenly faded?
Or maybe add some variety with a black or a coke insert?
Wait for a used bezel insert on the web.
That would be less discoulored yet still have matching sabi.
leave it alone :wink:
Not sure this is a massive dilemma - Rolex will sell you a new one for less than £30, and you can swap them in and out as the mood takes you :?
Lovely looking 1675 by the way :thumbup:
You could always use it without bezel for the ULTIMATE Kurtz look! :mrgreen:
I'm not as think as you drunk I am.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
"the horror"......................"the horror" :D
cheers
mike :wink:
Ahh, is it easy to remove the bezel? I'd assumed it wasn't something I could do.Originally Posted by Seabadger
You can flip it off with a knife, using a bit of tape or paper to protect the case. I have two left hands and I've changed mine a few times without causing any major disasters.Ahh, is it easy to remove the bezel? I'd assumed it wasn't something I could do.
I'd swap it out for a NOS one, then keep the original safe to save it from getting 'wabi'd' beyond all hope.
There are a few good articles on the web that talk you through swapping a bezel. I've never done it , but it looks pretty straight forward.
Famous last words I know.....
I would keep it exactly as it is because IMO it looks great & something money can't buy, years of honest use. Putting a new bezel insert would ruin the patina which has taken many years to look like it does.....lovely.
I have a 1969 GMT. I love it. I would recommend buying a genuine vintage one (so you don't miss the patina). I was watching one on fleabay that went for £80 from a reputable specialist. Keeping the existing one (or indeed selling it) would offset some of the cost.
The bezel is worth more than a new one so what ever you do keep it. Personally I would try to find a nearly new one, however be careful of buying off the bay and there are quite a few fakes (even ones which have been aged)
As for changing it - simples - blunt knife to prize off the bezel ring. Remove washer. Then using just your thumbs push out the plastic ring. Then give everything a good clean - must have about 30 years + for "stuff" under that Bezel. Once clean insert the replace bezel - you will need something like the edge is a wooden table to ease the it in (but be careful). Refit the washer and then the bezel - it should push straight on.
Sit back and pat yourself of on the back.
Andy
PS is it a 1675 or 16750 (with quick date set?)
Whoever does not know how to hit the nail on the head should be asked not to hit it at all.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Thanks for all the replies. I didn't realise it would be relatively easy to change the insert, so I'll keep a look out for a used one that's not quite so faded but deffo keep the current one as well. I've noticed that there are quite a few fakes/replicas on eBay, just need to be careful!
It's a 1675, no quick date set (which I sometime wish it had!)
Cheers
Ian
I'm with him! :)
Not unless you prefer the look of new - if so put it in a box and keep it very safe - I prefer the pinkish look - father's looks great now with some fading and scratches.
It's just a matter of time...
I would leave it alone, has a lovely patina with all your own history in a hard working watch.
Cheers Mark
Wabi
Nice
I think it looks fantastic as it is! Unfortunately b\vintage Rolex is way out of my budget but hopefully someday . . . .:roll: :roll:
my 2 cents would be try a black insert they look awesome and if you live in london go to rolex st james square as they will change it while you wait and you ll get your old one back all done and sorted for apx £30, oh and keep your old pepsi safe ,lovely by the way the 1675, mines just off for a service estimate and then the service 4 months i reckon and yes the quickset would be handy
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