Does anybody know a source of vintage Rolex parts?

[Flashharry]

I am about to have a Rolex 1803/8 serviced, I have been told that the handset needs replacing and the new Rolex handset is slightly different to the original in terms of hand length.

The watch is very precious to me as, it belonged to my father.

I want the watch to look perfect and was wondering if anybody knows of somewhere I might be able to source a NOS tritium yellow gold 1803 handset?

[Bluetinfloor]

I am about to have a Rolex 1803/8 serviced, I have been told that the handset needs replacing and the new Rolex handset is slightly different to the original in terms of hand length.

The watch is very precious to me as, it belonged to my father.

I want the watch to look perfect and was wondering if anybody knows of somewhere I might be able to source a NOS tritium yellow gold 1803 handset?

A WTB on here and VRF, VRF is stunningly expensive for sports model parts but shouldn't be too bad for a 1803 - I imagine someone in Europe will have a set.

[Haywood_Milton]

A WTB on here and VRF, VRF is stunningly expensive for sports model parts but shouldn't be too bad for a 1803 - I imagine someone in Europe will have a set.

This is good advice

[JasonM]

I'm not sure if this is an appropriate place to say it Neil, but I'm very sorry for your recent loss...

[groyn]

I've had one (out of one) good experience with these guys in Paris:

http://horlogerexpert.com/index.php

They trade on the bay as well:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/sthnetexpe...53.m1438.l2754

The owner is Jonathan Birn, who is, I am informed by SimonK here, well-respected. His email:

jbexpert@orange.fr

I think their prices are quite high, but if they've got the parts you want, it may be worth it for you. They also charge a lot for postage, but items are sent by Coliposte (French service, slow). Still, my trio of used Tropic 19 Superdomes arrived safe and sound.

[walkerwek1958]

It may be possible to get the original hands replated and relumed. Can`t beat that for originality, but I`ve found replating hands to be very hit and miss.

Paul

[Flashharry]

I'm not sure if this is an appropriate place to say it Neil, but I'm very sorry for your recent loss...

Thanks mate