Rolex Sea Dweller - Watch Repair

Rolex Sea Dweller - Watch Repair

Recently a really loved Rolex Sea Dweller came in for a repair. It was in desperate trouble, it hadn’t been serviced in well over 10 years and was struggling to run.

This Rolex came in with more problems than you can poke a stick at. The amplitude was well below 200 degrees, the rotor post was incredibly worn and numerous parts needed replacing. After a conversation with the client we came up with a plan. Aesthetically we were going to leave the case, bezel and glass to preserve its originality. The dial and hands were fine so no stress there but the movement needed work.

Whenever a service is undertaken the following tasks are completed.

PRELIMINARY CHECKS

  • Bracelet removal, open the case

  • Check of the workings using testing devices

  • Check of the functions of the movement, visual inspection for damage or wear and fault check

  • Estimate of cost

CASE AND BAND

  • Complete case dismantling

  • Case and bracelet cleaning prior to polishing and refinishing

  • Case and band polished/ refinished back to factory specifications

  • All gaskets replaced

MOVEMENT MAINTENANCE

  • Dismantling of all components

  • Inspection of components

  • Cleaning of movement parts

  • Replacement of the worn parts

  • Assembling, lubrication of the movement components

  • Regulation of the watch

  • Check of the functions of the movement

  • Reassembly of the case

  • Locking of the case back

WATCH QC OPERATIONS

  • Water-resistance check according to model specifications

  • Hour and date setting

  • Final check of the movement with power reserve check

  • Timing monitored over one week

  • Bracelet refitting with replacement of spring bars

  • Final check of band

  • Final inspection

A concern was the wear on the rotor post and the wear on the jewels for the rotor post. It’s not uncommon to see this repair being left or done incorrectly. It is important to get the correct punch to allow the rivet to be seated correctly onto the rotor, because of the weight of the rotor you need this to be on tight. The second thing to look out for is wear on the jewels, the jewels should be changed but more often than not they are missed. While you can get away with it, the small amount of excess wear can lead to the rotor post being replaced sooner rather than later. I have attached a video of the worn rotor post showing the play. What you can see around the edge of the movement are marks from where the rotor is rubbing on the plates.

If you have a vintage Rolex that is in need of some TLC shoot me an email repairs@obrhorology.com.au or give me a call on 0423451991.

Rolex watch repairOliver Broos RevittOBR Horologyrolex, watch repair