Welcome indeed. RWG is perhaps the BEST place for Rolex Franken's, especially Vintage. I am sure we all look forward to any toys you might have to share.
Cheers,
I have all the parts to build a a 1680 with ALL GEN parts except the mid-case is Yuki.
I fail to start the project, because 1.) The 1603 with serviced donor movement is cool, and sanding the calendar ring (pie-pan) makes me hesitate. and 2.) Doing the math I would be pushing $2100 HEAD ONLY.
I am tempted to cut the dial feet off the gen dial, and use a Yuki -ETA- Conversion and power it with a 2846.
Well said Freddy333. I agree with running the gauntlet so to speak over there. My only point is, to Bob it probably was 'just a watch', and when the original bracelet died, and it was replaced with the current one, he/Bob probably could care less. The thought of resale value never entered his mind then. Considering the watch had no box or papers either, attacking it for a replacement bracelet just seemed like overkill.
Never had a problem with them either. Especially the "fixed" 2x reduction GMT hand versions. The non-settable ones. These work great for the basic GMTs with rotatable bezels.
You want a Tropic 21.
You search for Gens on eBay, or buy an aftermarket from Clarks.
I might have a DW crystal that came with that watch you have. Here is one for $12.00
http://cgi.ebay.com/Crystal-Ref-25-21-Tropic-21-Rolex-NEW-/250735369601
Wow, that is incredible. Clearly the VRF guys fail to grasp the concept that parts wear out, and replacement parts change over time. Combine that with the fact to some people it is 'just a freaking watch', and as long as it can be attached to the wrist-- care very little about the subtleties of a bracelet or clasp.
Just finished reading all the Q&A, and checking out Feedback and Bidders as well.
Two things stand out:
1.) Bidder a****e has their feedback marked (private). Could this be "Rolex" or a corporate interest?
2.) While I buy his story. Looking through his feedback, he is a "woodworker" now. It was found in a sock drawer. He has also sold odd things like a Zippo. Could you imagine if he found this watch in a piece of furniture he was restoring? He is a very articulate, tech savvy, 81 yr old.
Over @ $66,100
Well to "Polish" the shiny bits and remove scratches, then Cape Cod. If I read your post correctly it sounds like you are asking about everyday cleaning?
For every day cleaning of my water resistant watches, I just use warm water and Dawn dish soap, and polish with the bulk micro-fiber cloths available at Costco. (Actually half the time, I skip the water and just use the micro-fiber).
I now have a professional grade ultrasonic for the occasional deep clean of a bracelet or 'empty' case.
I used the following items:
1 - Scratch Brush from Ofrei. (I suppose an ink eraser will do instead)
1000 grit sandpaper for the really bad areas
Ofrei "Omega Titanium Refinishing Pad" aka Scotch Bright pad
Blue Painters tape
Dish Detergent (Dawn) and Water for final washes.
Gently and evenly with the grain, simply rub out the scratches.