Ladies DateJust Franken

[superlative]

I would like to build a ladies DateJust Franken. My plan is to use all gen parts except for the movement and hands, which would be donated from a rep ladies DateJust. Has anybody ever done this? Are there any problems associated with it?

[automatico]

I made one up but used a replica case and dial. I started with a swisseta 2671 powered tutone replica and fitted a genuine 18k bezel with aftmkt sapphire crystal/gasket, aftmkt case tube/genuine crown, along with an aftmkt Italy made ss/14k jubilee bracelet with heavy center links using the replica clasp.

It went together easily and looks great. The case I used was made to oem specs so the crystal and case tube fit just fine.

total cost:

new replica watch...$200

crystal/gasket...$35

new case tube/used crown...$50

genuine bezel...$125

Italy ss/14k jubilee...$375 (now $500 thanks to gold prices)

springbars, gaskets etc...$20

My wife has owned two genuine lady rolex watches (both purchased new) and the replica has held up better than either genuine watch. The first genuine rolex (6916 opd) was nothing but trouble from day 1....absolute junk. The next one (tutone no date sapphire model) was a little better...but not much.

Genuine rolex = No Parts For You.

[HauteHippie]

Finding parts may be a bit challenging for ladies models. Also I wonder how you'll fit the ETA movement in the gen case. On the men's side a custom movement ring is usually used. I've never seen one for a woman's case.

[freddy333]

Rep DJ cases are very close to the gens. So, if buying a gen is out of the question, I would just buy a rep & swap the crown/tube for gen parts to increase longevity.