Rolex Datejust 16030 Smooth Bezel?

[Big Dazza]

So I am just about to plunge for a Rolex 16030 but want to swap the bezel for a smooth type. Couple of questions:

 

1. Where is the best place to buy a gen smooth bezel surround and for the best price?

2. Are the gen smooth bezels white gold or stainless?

3. Are they easily swapped over? Could I do it myself?

 

Thanks

[tomhorn]

They are steel. Aftermarket bezels are readily available on the bay, or you can check with JMB who custom makes them. Assuming you aren't doing anything else but swapping the bezel, you can do it yourself if you are careful

Edited February 28, 2014 by tomhorn

[jerkstore]

Just like Tomhorn says, it's an easy swap. Just slide a razor blade under the existing bezel to loosen it, pop it off with a case knife, an press down the new bezel. I might take you give minutes.

Maybe check with the seller on which models this fits;

http://bit.ly/1mTSq4s

Good luck.

[AKTime]

Just be sure to put some tape on the top of the lugs where you will be working on loosening the bezel to help avoid scratches.

[Big Dazza]

Thanks for the great tips and advice. Would it be wrong to put an aftermarket oyster bracelet on a 16030 datejust or should I try source a genuine one fro a reasonable price? Somethings telling me not to mix rep parts with a gen Rolex

[tomhorn]

Well, since you are already going to be mixing rep parts with a gen Rolex by using a non-stock bezel for your 16030, going with an oyster bracelet will just put you a little further away from period correctness (the gen would have an engine turned bezel and jubilee bracelet).

 

Don't get me wrong, even with gen DateJusts people are always mixing in pieces and parts, so it's not out of the question to do. I'm not immune either, my franken 16014 has a 16234 dial in it.

 

You can certainly go with a rep bracelet if you want. Gen would be better obviously, but the cost benefit is up to you (and the difference would be substantial).

[Big Dazza]

Yea I have the original engine turned bezel and jubilee bracelet so I suppose it can always be returned to its original form

 

In my opinion the jubilee bracelet with smooth bezel makes it less flashy for daily wear

[kbh]

Are you guys sure that the gen bezel isn't WG? I always thought it was.

[kbh]

After looking around a bit, I think you guys are right about the SS, although it's strange that a lot of people are selling 18kWG smooth bezels on eBay and Amazon for around $400.