DrD 0 Posted September 20, 2020 My Gramps gave me his original Explorer 1 circa 1960s (has yellow numbers) for high school graduation back in 1991. Ive never worn it. I keep it in a safety deposit box at the bank. It needs a good overhaul to make sure it lasts. Anyone have recommendations? Dealer cost is pretty steep, not that it isn't worth it for professional clean and overhaul. A few years ago they quoted me 500$ I know there have been folks on the boards who service watches but is anyone up to this challenge? Thank you all for any advice. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Flinnt 2,009 Posted September 20, 2020 I’ve serviced a few ETA based reps now. Send it on over. But seriously...so precious to you that you keep it in a bank vault...yet not worth spending $500 on to bring it back to full life??? 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BravoDelta 22,282 Posted September 20, 2020 How bout a picture Doc? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
NCRich 13,714 Posted September 20, 2020 There are many places, but I would not suggest the Rolex service center. There are reputable watchmakers that can do the task without removing the patina. 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
GenTLe 1,485 Posted September 20, 2020 It depends where you are. It's not that easy to find a really reputable watch tech. And I'd avoid Rolex as they'll probably replace a bunch of stuff making it not so valuable... I have a friend of mine who was a Rolex certified tech for an official AD (for 10 years) until 2 years ago when he opened his own shop. I've seen him doing from old Rollies to Zenith El Primero, to MoonWatches and also old V&C. For an explorer he would quote you not less than 300/350€ anyway... He is this guy: https://www.instagram.com/federicigioielleria/ (the other guy working there is the one that does jewelry, hence the jewels in the pictures), also here: https://www.federicigioielleria.com/ 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
paccbet 7,176 Posted September 20, 2020 If you are in Canada, Ashton Tracy is your man https://ashtontracy.ca/ Btw $500 is still reasonable for an overhaul 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites