Rolex repairs

[e21Mark]

I am looking to have my watch cleaned and serviced but am unsure who to use or what the likely cost will be? I spoke with a local watch shop and they wanted a considerable sum to just give me an estimate.

I am also looking to replace the strap but want something of a good quality. I'd like a stainless bracelet type but the cost is prohibitive, so a decent leather strap makes more sense.

I guess I would just like some advice.

[e21Mark]

GC8 said:

Does it work properly and keep reasonable time? If so they it may only need a service. Parts are an issue but older movements are affected less, I think.

Joe (Variomatic on here) would be a good place to start.

With regards to the bracelet: I might be tempted to use a reasonable quality copy if I was you. The original 19mm Oyster bracelet isn't the substantial piece of engineering that you might expect and some of the copies are more than passable. I have been meaning to buy one myself to preserve my original un-stretched bracelet...

Hi, yes it appears to keep time with acceptable accuracy. I would just like it properly cleaned really and I'll find Joe and send him a message. A copy bracelet would be fine. I'm assuming eBay would be the most likely source? That said, if I could find a used bracelet I would be happy to pay a reasonable cost. My local repairer quoted around £850 minimum though and that's more than I would pay.