How to take apart a Rolex

Here you can see a watchmaker deconstruct and then reassemble a Rolex Submariner, in all it's intricate mechanical magic. Don’t try this at home.

http://www.esquire.com/blogs/mens-fashion/rolex-submariner-010215?click=feed

 

I've opened several Rolex cases myself just to check to authenticity of the movement. Even that is quite nerve wracking.

 

I have a fake Rolex and I can't even get the back off of it to change the battery.

 

I bought a Rorex in Tijuana once. It lasted about five years! I kept changing the batteries. At least they were honest in the spelling.

 

My fake Rolex lasted 5 days. It's a beautiful watch. I can't believe they didn't spend the extra $1 for a better movement

 

WOW... impressive! I know the proper tools help, but I could NEVER do that. I'm the worst with anything really small that requires fine motor skills... hell, I'm lucky to tie a balloon!!!

 

Good stuff. It doesn't show use of the special "keys" used to open the little bastards up. I invested in a full (Chinese-made) set years ago and use them on mine. Most of my other autos use adjustable spanners on the backs. I wouldn't advise opening these watches for most unless you're really into adjusting and maintaining them yourself. And, invest in a good gang auto winder too.

Bill

 

The tools are very expensive. A lot of guys use these balls to open the cases. I've never tried it myself, but it does look promising.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Blue-HORB-with-NO-Logo-Caseback-Opener-Ball-for-Rolex-Watch-/201234789318?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2eda8733c6

 

Thanks Joe. While I don't own a Rolex, I now understand why I get charged $150+ for each routine cleaning of my better watches.

 

Yeah, they didn't have those when I first got into watches. The new openers really are better in some ways because the old-school key-type wrenches had to be bought in several sizes.

Bill

 

That ball costs more than my Rolex.

 

Always said to myself why it costs so much to service a rolex and now I know why.

 

My mother in law got her rolex cleaned and it cost her $500 from the local jeweller. I wouldn't want to own a rolex.