Accidental Collector

I inherited the Rolex a few years ago from my uncle. Right before the pandemic, I took the watch to Rolex, and they refused to service it because they had changed their policy on servicing watches with three or more non-Rolex parts. My uncle was a merchant marine and bought the watch new in the 70s, I'm sure it's legit. The watch had water damage, and the bracelet is pretty stretched. It still runs, but it needs a tune-up. If anyone can recommend a reputable watchmaker (NYC or NJ) who knows their way around a Rolex, I'd appreciate it. I'd also like to get my father's Omega Seamaster cleaned up and tuned. It seems like I've got big-name vintage watches covered. Everything else you see was a gift. I enjoy wearing all the watches in the box. I plan on adding to my collection more intentionally. Now I just have to decide on what to get. 

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It didn't take you very long to find out what a bunch of douche bags Rolex has become.  The Omega dealer sent my wifes Seamaster which leaked fresh water in to Secaucus, NJ but they sent it on to Switzerland due to a lack of older parts in the US.  I am also looking for a good watch maker in NJ(I'm in Bridgewater).

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Grand Central Watch are real pros, but they don't come cheap.  However, you are dealing with the best in NYC.

Located in: Grand Central Terminal

Address: Grand Central Terminal Between Track 38 & 39, New York, NY 10017

If I collected luxury watches, that will be where I would go.

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Have to agree with @TimexBadger. I have heard nothing but good things about Grand Central Watch. You are in good company if you are seeking help with the next one!  

Regarding the Air King 5500, did the AD crack open the case? The RSC would not care about an aftermarket bracelet, so the only explanation for them to return it is for a suspect movement, or they simply did not know better given the age. Best case scenario, your uncle brought it to a local repair shop who used non-Rolex parts and now Rolex will not touch it and the AD does not want to be stuck in the middle. You’re doing the right thing in having a third party take a look and give you an honest assessment. Assuming it is genuine, I would have them replace any non-genuine parts with real ones so you will not run into that going forward.  

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AllTheWatches

Have to agree with @TimexBadger. I have heard nothing but good things about Grand Central Watch. You are in good company if you are seeking help with the next one!  

Regarding the Air King 5500, did the AD crack open the case? The RSC would not care about an aftermarket bracelet, so the only explanation for them to return it is for a suspect movement, or they simply did not know better given the age. Best case scenario, your uncle brought it to a local repair shop who used non-Rolex parts and now Rolex will not touch it and the AD does not want to be stuck in the middle. You’re doing the right thing in having a third party take a look and give you an honest assessment. Assuming it is genuine, I would have them replace any non-genuine parts with real ones so you will not run into that going forward.  

Yes, I believe it was non-authorized parts in the watch. Thanks for the suggestions. 

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The shop is actually called Central Watch

Same location

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPsS_XMIk78

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Cool. I'll give these guys a try.