Restoring a Vintage Rolex Explorer: A Journey of Love and Preservation

🕰️The vintage Rolex Explorer being restored has immense sentimental value and holds a special place in the heart of the owner.

💧Severe water damage to the watch caused it to stop working. The owner's attempts to have it repaired by Rolex were unsuccessful.

🔨The restoration process involves disassembling the watch and carefully cleaning off the rust and debris caused by the water damage.

💰The vintage Rolex Explorer has both monetary value and sentimental value. The minimum value is estimated to be around $20,000.

⏰Restoring the watch requires replacing certain parts, such as the rusted center wheel, but the goal is to retain as much of the original watch as possible.

Why couldn't Rolex repair the watch?

—Rolex declined to repair the watch due to the severe water damage it had suffered. They may not have had the necessary expertise or tools for such extensive restoration.

What is the estimated value of the vintage Rolex Explorer?

—The minimum estimated value of the watch is around $20,000, although it could be worth more due to its special version and sentimental value.

Will the watch be completely restored?

—While some parts, such as the rusted center wheel, will need to be replaced, the goal is to preserve as much of the original watch as possible to retain its sentimental value.

How did the water damage occur?

—The watch owner wore the watch to the beach without screwing down the crown properly. Seawater entered the watch, causing the severe damage.

Why is this watch special?

—This vintage Rolex Explorer holds immense sentimental value as it belonged to the owner's father, who wore it every day. It represents a cherished memory and connection to her father.

00:00Introduction and background story of the vintage Rolex Explorer watch that is being restored.

03:10The owner's attempt to have the watch repaired by Rolex and why it was unsuccessful.

06:08The initial assessment of the watch's condition and the extent of the water damage.

11:35Disassembling the watch and discovering the rusted parts that need to be replaced.

13:59Explaining the importance of retaining as much of the original watch as possible during the restoration process.