A client sent in his fathers old Rolex calibre 1530. It’s running intermediately and badly needs a clean.Â
Dirty!
The autowinder bridge screws was loose in the movement!
This is probably the most dirty Rolex I have ever seen…
Here you can see the underside of the autowinder mechanism.
I can see that the barrel has been scraping against the barrel bridge.
The upper barrel arbor bridge is worn.
Here you can see I have soldered in a new bush.
Old mainspring.
After two cycles in the cleaning machine the parts are clean and the movement ready to be put back together.
Everything looks better now that it’s clean!
I see that the balance moves freely after fitting the balance jewels.
Here you can see the new bush after cleaning.
No more side shake in the barrel arbor.
Here you can see the gear train layout before fitting the train bridge.
The hands get some new compound that matches the dial.
Base movement goes back into the case looking 10 times better than before!
Watch now preforms great.
Autowinder bridge back together and ready to be fitted back onto the movement.
I’m happy how well this watch cleaned up.
Amazing how a little TLC can change a watch!;)
3 Responses to Service/repair: Rolex Oyster/perpetual calibre 1560
Mitka, fantastic work!
I couldn’t believe the amount of dirt inside! Should I be proud to be the owner of the ‘dirtiest rolex you have ever seen’?
I can confirm that the watch keeps time very well after having it back for more than 2 weeks now. The power reserve is excellent as well. I really love the old patina on the dial. I am a one very happy customer!! Seeing the hand glow for the first time in about 30 years makes me smile.
Thank you
Andrew
Hi Andrew,
Thanks for your kind words! Yes your watch was crowned the dirtiest Rolex and that deserves some kind of admiration;) I’m sure it will serve you many years to come. Yes the glowing hands always appeal to my inner child!!
Best regards,
Mitka
Excellent job man! I’m amazed that so much dirt could make it’s way into a Rolex! 😉