Hi all, May I ask is it hard to source an original bracelet and bezel for 1680 Red Mk IV? How much should I be expected to source them to factor in the price? As I read that it should be 9315 folded with 280 endlinks? I am being offered a head only with service bezel ( Rolex service done through), and with dome crystal. Since I am very new to Vintage Sub, any help is appreciated, pix will follow soon. Harry
What did seller tell you about it? I'd want to know if hands were relumed or color matched, crystal is not correct with missing cyclops and some collectors prefer that look. Can't really tell case condition without more pics of lugs and case sides.
I guess you are talking about a bezel insert, since you already have the bezel. They are readily available on the secondary market, you can search watchrecon to see prices. As you can guess, there will be a range depending on condition of the insert, condition of the pearl, fading, etc. But you should budget somewhere in the range of $2k USD to get something acceptable, give or take. In addition to a folded 9315, you can use the updated 93150, which is probably a bit easier to find in good condition. You didn't say the year of your 1680, so we can't tell you which one would be period-correct. It's really a matter of taste, but bracelets are often changed out, and I personally don't think it's such a big deal. In fact, I have a relatively small wrist and don't really like the flip-lock so much, so I have sometimes worn vintage Subs on a 78360 bracelet. The important thing is to make sure you get the right end-links. However, most importantly, as often emphasized on OF in the past ... don't source these parts, that's too fancy and expensive. Just buy them on eBay or in the classified section of a collector's forum.
Agree with advice on insert and bracelet. That said, you mentioned being new to vintage Subs. Are you satisfied from pics posted with the condition and details on case, dial and hands or have you seen it in person?