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Advice on Tightening and Refurbishment of a 7836/0

  1. trackpad Feb 8, 2017

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    I have a 7836/0 that is a little too loose for my liking, and has a link or two with dents that aren't terrible, but I don't like how they catch the light and, well, I know they are there!

    In search of someone experienced in restoring these, the only name I ran into was that of Michael Young in Hong Kong (Classic Watch Repair Ltd.) I've since emailed a few times with Michael, it seems that for somewhere in the ballpark of $500 USD I can get two links changed (with original Rolex parts) and the whole bracelet tightened and very lightly polished.

    Before going forward I have two questions.

    1) From the perspective of someone who wouldn't dream of "refurbishing" a vintage watch with new hands, dial – or even crown if I can help it,...is this a bad idea? I'm a purist. But I also love my folded link, and want to see it back in good form. (i.e. I don't want to see my skin between the links!)

    2) Anyone know of other people or shops offering this service? Possibly in or closer to Europe.

    Thanks.
     
  2. adam78 Adam @ ΩF Staff Member Feb 8, 2017

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    I have used Michael Young quite a few times in the past for bracelet refunishment, and I've found that he is one of the best--also for case polishing if you ever have to have that done. I really don't know of anybody who does comparable work on bracelets in the US or Europe.
     
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  3. LaurentBxl Feb 9, 2017

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    Michael seems to be the one who has consistent positive feedback regarding bracelet refurbishement.
    I keep him in mind just in case i need it, the only thing i don't like is shipping the watch or bracelet so far from home....
     
  4. brunik Feb 9, 2017

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    Michael is maybe the best in the world doing that, but i´m using one company in Spain that does similar works...they are specialised in laser welding and restoring jewels

    I´m in Spain so i don´t have worries with shipping and customs.

    Where you located? If you want i can send you some examples by PM.
     
  5. trackpad Feb 9, 2017

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    @brunik I am in Dubai. But based on all the feedback so far I will go with my gut and initial research and just ship it to HK. Thanks for the offer and I will ping you in the future should I need that sort of work.

    No one has addressed my second question, which leads me to conclude I probably shouldn't sweat it. :)
     
  6. brunik Feb 9, 2017

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    No worries, when you want!
     
  7. omitohud Feb 9, 2017

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    MY is solid. I've had a couple bracelets refurbished by him and quite happy with the result. I wouldn't mind refurbished bracelet to wear, because otherwise you might as well throw them away due to broken or stretched issues. I think there is a company in the US doing similar work but the price is more than double what MY charges. Good luck.
     
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  8. ttay007 Dec 25, 2021

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    Repairing/tightening a bracelet is not like having a vintage watch case polished or, often seen, over polished (in my opinion & I've been collecting vintage Rolex, Tudor & Omega for 20+). I too like the original bracelet on the original watch and have heard nothing but great reviews on Michael Young who, for many years, was the only person w/any skill to work on bracelets. I would just insure it, & have not problem shipping it to & from HK from the US or whereever. That said, I would speak to him and specifically ask if communist China's take over of HK has changed anything, as it's a relatively recent event & the majority of MY's reviews (certainly mine) are pre-Beijing's authoritarian & total communist takeover of the once free & democratic Hong Kong. That would be my biggest reservation & it's no small one either. Good luck.
     
  9. CLA05 Dec 26, 2021

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    I know you mentioned Europe but I’ve had very, very great experiences with Rolliworks
     
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  10. Burr Dec 26, 2021

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    +1 to rolliworks, they are great and the only recommended shop in the Bay Area I could find when it came to some laser repairs on a steel bracelet. They did an awesome job with my vintage oyster bracelet, they can’t also remove one the permanent links to make your clasp more center if your wrist on the smaller side
     
  11. vibe Dec 28, 2021

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    Roliworks did a 7835 and a rivet oyster for me. Each was about $500 and the work was flawless