Rolex 15200-Caseback finish oxidation

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Anto_Alex

·Mar 24, 2025

Dear all.
I have owned this Rolex since I was a child, but it has been stored for more than 25 years.
This is the reason why I have never removed the sticker 😀
I started wearing it only a couple of week ago and yesterday I noticed this defect on the case back (On the inclined part with a mirror finish).
What could it be due to? I would like to prevent the issue from spreading. Do you have any advice on how to restore the finish (is it worth it)? Thanks a lot to everyone!

 

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Dan S

·Mar 24, 2025

Hard to tell from the photos, but it looks like some kind of residue to me. Did you try wiping it off with an alcohol wipe?

 

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Anto_Alex

·Mar 24, 2025

mmm no, I didn’t want to take the risk not knowing suitable products..

 

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Anto_Alex

·Mar 24, 2025

To the touch, it is perfectly smooth.

 

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Dan S

·Mar 24, 2025

Does the sticker extend all the way to the edge? Or is that discoloration on a part of the case not covered by the sticker. Based on the cryptic information you are providing I’m guessing there is some damage to and old sticker covering the metal. Note that the sticker is not meant to be left on the watch after sale.

 

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Evitzee

·Mar 24, 2025

If it has been stored for 25 years the movement is bone dry and needs a thorough service. I'd remove that sticker pronto, alcohol probably won't cut it, you might need Goo-Gone or similar remover. That will clear the back up, it looks there is a clear sticker that was put on before the green sticker and that is the 'damage' you are seeing.

 

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Anto_Alex

·Mar 24, 2025

Thank you both so much. Now I understand. On the slanted part, there’s another film that after all this time is completely bonded to the case back. Maybe it’s best to have it serviced and ask the service center to clean the case back from the stickers.