IMO independent watchmakers are the only possible choice when servicing a Vintage Rolex.

I would go to Rolex only for modern ones, unless you have a long time and privileged relationship with the specific RSC.

 

Wow!

I thought this thread was inactive. I guess I was not receiving email notifications like I normally would when folks reply.

Anyway, yes, I have asked for it back, but only after I had asked a few times if the service could be complete without messing with the hands, and the reply was always the same: absolutely not. They would not do the service and leave the hands as is. I must say, I respect their integrity and transparency.

For now, I am going to have it serviced at a place in Glenview (a suburb of Chicago.) They did a great job on my '69 Speedy, so I trust them with full confidence.

 

A close escape for you indeed. It would however have been interesting to see a 1016 with a white gold surround service dial. Nice watch you have! Wear in good health.