Which vintage heirloom Rolex to buy?

Hi guys. I have the notion to buy a vintage Rolex(s) to restore and pass down to my children. I'd like to take my time doing research on different models but before I started I thought I would get some guidance from you all. My requirements are that 1. it cost $3000 or less. 2 that it not have radium. 3 that it be a simple enough design that I can restore it myself. In that regard I would say I'm an intermediate beginner. I can do a basic COA and i have changed a few balance Staffs. 4. I would prefer a non automatic but I'm flexible on that. 5. I prefer without a calendar for simplicity's sake but I am flexible on that as well. 5. Finally I would like something that has parts readily available and are not astronomical in price.

Just perusing eBay I have seen a couple of models that fit most of my criteria such as the Air king, and oyster precision. But I have no idea if these would be decent models to consider or not. One thing I have noticed on eBay is that quite a few of the sellers don't really describe much about the running condition of the watches. Some don't even say if they are running. Which seems to be pretty odd given the high price tags of these watches. I guess I could ask specific questions from the sellers and if I don't get answers then I would just move on. Can't imagine spending that kind of money and having it be a surprise whether or not the watch runs or the balance staff is broken.



Anyways thoughts anyone might have would be appreciated. Thank you.

Thanks for the quick reply. The only size criterion I would have is that it not be on the large size as my arms are smaller. And I am fine with the smaller vintage watches. Does the oyster precision meet some of my other criteria such as finding parts? Are there any watches you would recommend if I included in the criteria an automatic watch or a calendar? I've seen lots of the date just rolexes for sale. And not too take advantage of your generosity but are there places I should check other than eBay?

Get a datejust, you will be able to find a good 1603 for your price range as for where to buy if you don't have any experience of what you are looking at pay a premium and buy from a trusted dealer, or look in the private sales page on this forum

I wanted to thank you all for your valuable input. This will be very helpful to get me started in my search for that perfect first Rolex. Have a great day.