The question of whether Rolex polishes fluted bezels is a frequent topic of discussion among watch enthusiasts, particularly on forums like www.rolexforums.com. The answer, however, isn't a simple yes or no. It's nuanced, depending on the context, the specific watch model, and the service history. Understanding the complexities surrounding bezel finishing, polishing, and replacement is crucial for anyone considering buying, selling, or servicing a Rolex.
Often, when browsing pre-owned Rolex watches, particularly those with gold components like the Day-Date (DD) or Submariner, prospective buyers notice subtle discrepancies in the finishing. A common observation is a slight beveling or unusual polishing on the sides of the bracelet links, a characteristic rarely, if ever, present on a brand-new watch from the factory. This leads to questions about authenticity and the watch's service history. Similar observations are made regarding fluted bezels, leading many to wonder if Rolex itself performs such polishing during service.
The Factory Finish: A Matter of Precision
Rolex is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail. The factory finish on a Rolex, whether it's a polished center link, brushed outer links, or a fluted bezel, is precisely controlled. Each surface is treated to achieve a specific aesthetic and tactile experience. The fluted bezel, for example, is not simply a grooved surface. The flutes themselves have a specific depth, width, and sharpness, contributing to the iconic look and feel of the watch. The edges of the bezel are also carefully finished, typically with a very subtle, almost imperceptible chamfer.
Any significant deviation from this factory finish—excessive polishing, uneven surfaces, or altered angles—raises questions about the watch's history. While some minor variations might occur due to normal wear and tear, drastic changes are unlikely to be the result of a standard Rolex service.
Rolex Service and Polishing:
Rolex's official service centers are highly skilled in restoring Rolex watches to their original glory. However, their approach to polishing is conservative and focused on preserving the integrity of the original finish. They are unlikely to polish a fluted bezel unless absolutely necessary to correct a significant imperfection, such as a deep scratch or dent. Even then, the goal would be to minimize the amount of material removed and to match the original factory finish as closely as possible.
The polishing of bracelet links, on the other hand, is a more complex issue. While Rolex generally avoids excessive polishing during service, it's more common to see some degree of polishing on the bracelet links, particularly on older watches. This is often due to the accumulation of scratches and abrasions over time. The service process might involve careful polishing to remove these imperfections and restore a smoother surface. However, this polishing is usually subtle and aimed at blending imperfections, not creating a noticeable bevel.
The presence of a pronounced bevel on the bracelet links, as often observed in pre-owned watches, strongly suggests aftermarket work, either by an independent watchmaker or a less scrupulous seller attempting to enhance the appearance of the watch. This raises concerns about the watch's overall condition and potentially its authenticity.
Rolex Aftermarket Bezel: A World of Possibilities and Pitfalls
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