Rolex Oyster Imperial Amateur Restoration

Jocke - Bad Santa's post chronicles his 'amateur' restoration of a vintage Rolex Oyster Imperial, offering a fascinating step-by-step visual guide to bringing a well-worn timepiece back to life. This detailed account provides valuable insights into the process of case refinishing and the care involved in preserving a classic watch's integrity.

Rolex Oyster Imperial

Here is how it looks when I got it.

 Some dings and marks all over it.

Nice crown but well used.

So I start to open it up.

The movement is in great condition.

Here we go a little closer.

The dial is in good condition too.

The case have lived a hard life.

So I have to do some work with it.

So here is some equippment.

So I start to grind the case.

The backside need some work, it´s not my name engraved.

So I have to pull out some serious tools here. LOL

Don´t call me a sissy. LOL

The first step is over.

Now I pull out this little nice sandpaper sponge.

And the final work.

So now to my "homemade" polishing machine.

I will give the case some polishing.

So it will shine..

Now I have done some polishing but I will not get rid of all marks. If I try that, the case will not looks nice.

Now I have to mask the bezel when I will brush the lugs with the sponge.

Now it start looks real good in my opinion.

So a new crystal, a strap and a clasp will do it.

Then the final work, just enjoy.

I hope you find this tour interesting.