Beware the Frankenwatch!

[GMF]

I just got an e-mail tip about an Oysterquartz on ebay. I wouldn't touch this watch with a ten foot pole.



This watch is an amalgam of parts from three different models and never left Rolex Geneva like this. The bracelet is from a 1630 Oyster Perpetual Datejust. If the crown is original, then this is a 17014 that has had a 17013 YG bezel and a 1630 bracelet put on. If the crown is not original, then this is a 17013 with a 17014 crown and a 1630 bracelet. I suspect the latter because of the YG hands and markers on the dial. However, the date wheel is white and it should be gold for a 17013, which could indicate that this is not the original dial and the watch is a 17014. Too bad we can't see the model number engraved on the back. Either way this is a Frankenwatch and not worth nearly as much as a complete and accurate OQ of that vintage.

[gmt16750]

Good call GMF - it's easy to see how someone could miss those details and end up with a watch thats not what it seems. I noticed an OQ on the 'bay that was being sold by a seller with v.good feedback and was sold with 'original box and papers' but if you enlarged the photo it showed papers for an Oyster perpetual - not good IMO.

[mike]

Thanks for the heads up. That's the great thing about the interchange of information on forums like these!

[Sam]

Thanks for the tips. It's ever so easy to get screwed on eBay.

[GMF]

The real irony is that this 1630 replacement bracelet was more expensive than a 17013 bracelet because it has more gold in it! The 17013 bracelet center links are SS; only the outer two narrow links are gold.

[bruces]

Interesting Gary. Thanks!

[mamas]

Thanks for the info garry.. it is good to have experts as yourslef around, as i could see how someone unsuspecting could be conned by this 'creation'
mamas