Timepiece Tales

Welcome to Timepiece Tales, a blog dedicated to the art and craftsmanship of watches. From vintage timepieces to modern masterpieces, we cover it all. Join us as we explore the rich history and technical innovations of some of the world's most iconic brands and delve into the stories behind the watches that have captured our hearts. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a watch enthusiast just starting out, we hope you find something here to pique your interest and inspire your own timepiece tales.

All I want for Christmas is a Frankenstein Rolex!

Rolex! If you're a fan of this iconic brand, you know that there are countless models to choose from, each with its unique style and features.

And while it's easy to get caught up in the search for the "perfect" watch, the truth is that there is no such thing as a perfect Rolex model. After all, what makes a watch perfect for one person might not be the same for someone else. I have owned a few Rolexes throughout my life and loved each one. To be more accurate, I loved one or two things about each one of them, and I have always wondered if I had the money, would I actually commission a Frankenstein?

 Modifying a Rolex watch, also known as "franking," refers to the practice of altering or customizing a Rolex watch in some way. This can include changing the watch's appearance, adding or replacing components, or making other modifications. Before I share with you (based on first-hand experience) what would constitute a perfect Rolex to me, here are a few potential pros and cons of modified Rolex watches:

 Pros:

1. Customization: One of the main advantages of modifying a Rolex watch is the ability to personalize and customize the appearance and functionality of the watch to your preferences.
2. Improved performance: Depending on the modifications being made, a modified Rolex watch might offer improved performance or functionality compared to the original. For example, a modified Rolex watch might have a more accurate movement or a different type of bezel.
3. Increased value: Some modifications, particularly those that are rare or hard to find, can actually increase the value of a Rolex watch.

 Cons:

1. Loss of authenticity: Modifying a Rolex watch can affect its authenticity and originality, potentially impacting its value.
2. Quality concerns: Depending on the modification, the quality and reliability of a modified Rolex watch might be lower than that of an unmodified one.
3. Warranty issues: Modifying a Rolex watch can void the manufacturer's warranty, which means that if something goes wrong with the watch, you might have to pay for any repairs out of pocket.

 My Precious 

 After owning a few watches - I would like to attempt to build this Frankenstein. My humble opinion is based on my daily use, practicality, looks, and emotional connections. 

 Case: Yacht-Master

 30 years to build and an instant success for Rolex; this case was rumored to be the Sub replacement, but it was so good they decided to make it its own line. The case has a snug fit with crown guards, is light and durable, and has luscious curves and lug-to-lug distance.

 Movement: GMT

 Made for pilots and frequent travelers, any pick of the various GMT movements is the clear winner for me. The Rolex GMT movement is highly versatile, reliable, and well-suited for travelers and others who need to keep track of time in multiple locations. Its ability to display two time zones simultaneously makes it an ideal choice for anyone who needs to stay connected to various time zones. The cherry on top is the hour hacking mechanism.

 Sapphire Crystal: Milgauss 

 A process so hard to achieve then Rolex didn't even bother to patent it. 

The green color of the crystal is achieved through a unique process that involves coating the sapphire glass with a thin layer of chromium oxide. This layer absorbs specific wavelengths of light, which gives the crystal its distinctive green color.

 Dial and hand: Sub with a touch of Milgauss 

The Mercedes hand is used on the Rolex Submariner. It is named after the Mercedes-Benz company, known for its distinctive three-pointed star logos. The hand is characterized by a broad, arrow-shaped tip and a narrow stem, and it is often used to mark the hours on the watch dial.

On a black dial, it provides a high-contrast background for the hands, which makes them easy to read and highly visible. To add more contrast - I would like to pick the Milgauss seconds hand. The orange color thunder-shaped second hand is a distinctive feature of the Milgauss. It helps make the watch more visible and easily read in various lighting conditions.

 Bracelet: Sea-Dweller 

 The Sea-Dweller bracelet and clasp are the most versatile oyster bracelets out there. One of the key features of the Sea-Dweller is its Glidelock clasp, which is designed to allow the wearer to finely adjust the bracelet's length. This feature is especially useful on hot days or after physical activity, when the wrist may expand and need more room (anyone else gaining some holiday weight, or is it just me?). Additionally, the Sea-Dweller has a Fliplock extension that allows the wearer to add up to 26mm to the bracelet's length, allowing the watch to be worn over the sleeve of a diving suit. The extension is visible on the Sea-Dweller because it protrudes from the clasp, longer than an ordinary link in the bracelet. It can be removed if the owner does not need or want this feature. The Sea-Dweller's clasp also has a safety bracket and rocker to prevent accidental opening while still being easy to operate. The craftsmanship of the Sea-Dweller is impressive, with the bracelet and clasp featuring a combination of polished and satin-finished surfaces. The case also features this combination of finishes, further distinguishing the watch.

 In conclusion

 Franking a Rolex is a process in which a watch is modified or customized in some way, often by adding or replacing specific components or features. While franking a Rolex can be a personal expression of style or a way to customize a watch to meet specific needs, it is important to be aware that franking a Rolex can also potentially impact the value and authenticity of the watch. Suppose a Rolex is altered in a way that is not in line with the manufacturer's standards or negatively affects the watch's performance or reliability. In that case, it may be less desirable to collectors or buyers and worth less than an unmodified Rolex. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of franking a Rolex before making any modifications to the watch.

Ultimately, whether or not modifying a Rolex watch is a good idea depends on your preferences and the specific modifications being made. It's essential to research and carefully consider the potential pros and cons before making any changes to your Rolex watch.

PS: Any photoshop enthusiasts out there that can help me put this Frankenstein together, at least on paper? I am sure Gerald Genta would be rolling in his grave if he ever heard about this- BUT worth a try, no?

Happy holiday folks! 

By: IG