Rolex Submariner Kermit full service and repair

This Rolex Kermit came into the workshop having been worn since 2011 without service. It had finally come to a halt after years of use without any maintenance.

Rolex watches are so well made that they will often keep going and keeping good time without regular servicing for many years. This often causes the owner to neglect regular maintenance. This however is a very bad idea as the wear inside the movement greatly increases without proper lubrication. This was definitely the case here.

The watch also shows some wear to the bracelet but nothing out of the ordinary.

The clasp is dirty, it will definitely benefit from an ultrasonic cleaning.

When we opened the case we realised the extent of the problem. The rotor bearing had worn excessively and come into contact with the surface of the movement. The rotor had ground on the top of the movement so much that it had removed the rhodium plating and worn the movement away. The rhodium and brass filings had blocked up the movement. The watch had quite literally ground itself to a halt. This was going to be a major repair.

Here is the watch alongside a bluesy Submariner of a similar age which has been properly maintained. This is the reason that regular watch servicing is essential if you own a mechanical watch.

We continue stripping the watch. The black dust seen here has not entered the movement from outside the case, the watch was fully water-tight. It is a result of the movement wearing due to lack of lubrication.

Above we can see the failed rotor bearing and more black dust.

The movement has been through our cleaning machine for an initial clean before complete disassembly as per Rolex factory procedure. It is looking better already. The disassembly and examination will now continue. So far a new mainspring and cannon pinion will be required.

The main plate is remarkably, still in excellent condition. After another pass through the cleaning machine it looks like brand new. A testament to the build quality of the 3135 movement. In my opinion this calibre is one of the best watch movements ever made.

Here the worn movement plates are shown alongside the replacements. All parts are genuine Rolex, as are the mainspring and cannon pinion. We also required a new clutch wheel and winding pinion. Again genuine Rolex parts were sourced and fitted.

The movement service progresses. The new parts and several cleanings have the movement looking like new again. The watch is now running so a test is finally possible.

The watch is running strong with a good amplitude. It requires some regulation but is much improved already, even before fine tuning.

Back in the case and it is looking much better. The seals are brand new and the case has been freshly cleaned too.

A 297 degree amplitude is a great result for this service. A watch balance is isochronous so it will keep time no matter the amplitude, however in practice the timekeeping is best when the amplitude is above 270 degrees. At this point any slight positional or poising errors will be minimised. For this reason we always aim for a minimum amplitude of 270 degrees. To achieve 297 degrees with a watch showing this level of wear when it came to us is fantastic.

The watch is reunited with the freshly cleaned and refinished case and bracelet. It is then tested for a week in all positions and states of wind before being returned to the owner with a 2 year warranty.

The cost of our Rolex servicing is £395. Any parts required are charged at cost price only. If you would like to enquire about a Rolex service or repair please contact us using the contact us page.