I appreciate why Rolex GMT-Master fans are so passionate about their watches and want to show that Rolex is the greatest watchmaker on the planet. They will tell you that the watch can withstand almost anything.
Some Rolex owners are proud to say that they never serviced their watch and have no problems with it. The reality is that they are unaware of the current condition of their Rolex GMT-Master. If the watch has not been examined and serviced by a certified Rolex watchmaker, the condition is unknown. The watch movement could be fine, or it could be off.
Rolex GMT-Master watches are robust and reliable, but that does not mean they don't need to be serviced, though the frequency is dependent on the owner lifestyle and how much the watch is used. Dust and residue within the watch can create friction and will increase the wear on the watch and it’s components. The lack of accuracy it causes may not be noticed if the Rolex user is not careful and observant. Water and shock are the worst enemy of every watch, therefore, how the watch is used impacts its longevity. A Rolex owner who believes that their watch is everlasting does not really understand mechanical self-winding watches.
Rolex GMT-Master Longevity
Rolex GMT-Master is a luxury watch that can be a treasure for a lifetime. Often the watch has emotional value, they often represent a memory or a special occasion that you want to remember. Rolex service is the best way to enjoy your Rolex GMT-Master for decades to come. Though Rolex servicing is not cheap, it is well worth the investment when your watch is returned to you in almost brand new condition. Being careful with your Rolex GMT-Master will help to keep the service costs lower, as the cost relates to how much needs to be done to restore its condition.
Rolex GMT-Master Water Resistance
Rolex GMT-Master is guaranteed to be waterproof up to 100 meters/ 330 feet. Each watch is individually tested at the Rolex factory labs before being sent to their retail stores. At this point the watch is in perfect condition with brand new gaskets.
Some Rolex users do not realise that waterproof is not a permanent feature. The water resistance will diminish over time, and salt or sand find their way inside the crown because the watch was not rinsed properly, the damage can be significant. As this may not be seen easily it is important to maintain regular maintenance. With no warning systems like a car dashboard or squealing brakes, servicing needs to be completed before a problem arises.
You can swim for years with a Rolex GMT-Master without a problem, and one day you could notice condensation under the crystal. A Rolex owner needs to know how to use and care for their watch, especially when the watch is worn for swimming.
Rolex GMT-Master Holding its Value
The Rolex GMT-Master is an iconic and timeless watch. Decades have passed, but the style and class have remained. The second-hand market has many buyers biding to buy Rolexes.
Rolex GMT-Master in good to great condition is more valuable. When the watch has its original documents with its box, and you can show that it has been serviced at a Rolex Service Centre, then Rolex GMT-Master can fetch the best price on the pre-owned market. The better the condition and the service record, the better the sale price will be.
On the other hand, a Rolex GMT-Master that has never been serviced or opened is like a watch that hasn't been diagnosed; Personally, I could never imagine purchasing a never-serviced pre-owned Rolex GMT-Master. What you are buying is a gamble, and I would recommend to stay away from it, especially if I don't know the history of the watch and how it has been used. There is no way to know whether that Rolex GMT-Master is in decent condition if it has never been opened and examined by a professional Rolex watchmaker.
Rusting on the Rolex GMT-Master movements can not always be noticeable from the outside. When this happens the watch has been subjected to premature wear and tear from water damage, or may have a lack of lubrication. The fact that the Rolex GMT-Master is still running is not an indication of the movements condition, as rust will not instantly break it but will become noticeable over time. The service history, however, is a good indication of the condition. It shows the owners care for his Rolex.
Rolex Service history will ensure that mainspring, balance wheel, gaskets, and other wearable parts are in good condition.