Rolex Vintage Watch 6564 “Explorer” Caliber 1030: Restoration

Today it’s Rolex 6564 on the workbench.

A patinated dial with 3-6-9 indexes called "Explorer", applied Rolex logo, radium and a Rolex Butterfly movement. This piece comes straight from the 50s, from 1958 to be precise.

Unfortunately this little Oyster has been badly damaged by time...

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State of play

Mechanically, this 6564 has seen better days. The movement is completely clogged and malfunctioning.

In addition, the seconds hand is completely rusted and the glass is damaged.

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Movement

Under this Oyster caseback hides a treasure, the Rolex 1030 movement which equipped the legendary Submariner 6538 Big Crown. The one worn by Sean Connery in “James Bond 007 versus Dr No” in 1962.

The 1030 is better known under the name "Butterfly" because the shape of the oscillating weight is reminiscent of a butterfly.

Disassembly



All the rooms are very dirty. After cleaning we can already see more clearly.

The reassembly

The movement is impeccable. Good power reserve and good time keeping for this caliber certified as a chronometer in the 1950s.

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Blueing of the second hand

The second hand is originally dark blue.

This color is obtained by heating the needle. The steel oxidizes and gives a certain color. The task is not easy, especially when the needle is covered in rust.

I remove the rust film as best I can and place the needle in a small metal shovel, on a bed of brass shavings. We're heating up!

The result is not as good as that of an A. Lange & Söhne released from the factory but remains very correct given the age of the watch.

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Glass

Tropic acrylic glass is damaged around 1 hour. His replacement is inevitable.

A little dirt and rust between the bezel and the middle. To clean.

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End of restoration

Finally, the tube seal and the bottom seal are replaced.

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Conclusion

This beautiful Oyster will join its owner@petitesecondes after confinement. A talented photographer, he will enhance the 62 years of this watch, that's for sure.

I leave you with this series of photos:

Take care of your vintage watches, they deserve it.

You can find the other blog articles here: Blog  

You can also find a selection of vintage watches here: Vintage Watches

Joshua Grillet

Founder of LumeVille and watchmaker