What do you think of this Rolex Day Date 1802?

Artu58
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Hi, I just bought this 1971 Day Date 1802, the watch looks very worn (the satin finishes on the lugs are gone and it has several scratches) but, personally, I don't mind vintage watches that have been used frequently.
What do you think, would you have it restored or would you wear it without too many problems?

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Bing813
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Original “ I’ve finally made it!” Watch. It’s beautiful and somebody wore it for over 50 years so please continue loving it the way it is.
 
Dan S
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What type of restoration are you considering and what problems are you referring to?
 
vibe
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Not really easy to judge the condition by these pics. Very cool that it has a smooth bezel. Some lume dots are missing, or just darkened.
 
Artu58
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Dan S Dan S
What type of restoration are you considering and what problems are you referring to?
I mean a very light restoration, maybe just restoring the satin finish of the lugs
 
Artu58
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Dan S Dan S
Che tipo di restauro stai prendendo in considerazione e a quali problemi fai riferimento?

vibe vibe
Not really easy to judge the condition by these pics. Very cool that it has a smooth bezel. Some lume dots are missing, or just darkened.
Some more professional photos

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GarethS
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I suspect that a factory fresh satin finish would look out of place on this old timer - and being 18k wouldn't last long if worn regularly

She wears her patina well - I vote to leave as is
 
Dan S
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Artu58 Artu58
I mean a very light restoration, maybe just restoring the satin finish of the lugs
Absolutely I would do that if you know someone who can do a good job. It's unfortunate that someone polished it in the past, and it would look better with proper surface finishes. However, if it's done in an amateurish way, it might be even worse.
 
Vinz Clortho
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Personally, any of the vintage watches I have, never tried to restore them. Serviced with no polish, etc. Feel the best part of vintage is the charm and character these watches have compared to their modern counterparts.

This is a gorgeous watch which was worn by the previous owner and adds to the story. Love the strap comb on it as well.
 
Larry S
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Lovely … just service the movement.. keep it as is … I’ve always wanted one of these so lucky you! My view is do no harm.
 
DeepBlue
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I'd definitely have the case lightly re-brushed so it isn't so shiny anymore.
Nowadays there are more and more skillfull watchmakers who can do this properly.
 
asrnj77
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I also think a light restoration, possibly just get the chamfers accentuated will be good. I personally haven’t used Rolliworks but they’re well regarded in the Rolex community in the US

https://www.rolliworks.com/gallery
 
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