This $25,000 Rolex Explorer Was Exposed to Seawater!
After Marshall made an appearance on a local news show (link below if you want to watch it!), he was contacted by a local woman with an amazing Rolex Explorer from the 60's that was left to her by her father. Unfortunately the watch got seawater in it on a day at the beach and had stopped running. After the local Rolex dealer, and even Rolex itself declined to work on the watch, Marshall undertakes his most challenging restoration yet to try to get it back on her wrist!
King5 Evening news piece on Marshall and this channel: • Seattle KZhead star r...
Support Wristwatch Revival via Patreon: / wristwatchrevival
Visit Sutcliffe Hansen for toolkits, revived watches, straps and more: sutcliffehansen.com/
Follow on Instagram for Project Updates in between video releases: @wristwatch_revival
------------------------------------
These are Amazon affiliate links to some of the equipment used for these videos and purchasing anything through them helps support the channel.
WATCHMAKING TOOLS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON:
Bergeon Screwdriver Set: amzn.to/34URcok
Dumont Tweezer #3: amzn.to/2YX4Hjl
Bergeon Springbar Tool: amzn.to/3LczDlJ
Bergeon Case Opening Ball: amzn.to/34VLbYg
Bergeon Presto Hand Removal Tool: amzn.to/3bfHtdo
Bergeon Movement Holder: amzn.to/3hQsY29
Horotec Hand Setting Tools: amzn.to/2Gdye1K
Rodico: amzn.to/32K0PDG
Bergeon Blower: amzn.to/34RgVxX
Bergeon Case Opening Knife: amzn.to/34VHr9e
Bergeon Quick Service Kit: amzn.to/2QHnScC
Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine: amzn.to/3i6BBER
Amscope Microscope: amzn.to/2EuReZ4
Multifunction Timegrapher: amzn.to/3Keceit
CAMERAS AND AUDIO:
Main Camera, Sony A7III: amzn.to/2Dk3Q4K
Secondary Camera, Sony RX100: amzn.to/2Dlrwpx
Tertiary Camera, Sony A6400: amzn.to/3jVaYqh
Main Macro Lens, Sigma 70mm f/2.8: amzn.to/3lD4Wdb
Secondary Macro, Laowa 100mm f/2.8 amzn.to/2ZGmFKo
Camlink 4k Video Converter: amzn.to/3hTiiQf
Shure MV7 Microphone: amzn.to/3KaMlQC
Audio Recorder, ZOOM H6: amzn.to/31R11BQ
Small Sirui Tripod: amzn.to/3K82W7Y
Sirui Tripod Head for Overhead Camera: amzn.to/2QNoNZ8
COMPUTER STUFF:
Apple Macbook Pro: amzn.to/3k170fD
Synology NAS: amzn.to/3k5sZlx
Seagate HDDs for NAS: amzn.to/3hQ5hqt
Samsung Portable Drive: amzn.to/34UdhTT
I've never been so captivated by a repair video before. This video should win some kind of award.
This comment is enough reward for me, thanks for saying so :)
@@WristwatchRevival I totally agree with PineCoffee. Your fascinating video got me quite emotional. It made me proud of my great-grandfather who repaired watches in the first part of the 20th century for a living. Unfortunately that is almost all I know about him.
Same
I am not even into watches, nor do I watch repair videos (with the exception of car restorations), but I watched the whole thing.
Why thought’s as well…water and watches don’t mix so I just figure it was waste of time…awesome job and video…
If someone watches a nearly 1-hour video about something that doesn't inherently interest them, it means the producer of that video is a true professional. Ty for this masterpiece (yes, I mean the video)
Agreed, watched the whole video.
Agreed, I watched whole video because it was so Delicate to repair .
Agreed, no interest in watches, but appreciate the skill of this repair!!
Some people just have an "educators voice" some professors in college were just absolutely shafted with a terrible class, but made it interesting because the way they talk.
I remember I started watching this as a joke, now this is at least my 5th time repeating this video willingly, that's crazy to me. Pure quality.
This is one of those channels that pulls you in and holds your attention on a subject that you're not even specifically into. The production quality, the way he explains everything in an easy to understand way, his soothing voice, everything about these videos is top quality. I've been interested in watches just as a fascinating feat of fine engineering and a piece of history. And this channel is a great place to enjoy a craftsman working his trade. You've earned yourself another subscriber.
Absolutely and its so encouraging to know that this kind of craftman ship is still alive and well i think rolex did us all a favour by refusing to repair it iam so glad they did for my part anyway thankyou 🩷💙🌈🌈🇦🇺🇦🇺🦘🦘🍀☔️😍💟☮️🕉️🌹🧡🌏🙏🙏🙏
This has been your best video to date Marshall! Not just because of perfect restoration, you do it very lovingly every time, but because of amazing story behind it, it's great to see that amazing watch running again. I used to be a collector, but I liquidated my collection to venture into real estate. In January, I acquired homes in Malibu for $34 million, and the returns on investment far exceed what I earned as a collector.
I hope Rolex viewed the video and it left them speechless. How did you grow your portfolio to $45m, I'm impressed, I have a lump sum in the bank, the rates are not impressive so I'm moving it, whats your cash flow like?
I have a financial advisor (trader) she grows my liquid assets and I reinvest the weekly payouts back into real estate and long-term ETFs.
Smart move, I love it, I have similar pattern for my cash flow as well.
Smooth, please can you share her with me, or maybe her name so I could search for her online, thanks
Cathy Jemar Carlone look her up.
If Zippo can afford to repair any lighter sent to them, it’s disappointing Rolex weren’t even willing to give it a go at the owner’s expense
Especially when you are paying them the premium prices for their watches. That is why the Snap-on tool company sells the high dollar tools they honor the warranty no question asked.
I guess Rolex Co. is not as badass as their marketing suggests. I had a similar situation with a Marathon TSAR that’s a drawer queen now and why I only wear Casio multi band 6 solar charge watches. At a third the price.
they're fine watches, but the majority of the money you pay is just for the name, you can get watches that are better for less. i've heard that most rolex "dealers" do not even let you get on the waitlist to buy a new one unless you already have at least one rolex, so you have to buy a secondhand one somewhere before you can get on the waitlist to buy a brand new one.
They did not even look at my '64 Datejust, which I just wanted cleaned and I wanted a new band. Being a lifetime Rolex collector, this made me start to look for another brand, entirely.
@@Murtagh653 They must have learned that from Ferrari or vice-versa
I was a Jeweler, more specifically diamond setter, for better part of my life, I am 72 now and my hat is off to you my friend, you are a master. To take apart Rolex, clean up rust and put it back together requires knowledge, steady hands, patience and accuracy, to have all those qualities is to be a master!
You being able to appreciate his talent tells me you couldn’t have been half bad at what you did either.
I hope he has an apprentice he can pass his experience on to.
⁰
Not to menthion a heap of special tools!
Agreed!
I'm a blue collar 9 to 5 guy that works at a glass business. This started playing in the list without sound and here I am a good hour later absolutely fascinated. You are brilliant, sir. Thank you for your time.
I’ve been avoiding watching this suggested video for weeks. I regret waiting. This is the Bob Ross of watch repair. Very relaxing.
Hypnotic. Got me watching for almost an hour and I have no interests in watches. Great engineering, fantastic repair skills, knowledge and passion. And I must say that he was able to keep me interested all the way through without becoming boring or making me feel uninterested... almost like as if I was a colleague who also does watch repairs. Great at verbally "illustrating" the work being done... fascinating.
me too! i also watched the whole video! No interesting in watches but i do like enginering and diy projects
Same here. Xb
Same, great guy working with a great passion.
Same, I watched it all
Same
I have no idea how i managed to stay hooked for 52:05 minutes on this video nonstop, hats off to the technician for his mesmerising work 👍
I’m glad we have artisans like yourself that spend the time and have the passion to do this sort of work. I was simply shocked about how well this particular watch turned out. The fact that Rolex rejected this repair request and you got it done is simply awesome.
I love how you narrate these videos. It's clear you're doing the voice work at the end of it all but you're so good at telling us what's happening and giving us moments of suspense even though you clearly already know what's going to happen.
I was thinking this same thing while the video was playing. When Marshall gets excited when the movement kicks up, it is pure joy, even though he knows that it will while recording the voice over. He does a very great job, one of the best.
You know you've made it when someone hands you their $25k watch to work on. Well done Marshall - what a journey. And so good to have seen it develop from the beginning.
And now I've watched the video - even more a statement of trust given how special the watch is to that lady - regardless of the monatary value .
What pisses me off is that Rolex refused to work on it. Good job Marshall. Keep it up.
@@AndrzejLDotEu its probably a liability reason from rolex tbh
@Harry Balls don’t hesitate to display your ignorance and lack of knowledge!! Flaunt it!
@@bigbeast5751 Probably. Anyroad, thank Cat Marshall exists 🙂
YOU ARE THE MAN ! Rolex should be ashamed of themselves for not even give it to an old school watchmaker to take on that challenge. My grandfather and Great great grandfather were master watch maker. Great Great grandfather was the general manager of Hamilton watch company in Lancaster pa for years. When they didn't have parts, THEY WOULD MAKE A NEW PART BY HAND. You telling me Rolex couldn't do that. I'm so proud of you for fixing it. I hope you signed inside the cover. You are an artist now. Neal
i Agree! Rolex are horrible for not fixing such expensive products that they make.. This guy is amazing, felt his joy of fixing it and the owners joy of having it repaired so well
Agree. Rolex should be ashamed. I have an Aston Martin. Aston Martin Works will take any Aston and make it like new. Pathetic Rolex can't be bothered to attempt the same. It would certainly put me off seeing any reason to buy into the brand.
They are a non profit so why should they
You got my attention because I have sausage fingers I could never do that . Bravo .
@@brei.z are they like gucci where the more popular they are the more shit they become?
Never watched a watch being dissembled, cleaned (and refurbed) and reassembled before; this was a thoroughly fascinating video delivered with true passion. Thank you so much, one hour well spent
I am very disappointed in Rolex. They are the absolute experts on their own watches and it is obvious that they never even opened the case. Thank you so much for doing the restoration and allowing us to watch! (no pun intended!) As several other commenters have stated, I am not really a watch person, but I am someone that loves to see how things are made, come apart and go back together. Awesome restoration!! ⌚
It's Rolex so they'd much rather you buy a new one, but of course someone in the service overseas usually can't afford one like the old days.
It's even worse when you consider it's *their* parts ffs!
amazing. your knowledge of that watch is like a surgeon taking a body apart, and then re-assemble it. crazy talent you have.@@3nertia
@@3nertiaRolex works on watches like a production line, it doesn’t benefit them to do a repair such as this when they can overhaul 10 clean watches in the same amount of time. Also Rolex doesn’t stock every part to older watch’s in their inventory, most watchmakers have to source from third party sources. Think of it as trying to send your Ford back to the factory where it was made to be re-furbished.
@@Notfiveo0 Then they built their factories wrong eh but, meh, viva la capitalism, I fucking guess. There is value in repairs and they have the cheapest/easiest access to parts and the necessary technicians with the knowledge and skills but it's not about producing a good product that will last or that is easily serviceable anymore, it's about profits ...
I think what's heavily underrated here is the commentary. It feels so natural, like you're recording it live and in the moment.
Totally agree, sounded like a really good infomercial.
I hated it. I muted the video and turned down the brightness. Watch looked like it smelt like clams.
@@GardenGuy1943 Dean sure sounds like a fun guy
@psyberian In reality this video was probably a year in the making.
@@TexasStormChaser yeah that's what i'm talking about. I only realized this about halfway through the video
first time seeing a watch being disassembled and reassembled and never knew how intricate they could be. Really made me appreciate watches in a different way.
I have a ("unfortunately") rather new Grand Fathers Clock (roughly 20-30 years old). I can tell you, they're hypnotic to watch from the inside. I think mechanical watches have something to them which no digital clock can ever achieve. It's just... Amazing engineering work and it looks so majestic. Currently, I'm saving up to being able to afford repairing of the family's wall clock, my mom and I saved when my grandfather died. Looking iside it though. It's just amazing. This clock is probably around 100 years old (as my grandfather already inherited it). And sure, I'm currently wearing a smart watch on my wrist... But I just can't miss out on their functionality. Even though, I love skeleton wrist watches and automatic wrist watches and stuff... Just amazing!
Not trying to tell you how to do your job, it would be good in the future to clean the winding stem barrel earlier! To not push any corrosion into clean works. Thanks!
You're either super young or completely ignorant to what a watch is
@@davidleblanc4521 just a heads up David you've replied to a comment rather than the video, if you go back there should be an option to "add a comment" rather than "add a reply" and you stand a better chance of getting the message across 👍
Marshall, I would like to thank you for an extremely interesting two-part documentary on precision watch restoration. I say thank you because of the obvious time and effort that you have expended in producing a first rate video on such a complex restoration exercise, and for all of the tips and hints which you included for our benefit. Many, many thanks again, sir, and best wishes for the future
After being told no by her local jeweller AND even Rolex themselves refusing to work on the watch, I can imagine the relief the woman felt when you accepted the challenge of working on her father’s watch. That you were able to present her with an absolutely gorgeous, fully functional working piece after all your time and effort is just awesome!! Considering it is truly an irreplaceable family heirloom, I am sure that she was extremely grateful to you and realized how much skill and excellence was required of you to do such a fine job on a piece no one else would even touch. Hopefully she is also aware that there are indeed people out there who would have taken the watch apart, realized that they could get it running again, and then attempted to convince her that it was junk and tried to get her to sell it to them for $50 as a parts piece. This is a longer video that was really amazing to “watch” ;) and with millions of views, I’m hoping you were well rewarded for your craftsmanship and kindness.
I hope Rolex viewed the video and it left them speechless.
@@mortanicus5871 I think sending your watch back to Rolex is like sending your worn out car back to the factory for a rebuild. Both factories are operated by assemblers not car or watch technicians. Good for the OP on taking on this difficult job. If it was a Timex you throw it in the trash, a Rolex needs dedicated watch repair experts.
if the person who makes the watch by hand and makes there own parts cant fix something why can a youtuber @@RSDX99
I'm not even into watches or watch repair. However watching you restore watches is very entertaining and informative.
Turning red rust into black rust is essentially what happens in gun bluing.
Same! I know next to nothing about watches and repairing them, yet I am mesmerized by this channel. Fantastic narration with great camera work. Love it!
i'll do you one better, all of the above and i dont even wear a watch
@@AmirKhan-qx2lr I second this
Entertaining, Informative and the best 52 minutes Stress Relieving session I've ever had WOW. If you could bottle it. Definitely the Bob Ross of Watchery. Also the quality of your video journey's is so very excellent. I sometimes feel I can reach out and Wind the Watches up.
Dude, you literally have every tool I didnt know existed to fix a watch, its unbelievable you are a genius at your craft..... Kudos....
Ikr, it's almost as if he repairs watches for a living.
@@yunsha9986 crazy thing is he doesn't!
D I
@@carbies2 really, that was some special tools he got there. what does he do for a living then?
@@francisjimenez6367 he states all the time he is just a hobbyist. his life can stay private.
I can't change a watch battery, so watching this guy disassemble and reassemble legit vintage watches is quite something to see. He's got a broadcast voice, which really helps make this interesting.
So true. His voice is perfect to not be annoying and hold your interest over a long period of time. I found myself listening so attentively.
So fascinating watching the restoration process. Cant beleive it is almost an hour long video. Very informative yet professionally done. Love it.
I can only imagine the emotion - on both sides - when you gave the lady her Dad's watch restored to life again. Well done, Marshall.
It's incredible how tight the tolerances are on such tiny mechanisms. As a machinist who does work for big industries, I see so much rust on things that just keep on chugging along, whereas something so small and delicate requires every piece to be pristine. Really gives you an appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in the design of these cool little devices.
Think it's more the relative size compared to foreign matter. 1mm of rust on something 1000mm is nothing, 0.1mm of rust on 10mm is like playing football in quicksand
@@aidengracey1267 that's what tolerance is about, it's the range of size that a part can be and still function, when saying watches have tight tolerances it's saying that a small change in size would cause the part to not work, there's no relative tolerance based on size, it depends on the function each part has to perform
Yup... You could not have said it better...right...right..right!!!
@@aidengracey1267 when trying to sound smart fails 😂😂
Does anyone know the purpose of the internal jewels of the watch?
I just love the engineering behind these, and this story was very touching as well. Love to see the care given in the restoration, and it's sad Rolex wouldn't even touch this.
I love this. My dad repaired watches, but I never saw him take one apart to such a level. I would NOT be able to remember what goes where. I'd end up with a pile of parts lol! I am a retired electronics engineer so I've had my fair share of strip-downs but not with so many parts, luckily. This is the video of the year for me. Amazing.
Man, you’re the Bob Ross of watch repair. No clue what I’m looking at until the end but the journey is so relaxing.
We'll start by taking off the happy little hands.
The seawater just blows across the dial. I like to clear the rust with a brush I call a Whisper.
@@MrBeard17 - LOL ! put them wherever makes you happy
@@randomschmo5778 Please no happy little accidents. They will not make the owner happy, though others may smile.
And his version of "beating the devil" out of a brush is when he puts the rewound mainspring back in and it makes the "clunk" sounds. He comments on it every video with a little bob ross laugh.
My stepfather was a watchmaker by trade. I used to sit and watch him repair watches like this for hours. Fantastic restoration on your part. Thank you for sharing.
So many people open up a watch out of curiosity but can’t put it back together. You are the first person I have watched who stayed with it from start to finish. You are so skilled and knowledgeable. Excellent work!!
I'm watching this a year later and i cant believe ive not come across this before, this video is exceptional, the presentation is totally next level after the next level! The fine and delicate precision work shown is delivered in such a fantastically clear and easy to follow way. The skill level here is immense. It thoroughly deserves its 9Million views (currently), i could watch this again and again. Thank you so much for your effort in completing this restoration the story the watch and everything about this video is perfection. It was so nice to hear the real pure Joy in your voice when the springs sprung into life.
Fantastic!!!
I never thought I would find myself watching a guy take a watch apart, but your various special tools, confident work, and knowledge of all the names of the parts, makes you sound like a doctor! and your conversation explaining the process was captivating.
Same here. I wasn't even remotely aware there could be a channel devoted to watch repairs but as I started watching it, totally remained glued to the screen in awe of his precision craftsmanship, specialty tools that I couldn't even imagine exist and his knowledge of each & every part of the watch.
So true
I'd get the part names wrong often enough, but I can see how they related and work together well enough to figure out assembly and disassembly. What's worth gold is seeing lube points and what's worth platinum, seeing which tools get used for what purpose. The only better thing for cleaning than an ultrasonic cleaner is two ultrasonic cleaners! ;) Just looked up the rust away, MSDS shows Ammonium Bifluoride and an acid to buffer and complex things, plus a solvent. Ammonium Bifluoride is properly known as Ammonium Hydrogen Bifluoride and disassociates into HF in water, so not a good thing to get on you, but it's a 1 - 10% level in the solution, reasonable precautions would work well enough. Phosphoric acid would do the same thing, but it'd leave a phosphide layer that'd discolor the movement. That's the active ingredient in naval jelly and also what's used when heated to Parkerize steel gun parts.
Ayam goreng enak
I thot I was the only one. I watched in entirety and glad she had her Dad's watch back. Disappointed with Rolex for not even bother to restore it. Kudos for Marshall for helping her. You are a true craftsman !
Love your page, I was a classically trained watchmaker (retired nearly 20 years ago) nice to see the trade being carried on, unfortunatly my hands and eyes no longer allow me to enjoy the practice ( its all I can do to to keep my old Rodania divers watch running without destroying it). Restored many classic watches, a couple of Patek Phillipe and Breitlings particularlly come to mind. I hear the jubilation of a successful project in your voice as you place the balance and it goes to full bank. looking forward to seeing more !!
Seems like cap ngl
Wow. That was such a treat. Your narration makes it seem like we're sitting right next to you going through this rollercoaster of emotions putting this heirloom watch back together to give it life again. I almost felt like saying, "Look! It's moving. It's alive. It's alive!" 🙂
I'm learning this whole new thing watching this channel. Glad the owner got the memories of her dad ticking again.
I've never watched a watch repair before...so keeping me entertained and informed for the better part of an hour, on a subject I know nothing about, is testament to your skill, presentation and passion. Thank you for your efforts.
Well said !!
Ditto!
I concur.
Yes, when this popped up randomly I was confused, but it was so entertaining and educational.
I have no interest in watchmaking or repairing. However, I stumbled onto this video and was mesmerized! What an incredible, skilled talent you possess. Very enjoyable 52 minutes spent.
I'm right there with you. I can't believe I'm watching it now. What blows me away is the removal of the parts and like 'oh I know where they go so I don't have to go crazy keeping track of them all.' Between Marshall and the LockPickingLawyer, I watch stuff that I have no experience in doing. But this is just amazing. I am now a subscriber, because why not.
I just got this recommended and I have no idea why, but yeah that hour just flew right by, fascinating video.
That was impressive! Thanks for putting this video together. It’s good to know there are people with meticulous professionalism and demonstrated patience. Your willingness to share this with us (and others who want to be the next generation of artisans) is very gracious and heart warming.
Nice story. Thank you. The video was well done. By the way, there must be an alternative explanation for Rolex Geneva refusing the repair. It couldn't have been due to the level of difficulty or a lack of replacement parts, as I've encountered more challenging situations during my tenure with the company.
What often defines the value of any vintage item is the sentimental value of it. For watch collectors, this watch is worth the 25 000$ you put in the title, but for this lady, this watch is simply priceless for all of the memories and feelings that it brings back. Congratulations, you did an absolutely amazing restoration on this piece. You are a truly a pro in what you do ! She's is very fortunate to have known you.
Thank you, and I agree and the owner agrees as well after talking with her!
@@WristwatchRevival you did a great Job on that watch !
awesome and truly inspiring ( craftsman and wonderful human being ).. kind regards
@@WristwatchRevival Marshall I’m being contacted from someone claiming to be you from this video in comments. Very bad English and they also have the ability to delete messages. Just a heads up buddy. If this one gets deleted I’ll report for you as they’re obviously in your system somehow manipulating messages. Something about a contest giveaway. Cheers!
@@JubileeValence The scams are everywhere on KZhead.
I love the idea of "company refuses yo fix own product, dude on youtube does it himself" I cant imagine the horror when such an expensive piece gets ruined, or the joy she felt when she got to pass it off to you. Another job well done good sir!
Happens every day... Most warranties are 1 year.
@@dangerous8333 who mentioned warranty? I know i didnt. Try again?
hahaha.. one of marketing technique?
Wow, I stumbles accross this video. Not into watches but being an engineer appreciated the work you did referring the watch and the patience you need working with tiny pieces. A credit to you
Yes it undermines faith in Rolex.
Man, just found this video from some seiko mod videos (I was curious to more about this new mod comunity) and you are the best! You explain everything in detail, it’s like having a friend talking with me while repairing the watch! You have a talent! Subscribed!
I love the way you explain how the watch works In general. I can do small repairs but not what you do. Absolutely amazing. Thankyou.
The restoration of this watch when Rolex company refused is a testament to Mr. Marshall's skill and ability. Some people are masters at bridge and others are grandmasters at chess. Mr. Marshall is undoubtedly a grandmaster at his craft. Well done!
The combination of expertise, dexterity, patience, and resource development is spectacular. I am not surprised Rolex declined to tackle the job - they were not motivated and knew parts availability could sink the project. Would Rolex buy a Rolex part on eBay?
Is it? Or is just because they didn't want to bother?
you know he is a grandmaster when he didnt like your comment, no grandmaster ever likes a comment calling himself one. Truly a grandmaster.
@@dangerous8333 Because Rolex only have Watch "Technician" that specializes in 1 or 2 parts of the watch. They are unable to do such extensive work. If you're some Multi-Millionare, Billionaire or maybe some superstar, they might do it.
@@flagmichael they could probably fabricate new parts but that takes time and also probably finding up spec sheets to make the parts to spec
This is the most incredible rabbit hole I've ever gone down. Always thought my great grandfathers pocket watch is a lost cause and would never tick again, now I'm buying tools and watches to learn on. Hopefully one day I will get his watch ticking again. Thank you for all the inspiration you've given me!
The fact you’re willing to learn and try it is respectively admirable
Courage on your path!!!!
Good luck!!
I still have my dad's railroad Waltham pocket watch. Have to remove the bezel to move a lever to set the time via the keyless set. They were cleaned and oiled monthly when he was with the railroad. Amazingly, it still runs on time and the last cleaning was in the late 1950's. I'm sure that by now, it's about as water resistant as the Arizona though, it'd likely need new gaskets all around. Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure I need a few new gaskets myself...
🐰 🕳
Watched this a year after and was enthralled, your knowledge & skill is so spot on 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
So passionate with what others can call work, love the way you take us step by step!!
I imagine people like yourself with the knowledge patience to repair these wonders of engineering are becoming rarer and rarer. Your skills are only surpassed by the designers and engineers who conceived these marvels in the first place!! Bravo! Keep up your fine work.
The designers and engineers were no where to be found, basically ran in fear of this watch. This is a god amongst men.
and machinists...
the amount of passion this guy has for watches is insane. My goal in life is to find something that I care about as much as this guy
Plus he is self-taught & makes it look so darn easy. My biggest fear is that I would take apart a watch and then not have a clue of what screw or part goes where when I try to out it back together.
@@dannysimenauer5745 that's another reason for getting it on video. Obviously you need to be a master craftsman to repair it properly but you can always refer to the disassembly.
What an absolute joy to watch the dedication, craftsmanship, expertise and love you put into your work !
I'm pretty happy for the owner. She went through all of this to get her father's watch repaired. I'm sure it means a lot to her. Good job!
Marshall, as a Vietnam vet myself I just want to say to you that your work on this watch didn't just restore a treasured piece for your client, it honors the legacy of the fellow Vietnam vet who owned and wore it. On his behalf, I thank you.
That was one of the reasons I subscribed. My father was a 2 tour Vietnam vet (28 years army) and this made me think of him....
thank you for your service sir.
Thank you for your service, Mr. Behling. I wasn’t alive and able to say it then, but I am alive and able now; Welcome home!
@text me on telegram...@wristwatch01 Interesting that this comment does not come from the official account. Color me, skeptical.
thank you for your service sir
Knowing nothing about watches, I ended up watching the whole thing. And that's what happens when a video establishes its maker's expertise, passion, and kindness, right from the first minutes. Brilliant work and video.
I have been having a hard time the past few weeks. This video gave me joy and peace for an hour that is priceless. Thank you for that.
You are one amazing person this rebuild was a quite heartfelt. Also, we need more people like you doing what they do Best
Marshall is a god-tier expert at restoring watches when he can do a job even Rolex can't do, and no one else is willing to fix it. This man deserves a medal🎖
AYFKM?
@@IShootWatches Why are you so offended by the idea that Rolex refused to complete the repair? With the extent of damage to the movement and likely necessity for limited-stock replacement parts, it's possible that they did not want to devote the necessary resources to this repair. They are currently behind on repairs, and many of their experienced watchmakers have recently retired. Guess living in Geneva didn't cue you in to all of the factors at play here.
Not that Rolex couldn't do the repair, it's that they didn't want to. They'd rather sell you a new watch.
@@IShootWatches I don't want Google to translate it, unless it translates into the "slang".
@@nolongeramused8135 Everyone's always got excuses these days why they can't❗️'' it's that they won't ! '' ‼️®™️ 😡😡
This was the first time I have seen anything like this, and to observe the disassembly, repair and reassembly of a Rolex is quite awe inspiring! I was completely mesmerized for the whole process.
Really good my whole family have owned chunks of hublot they were master watch makers you are good at watch making well done
it's The Voice
Same here
Thank you for taking us through that. Not only your expertise went into that but your heart also. It was a joy to ‘watch’.
amazing how intricate parts are on that watch & the knowledge & tools to work on such watch. mind blowing.
The skill and expertise you have is on another level. I was totally engrossed watching the restoration, Rolex wouldn't fix it because it's too many hours of work yet you have given the owner a lifetime of memories and enjoyment. Top man marshall
Watchmakers like him are sadly a dying breed. The type willing to give even some of the worst a shot at fixing regardless of what make it is. Be it a soviet or Russian,Japanese or entry level American or European pin lever entry level mechanicals.
To be fair, he mentioned that it is most likely parts availability that was the reason for it not being repaired by Rolex. I would say it would be a nice touch, if Rolex would restock some of the parts for these. The watchmakers in rolex hq are definitely qualified and skilled enough to do a restoration like this, still a shame that they did not service the watch.
@@MexicoBeachFloridaLiving People that repair watches are properly called 'watchmakers'.
@@MexicoBeachFloridaLiving When it kicked back up I guessed the amplitude was 220°~ and I wasn't far off. I'd guess a better cleaning and perhaps a new mainspring would bump it up, but Yes, the amplitude was too low and the 'repair' isn't quite finished imho. Would be interesting to see what it's like after 24-48 hours of running - you can't rely on timings from 10 minutes after the watch is reassembled. Also, this fella is still learning the craft and is coming along, again imho, pretty well.
@@richardcranium0 Please do not forget: The owner wanted to keep as much of the watch original as possible (I guess that includes the mainspring as well). What means that the owner and Marshall had to make some compromises. I think for an "experienced and passionated amateur" as a lot of people seem to see him, Marshall does a great job.
To see the level of detail inside the watch is amazing, then when the camera is zoomed out and you realize the components of the watch are so tiny - it is mind blowing. Congratulating on the restoration!
Really shows the true intricacy of watches in general not just rolex’s
i was randomly scrolling and watched the full video, it was amazing to see this micro level of mech engineering decades ago.
This is really interesting to watch, the absolute official standard that watches have, and the amount of parts too, it's insane! Good job fixing all of those watches, and being a great man, such a kind heart!
Rolex customer service sounds absolutely heartless. So nice knowing there are people like you and other repairers out there willing to take on these kind of projects.
Unless you're a billionnaire and money has no value for you, don't waste your hard earned money on a Rolex. Great watches but massively overpriced and a company which seems to not care for its customers anymore. I heard the customer reception is awful, the same for the customer service...
@@LeChristEstRoi yeah you'll never catch me buying watches I don't want so they'll let me buy a watch I do. I'll be spending my money elsewhere thank you very much. Can't see myself buying one.
The Rolex service center should be embarrassed that they cannot fix their own watch. They have to have access to all the needed parts. But from Marshals perspective, he just proved he’s better than Rolex themselves.
@@raybayes9462 Actually I don't believe Rolex hq doesn't have those parts! They are just lazy and don't care about customers. Rolex should have repair this watch and for free! Those ungodly prices should include perfect customer service.
@@raybayes9462 they are a business not a charity. an enthusiast has the option to take weeks sourcing second hand parts. they do not.
I've got to say: I really didn't expect to watch an almost 1 hour video on watch repair. But this video was honestly so satisfying and interesting! I'm impressed with how complex the watch is yet you're easily able to name every part and keep them organized. To me that seems like magic. You're also so careful with the way you work! Like some of those plyers were wooden or plastic coated to prevent scratching? There were even times when you covered the pieces in plastic before you disassembled them. I really am impressed by your level of care and attention to detail. You seem to really care about doing a good job and I think this is reflected in result. I hope your business keeps doing well and you make more videos. Oddly relaxing to watch.
I feel the same way. I expected to fast forward multiple times, but I didn't. Every minute was worth it.
Played it 1.5x lol great video
I would like to second that sentiment. Was very satisfying an a true professional on how if you wanted to get into the business or just wanted to tinker. Very satisfying to watch!
It felt like 5 minutes
Feel exactly the same
Wow, I enjoyed every minute of the video. Terrific work and you impacted someone's life forever.
Rolex refusing to repair it (doubtless at a price) seems appalling, I'm curious what excuse they gave. The serious damage was actually minimal, most parts just needed cleaning up. Great job restoring this that Rolex were too
Rolex probably wanted to do a complete restoration (i.e. like new watch) for an eye popping amount. I brought my father's well worn Rolex to an official Rolex service center (there are several in major cities in the US) and they had no interest in doing what Marshall did in this video. And their quote which included replacement parts exceeded the watch's original cost. I shipped my watch to an independent shop that services Rolex only and they did a phenomenal job. Never again will I have my watches serviced by Rolex.
Rolex could have restored it. However because they offer a 2 year warranty on all repairs they would have only made the repair if the customer agreed to certain things, like the replacement of the dial, hands, Crystal, a complete refinish of the case, etc. All of which would have diminished the value of the watch. Rolex are a bit more flexible these days, but would prefer that this sort of restoration is performed by authorised specialists, that way the customer gets exactly what they want.
@@andyglastonbury6032 & @BeantownToBigD ..thankyou both for interesting replies. I can understand they would have asked a lot (and only used genuine parts) but as the video showed actually it was only a handful of functional parts that *needed* to be replaced (which Marshall also did). As you state, simply swapping or restoring hands case etc that are not functional isn't just unnecessary expense its actually destroying the patina indeed personality that makes that watch special. That a brand that trades so much on image and history seemingly doesn't understand that is tragic. Yet another once great product company now run by accountants ? I dislike Swiss watches anyway, the price is insane, but if I needed a reason to avoid them this would be one : conversely I enjoy Marshalls videos exactly for his craft to do just this. That they wont.😀
@@davesmith9325 The biggest difference is that Rolex offer a guarantee on their services (typically two years) and basically offer to make the watch “like new”, which means replace everything that is old and in poor condition. They will sometimes offer to simply service a watch and ensure it’s waterproofness and give customers the option to replace dials/handset, bezel inserts, but this watch needed much more. Also I didn’t see new seals being fitted to the crown nor did I see it being subjected to the normal Rolex pressure test, important because the damage was caused by water getting into movement. This explains why all original vintage (over 20 year old) Rolex watches are so rare. Most have had dials/hands, etc replaced at some point in their past. Many customers loved it because they could, as part of the service, replace, for example the old matte dial on the first gen 16750 GMT and get a nice new shinny Gloss dial with the white gold indexes (and make it look like the latest version). The problem is that now the matte dial gen 16750 is worth about 30% more. The same went for meters first 5513, for red 1680, for matte 16800, etc, etc. Collectors want originality. It’s sad that 1000’s have been wiped of the values of vintage watches because they haven’t been conserved correctly and because of poor choices made by customers.
@@BeantownToBigD one unfortunate and lamentable result of the Rolex brand's corporate journey and change in focus is adoption of an 'unofficial' policy to orphan and abandon these now iconic 'non jewelry' time pieces which were at that time the brand's lower end product line and to stop manufacture of the parts and service for these time pieces. The tragedy of this unofficial policy is the legendary standards of time piece engineering the name Rolex once stood for is being lost forever. Rolex is now owned by a group who have chosen to invest their energy in harvesting rather than preserving and supporting that brand reputation. Now only, only the higher end chronometer level lines of the early Rolex brand are being supported. It's rare to find a watch professional who has even the lowest level of technical talent to service an early Rolex like this. This channel is outstanding in having an owner who is truly a "master watch maker" with the knowledge and skills to even attempt such a repair and restoration. These 'sport' watches were manufactured by Rolex to fill in as entry level time pieces meant to bring consumers into the brand and build loyalty and awareness. If you check the official catalogs for Rolex in the early 80s the company began their shift away from lower end consumer grade time pieces to focus more on higher priced jewelry time pieces in effect harvesting the enginerring reputation but not continuing to invest in maintaining that tradition and brand standard. if you compare this Rolex watch to those produced today by opening them up you can see how this tragic short sighted policy has hollowed out the Rolex brand reputation so today it no longer represents the high standards of time piece engineering that built the name Rolex.... Tragic loss..
I kept finding myself thinking about how interestingly you were able to narrate this process of such intricate work! Bravo. You kept this non-watch person enthralled for almost an hour. What a marvelous skill, and this restoration is such a gift to your client!
I agree :)
Absolutely
Well said! I am also here to learn how to invest after listening to a lady on tv talk about the importance of investing and how she made 7 figure in 3 month, somehow the video taught me nothing and left me even more confused, I'm a newbie and I'm open to ideas on how to invest for retirement
@@rajeshupadhyay5683 lookup Priscilla Dearmin-Turner, this is her name online, she's the real investment prodigy since the crash and have help me recovered my loses
Despite the economic crisis and the rate of unemployment now is the best time to invest
What a wonderful video of this amazing restoration! I so enjoy watching you working on these classic Rolex watches and I learned many neat tricks from it. I wish I was younger again and start over in watch repair with all this new knowledge. When I did repair there was no KZhead... 😊
Fantastic videos and your detail instructions are brilliant 👏
Although I haven't worn a mechanical watch in decades, I thoroughly enjoy watching your videos. The camera work, the editing, the commentary, and your skill at watch repair are all top-notch, I appreciate that you recently have taken the extra effort to release these videos in 4k. I even detect the tiniest hint of post-production audio noise reduction going on, which just speaks to your attention to detail and the quality of your work.
Dude he works on time pieces. Attention to detail is literally all he does..lol. This is crazy though
I am in the group you call "not interested in watches", but your videos fascinate me. I am totally amazed at the engineering in these watches. I am amazed because if the technology which was needed to make the parts which go into a quality watch. I am an engineer, i have skills in larger mechanical devices, but watches just blow my mind and the layers of mechanism needed to make a watch work just fascinate and amaze me. I love your commentary too, it is full of knowledge gained by doing and not reading about it. Thanks for these videos.
sounds like you need a watch. ;)
@@dasmg yes, I have several cheep watches,I tent to buy very cheep - it cheaper to buy a watch than replace the battery. I want a good mechanical watch.
@@stuartgrier5605 same here, watches are fascinating but i do not understand how anyone could pay the kinds of money just for something to tell you the time. 1000$ is my absolute ceiling for a watch and i haven't even come close - most expensive watch i have ever bought was 65 dollars. Maybe if I fell ass backwards into money i 'may' get an expensive watch for very special occasions.
@@stuartgrier5605 Timex released some new mechanical watches for $200 or less. Good way to get one for a reasonable price.
@@BigMeanyVids yes, i have seen them. I live in the uk, i remember i had a timex when i was younger in primary school (younger than 11)
Fantastic! I can’t imagine the roller coaster of emotions the young lady experienced while watching the ups and downs of the repair.
As we know, sadly Rolex and other brands are monopolizing the repairs. Glad you were able to restore. A win for hobbyists and independent watchmakers.
Once in a long while, I get a video recommendation that doesn't relate to my usual interests. And I enjoyed this one thoroughly! Your passion to your craft of both repairing watches and making videos about it shines through this entire our of footage. You deserve this traffic you are getting man, awesome work.
The production value of this episode was stellar! The editing, storytelling and pacing were just perfect, 52 minutes of bliss! Marshall, my man, you are as good as a youtuber as a watchmaker, enjoying the products of your passion and craftsmanship is a real pleasure. Thank you!
I did not even notice I spent an hour on this video till I saw your comment while he was putting on the case. Truly captivating
Just found your channel and subscribed. Here i am at 2 in the morning watching your videos. Your steady hand and knowledge of your trade is amazing. Thank you for sharing!
This is fascinating, and always awesome to watch a master at work. Thank you
Loved every second of this journey. I bet the owner is more proud of you bringing it back to life than saying Rolex fixed it, due to the care and love you put into it. Plus she forever has the video of each part being lovingly restored. Her accident lead to the fortune of having an amazing comeback in your hands.
Rolex is making a brand new watch out of it, removing all the history. So, giving it to an independent watchmaker is the best you can do with your heirloom.
@@citizaniac149 wrong, you can decide what they will do, if possible to do it.
@@danielhopkins2277 in this case you can't decide anything since Rolex refused to work on it
@@Hawk7886 I'm pretty sure Rolex didn't refuse, they repair older ones all the time. I'm sure the woman lied and it was just to expensive for her, just doesn't want to confess it to our Guy here. I have two other possibilities in my mind, but that one is the most obvious one.
@@danielhopkins2277 yeah let's accept your theorycrafting instead of just going with what the guy making the video believed
The joy of restoring a family heirloom for someone truly is priceless. Well done
I simply could not stop watching. I'm extremely happy that the lady is able to have her father's watch running as intended once again. By the way, you impress me as being a truthful, honest, and honorable man. God Bless You, Sir.
Your work is a work of art, loved your video
Marshall, surely at this stage you can't consider yourself an amateur? You did what Rolex couldn't/wouldn't do, congratulations awesome.e work awesome video! Edit point here, I just realised why I will never own a Rolex, it just stinks that they wouldn't repair this watch.
I've posted a video about my experience with Rolex Service in Geneva here: kzhead.info/sun/ZZqGaKqRpnWlmnk/bejne.html
yeah... neither you nor Marshall have the slightest clue as to why they turned down the repair. You can guess... but you really don't know. I wish the internet didn't encourage people to say things based on their LACK of knowledge, but apparently it really does.
@@thomasneal9291 hi Thomas you know what you're right, I guess with the information provided it just made me mad, but without the full story my opinion is mute. Great job by Marshall all the same.
@@IShootWatches my knowledge of what Rolex will and won't do could fit on the back of a stamp! You clearly have had a great experience which is really good to hear.
@@IShootWatches You have heard of Rolex refusing to do a repair/restore now. There could be a whole host of different reasons as to why.
I never thought I would sit and watch someone take apart a watch and put it back together! You made it so damn interesting I never put my phone down once! Beautiful work and thank God for people like you!😊
When clicking the video I actually only wanted to zap through looking at the damage done by the sea water. But stayed totally glued to the screen for the whole time.
You took the words right outta my mouth !
@@lunakoala5053 Exactly my plan, now an hour has gone :P . soo good!
I do not own a watch. I haven't owned a watch for 30+ years. I just watched this video and another video from Wristwatch Revival. Now I'm addicted.to watching them.
You can imagine her excitement at getting it back in such a great restored condition. Stuff happens in life and it's great when the bad things can be remedied so well. Excellent work on this one.
What I love about these videos is how I don’t ever think I’ll watch the whole way through yet I do. Perfectly paced, relaxing and enjoyable. 😊
I started watching these videos a few months back. It initially started as me wanting to watch like, half of one just out of curiosity. I wanted to see what the inside of these watches look like. Fast forward a few months and it is part of my weekend morning ritual to sit, drink coffee, and watch him fixing a watch.
@@penguinjonesesq I watch them all of the way through also, but in the evening and with a cold beer.
Man, I was thinking to myself, this has to be so hard to remember any of these parts. Then he says "this is stressful" and I instantly felt it. I wonder how much work like this costs someone. Worth every penny.
incredible really
A lot of practice 👍🏻
I sometimes need to take apart electronics to clean and repair, stuff like video game consoles, controllers, remotes, and computer parts, phones and tablets, and none of those are as complicated as watches are. And yet I still manage to lose screws and break parts
about 1k at an authorized rolex service center stem gold and chrystal extra.. rolex guarantees the operation of watch..why i only use them..
@@peter-pg5yc also comes with the burden of being regarded as a snob and having to be stressed when someone stops you with a knife to add it to their collection...
Great work and truely professional! First time watching you and WOW! So much to know when doing a watch and you made it look easy!
You Sir, are a craftsman. This is so nice to "watch" someone who knows what he's doing with something so small and delicate, such attention to detail and using those wonderful tools on such a precision machine. No wonder Rolex watches are so expensive, they are so well engineered! Many thanks for posting
Sans?
@@mem3b0i_
I see what you did there, I feel like that joke is probably made a lot on this channel though. lol
Time for another pun?
Such an inspiring man. You can tell he really appreciates his work and his craft, stunning attention to detail. In videos like these I often tend to skip through a lot of the content but I watched the entire way through without skipping even once, very educational. Truly a humble master of his craft, tremendous amounts of respect to Wristwatch Revival and his future endeavors.
You may want to know that I am an amateur radio operator, also! KQ2E Even if you are not, I thought I'd tell you in case you or others may wish to contact me!
Me too
Me too! K3GM
It’s Just beyond phenomenal the way you can put all those little bits and pieces back together with no extra parts left over 😊
Best wishes for all of you and thank you for all you have done for the watch world and watch enthusiasts.. This feels like missing 4 good friends….
The voice, the slow action are mesmerizing in the extreme. The tiny world of watch movements comes alive in Marshalls' hands. I had no interest at all in watch repairs until I happened upon this channel. Each watch repair is an adventure which makes the viewer stay until the end to see the transformation. Thanks Marshall.
I'm feeling exactly the same.
Yeah that voice. I knew I recognized it... MTG.
Yep ! you've said it for me.... thanks marshall
I'm positive that the owner is more appreciative than you could ever imagine. Outstanding work! I'm happy for the owner and for you...the enjoyment you got when you saw that the watch worked, absoluteiy came through in the video. Again, well done!
Same thoughts here! Glad the owner found u!
You're videos are amazing. I'll admit that I do jump to the end sometimes. Only because I get anxiety at the thought of losing a part or forgetting a step of the process. Your Omega, eBay find, video was amazing. Thank you for sharing your craft...
Absolutely intrigued the whole way! Excellent video and I know nothing of watches. He explains so well and clear. A true master with loads of knowledge and patience that I can only dream of.
I wish I could own a watch like this only so I could have you restore it and watch the video. That is one lucky lady. Not only does she have a perfectly renewed watch, but she has the detailed video of you tearing it down and lovingly bringing it back to near new status. Just amazing. I'm so happy you were able to share this with us.
There’s not enough stock in this comment. She is TRULY blessed to see EXACTLY what he did the entire way through. You and I would be disgusted to see what the mechanics do with our cars when we need repairs. Adding photos of her dad was a nice touch too.
i agree to this. its just awesome to see it
Not me. I would never own a watch like this, as I am accident-prone.
@@ritageraghty3261 But that's the great thing about these watches! They are meant for climbing mountains, triathlons, exploring. most people who do those aren't accident prone BUT you don't need to be accident prone to occasionally have bad things happen. They are designed to survive you crashing on a bike and landing rough. To take the full force of you falling watch first onto the ground while trying to climb a wall. This is actually the perfect watch for someone who's accident prone.
@@ritageraghty3261 But then you could send it to Marshal and get another video :)
Could not stop watching it till it ended. What truly amazes me is amount of experience you have to memorize all those parts coming together in the correct order and places where they belong without a mix-up. Great job.
fr, i woulda messed that shit up
@@plaguedoctor4397 fr fr
😀👍