I picked up a GMT II in its original box, original sales slip, original band etc. The problem is the movement is not running. I took the back off and the weight for the self wind mechanism is all "askew" for lack of a better term. Now, my question is, is there enough residual value to restore this watch, or is it better used for parts. My take is that this is valued around $4000-5000 in pristine condition. You can see it isn't in that shape.

Missing crown

The hands and dial appear to be excellent. It is a T<25 dial. Watch was originally purchased in Cadiz, Navel exchange in 1998.

Last dial shot

The boxes and paperwork are in great shape for their age.

take it with ya to Az and we will see what my watchmaker got to say or what ya asking as is

Mike would you like to sell this watch?

Billy, I would entertain offers. My plan is to take it to a watchmaker next week who is a certified Rolex guy. But, If the right offer came around who knows? As you can see, the watch needs a bezel insert replaced, and I know the movement needs extensive work. The good thing is that I haven't touched it with a tool!
The case would clean up fine I believe, and the band is correct and original and should polish up well.

I got a wild hair and gently pushed the stem with a small tool. The watch started running and is still going. It was in the Hack position! Still needs work on self wind.

got pictures of the guts(movement)

Movement photos posted here

https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/f...6095371/m/5473913387

I sent the watch to Chris Abell to see what he thought. We decided to restore it and here is the finished product. I don't actually have it in hand yet but it sure looks different.

Angle 1

Angle 2

The back side. It was worth restoring. Think I'll keep it for a bit.

This looks great! What a great addition to your collection I am sure.
Dan

nice one .

This watch looked, to me, like a basket case. I got it from an antique place in town and they had sent it to a watchmaker (through a local jeweler) who told them it was "thrashed and needed to be sent to Rolex to get it running". They suggested putting a Quartz movement in it. I guess with a story like that, this is a "true save". If anyone has thoughts of sending a valuable watch off for repair Chris is your man. He stayed in touch both telephonically, and via e mail, worked quickly and did a tremendous job. I recommend visiting his web site and bookmarking it for the future.

He does the same magic to Omega's too.

Regards! Mark

Looks like a great job and I am glad you decided to have the restorations done rather than take a quick profit. Now you have something worthwhile to use and/or resell whenever you choose !!

regards,
bb

Yes Buster. The problem is I'm falling in love with it already. I will eventually either trade or sell. My Gold Datejust is on the big auction site in the cyber world now.