Two questions in one post

[swish77]

Originally Posted by infinitewill

I wish there was a way to know if my watch was originally glossy or matte face but so far even the dealer can't answer that one for me.

You wrote previously that you remember the dial not having the gold surrounds, which makes sense for an 8.0 serial.

The cross-over is supposed to be in the 8.2-8.3 serial range. I've seen both matte and gloss dials with 8.3 serials, but I've also seen matte dials with 8.4. To be sure, you could search extensively online to see if you can find other 8.0 serial 16800s with gloss dials. You never know.

[springer]

Originally Posted by infinitewill

You folks weren't kidding about 16800 matte dials being pricey. Quoted $2200. I have been in touch with an authorized Rolex dealer and they claim that I can have the face replaced at the factory by including a "hardship" letter explaining my predicament. I would also have to agree to a factory service but all in I may be looking at around $2800-3400. I will keep you posted. I wish there was a way to know if my watch was originally glossy or matte face but so far even the dealer can't answer that one for me.

Actually, $2200 for a matte 16800 dial in excellent condition is a great price. You'd be hard-pressed to find one under $3,000 in decent condition. These vintage Rolex models with matte dials can expect that the dial is a significant part of the watch's value -it can vary anywhere from 30% on up depending on the watch and dial condition.

[infinitewill]

Originally Posted by swish77

You wrote previously that you remember the dial not having the gold surrounds, which makes sense for an 8.0 serial.

The cross-over is supposed to be in the 8.2-8.3 serial range. I've seen both matte and gloss dials with 8.3 serials, but I've also seen matte dials with 8.4. To be sure, you could search extensively online to see if you can find other 8.0 serial 16800s with gloss dials. You never know.

Ah, now I understand what you mean, my serial was 8046XXXX so that should be before the cross over. That would mean I should be looking for the matte dial. Everything else is period correct so I will keep watching for a replacement. Thank you so much for the help!

Will