What would you guys do?

[Tavli3]

Guys here’s a UV shot it glows like that for about 15 seconds after I shut UV off and then fades
95 % within a minute


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Tavli3

Ok then that opens up a huge debate about what’s original.

I wouldn't say it "opens up" the debate.

The philosphical question of what defines originality was posed by Plato in around 400 BC, and has been discussed ever since.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ship_of_Theseus

But hey, who says we can't resolve it here?

[1watch]

Haven’t read the whole thread, but some early mf have zinc sulfide lume which glows longer after light exposure.

On the other topic, leave the lume alone.



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Tavli3]

So what’s the verdict, original lume?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[saxo3]

Originally Posted by Tavli3

So what’s the verdict, original lume?

For a mid 1960's meters first dial, only about 4-5 % of the tritium can be still active.

Therefore, your dial lume - after UV activation - cannot be tritium but must be either tritium/zinc sulfide or it was relumed.

One would need better photos of your lume dots. Can you see a sponge like surface structure?

[Tavli3]

Yes it is sponge like


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[saxo3]

Originally Posted by Tavli3

Yes it is sponge like


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Then it is tritium/zink sulfide and most likely not relumed.

[springer]

Originally Posted by L.K Johnson

Interesting! So then it might have been re-lumed already in its lifetime?

Can't say. But I would love to see all these watches from forum members that responded to this thread that purchased watches with dial defects, hand defects, case issues etc.

Based on my years of collecting, most collectors prefer a watch without issues. I don't have to tell you how many times that I have been asked questions about a dial, hand or case by potential buyers looking at one of my watches for sale.

I know that almost all collectors like a nice collector watch without issues or faults. I've never ever had someone tell me they are looking for a watch with "character."

Having a piece of lume repaired is not going to destroy the value of a watch anymore than having defective and/or unattractive lume on a watch.

So for those that said having a marker repaired will affect the value of a watch, please respond with examples of a marker being repaired that affects the value of a given watch. I'm not referring to a complete dial relume, but one marker which is being discussed here.

I think that if the marker on a vintage watch has issues, and it bothers the owner or potential buyer, having it properly repaired is a good option or maybe they should move on and find a watch without issues.

Most collectors strive for perfection and value, no matter what you collect - to include watch collectors.

[springer]

Originally Posted by SeeDweller

And most of us agree on what parts are “OK“ to be replaced, and still consider it an “original“ vintage piece.
No one balks with the replacement of a crown or a crystal, or even most internal movement pieces (per appropriate servicing), but I agree with the posters above,… Don’t touch the dial!
And, it’s an awesome watch! Congratulations, OP!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Bob, I hate to break the news to you but buyers for vintage watches with dial issues are almost non existent unless potential buyers have access to a replacement dial.

[SeeDweller]

Originally Posted by springer

Bob, I hate to break the news to you but buyers for vintage watches with dial issues are non existent unless potential buyers have access to a replacement dial.

Not sure what news you’re breaking to me.
We agreed entirely!
I recommended that he NOT touch the dial.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[SeeDweller]

Originally Posted by springer

Bob, I hate to break the news to you but buyers for vintage watches with dial issues are non existent unless potential buyers have access to a replacement dial.

Wait a minute .... your note regarding “watch issues“ was a little unclear.
I think you’re describing the single faulty lume, as an issue that would turn people off.
I was describing a watch that has had a dial re-lumed, as having an issue that would turn people off!

Guess it all depends on the vintage collector, right? I own my share of older pieces, and I know my taste. Obviously, yours is a bit different.
It’s all good, my friend!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[springer]

Originally Posted by SeeDweller

Wait a minute .... your note regarding “watch issues“ was a little unclear.
I think you’re describing the single faulty lume, as an issue that would turn people off.
I was describing a watch that has had a dial re-lumed, as having an issue that would turn people off!

Guess it all depends on the vintage collector, right? I own my share of older pieces, and I know my taste. Obviously, yours is a bit different.
It’s all good, my friend!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I was referring to having a marker repaired which was the original question in this thread. I at no time referring to a complete dial relume which isn't for me.

[SeeDweller]

Originally Posted by springer

I was referring to having a marker repaired which was the original question in this thread. I at no time referring to a complete dial relume which isn't for me.

Well, like I said, we agree!!

(clear communication usually settles most arguments, right?)

Enjoy the rest of your Labor Day!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[1675-David]

Originally Posted by springer

Bob, I hate to break the news to you but buyers for vintage watches with dial issues are almost non existent...

That would be with the exception of tropical dials, cream dials and the legendary electric cactus dial

[saxo3]

The Electric Cactus Dial is beautiful


Source: hqmilton.com

[springer]

Originally Posted by saxo3

The Electric Cactus Dial is beautiful


Source: hqmilton.com

I guess HQMilton was harassed so much about their colorful dial names that they are coming up with new ones. I believe in the past, this was quite possibly called the sunset stardust dial.

[saxo3]

Originally Posted by springer

I guess HQMilton was harassed so much about their colorful dial names that they are coming up with new ones. I believe in the past, this was quite possibly called the sunset stardust dial.

Haha, you are probably right.
Anyhow, however such dials are named by anybody, for me these are defect dials, which I don't want on my vintage watches.

[FrenchBigCrown]

We all have different opinions - and tastes...

My 6538's original dial had deteriorated quite badly - but some collectors seem to like that. Personally, after wearing it for a few days, it made my teeth itch.

So, after a lot of searching and a fair bit of expense, I sourced a service dial and hand set - and had Ivan The Dark Lord 'restore' them to 'like new' - the watch now looks very sharp and I can wear it without the 'patina' bugging me. I'm sure the 'newness' would bug a few enthusiasts - but it's my watch and I'm the one that wears it.

I still have the original dial and hands in the box - and if I ever decide to sell, the buyer can choose whether the reinstate them or not.

To each their own.

Have a great weekend guys. Enjoy your watches and stay safe.

[Tavli3]

Frenchie let’s see some pictures of your 6538 with original dial and hands and before and after shots of the service parts. Very curious to see the evolution of your watch and Ivan’s skill set. I see no fault in your logic. If the new look makes you smile vs having to try scratching your teeth every time you looked at your watch that’s all that counts. And as you say any future buyer if there is ever one has a choice as to which will make him smile.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[FrenchBigCrown]

Originally Posted by Tavli3

Frenchie let’s see some pictures of your 6538 with original dial and hands and before and after shots of the service parts. Very curious to see the evolution of your watch and Ivan’s skill set. I see no fault in your logic. If the new look makes you smile vs having to try scratching your teeth every time you looked at your watch that’s all that counts. And as you say any future buyer if there is ever one has a choice as to which will make him smile.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

The original dial and handset are in the box - in a bank with some other watches ('investment' pieces that I'll never wear) - I don't have any 'before' photos I'm afraid.

I'll get you a shot of the watch with the refurb'd dial though as it's in a watchbox in the house right now. When the football is finished.

[FrenchBigCrown]

Originally Posted by Tavli3

Frenchie let’s see some pictures of your 6538 with original dial and hands and before and after shots of the service parts. Very curious to see the evolution of your watch and Ivan’s skill set. I see no fault in your logic. If the new look makes you smile vs having to try scratching your teeth every time you looked at your watch that’s all that counts. And as you say any future buyer if there is ever one has a choice as to which will make him smile.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

As requested...

[FrenchBigCrown]

I don't have a shot of the original dial right now - but this internet/library photo (not my watch) is of a similar condition.

As I wrote, some folk like this sort of patina/deterioration... and any new owner would have the choice.

[Tavli3]

Wow Ivan did a fantastic job. Putting aside any feelings about collectibility and originality the watch looks amazing. So now you have best of both worlds a great watch that has been rejuvenated and the ability to convert it back to it’s original form with original dial.

It’s scary how good some of these guys can relume a dial. As a buyer you can easily be fooled by an unscrupulous seller. To me I would be super leery of buying a watch with perfect lume that is 60+ yrs old!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[snakeeyes]

Super watches!