Lume: does it degrade based on use or time?

[Vince_76]

Hi all, curious, what leads to lume degrading. is it simply a function of time, or does constant use (e.g., sunlight exposure) speed up the process?

[Dirt]

Originally Posted by Vince_76

Hi all, curious, what leads to lume degrading. is it simply a function of time, or does constant use (e.g., sunlight exposure) speed up the process?

Good question, but hard to say.

If could offer my own personal experience.
One 116660 watch bought new in late 2011 that's primarily worn daily from before dawn for maybe 12-18 hours(depending) with mixed exposure to sunlight and bright W/shop lighting and everything in between.
Another 116660 newer watch from late 2015 bought brand new that's basically only worn on special occassions(maybe up to 6 times a year?) and is kept in a totally dark environment all other times.

The net result as far as i can see.
Both have the exact same luminous qualities(longevity and brightness) as each other siting side by side on the table throughout the whole night even when compared to when the second one was brand new, when i start my little test by holding them together under the bedside lamp for 5 or 6 seconds before turning out the light.
In summary.
No difference between both watches despite the different lives they lead or age.
Hope this helps

[Apdl]

sounds like, no
Modern lume seems to last forever.. not sure
https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=932643

[Vince_76]

Thanks all. That’s quite impressive. Appreciate the insight

[EEpro]

My 20 year old superluminova is the same as day 1.