Day Date with Upgraded Bezel - 118209

[Coffee1st!]

I imagine every valued timepiece carries with it memories of people and life experiences that are recalled with every quick glance. Some good memories some maybe not so good, but the watch, always present knows no difference, just running along constantly reminding us of past memories and future responsibilities. Amazing little companions aren't they.

I inherited this 118209, NB & NP. The previous owner purchased it used and as part of that transaction the factory smooth bezel was replaced with the fluted bezel. The resale value is dropping on Watch Charts and I never wear the watch and will be selling it in the near future.
I have some "IYHO" questions I'm hoping to get some feedback on:
1) Should I expect a significant loss of value due to the fluted bezel, worth replacing with the smooth?
2) As far as I know the watch is unpolished, given the heavy scratches on the bracelet should I have it polished prior to sale?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated

[MDR143]

Probably not going to get more than what you’ll have to spend to get the smooth..

What’s it going for on WC?

[joli160]

1. On the contrary, the fluted is more popular so i’d keep it on.

2. Yes, nobody buys a scratched up watch. Make sure that a pro does it and don’t touch the crown on the clasp.

[georgekart]

Originally Posted by joli160

1. On the contrary, the fluted is more popular so i’d keep it on.

That's true, but only if the reference number matches the bezel. Otherwise it's technically a franken which nobody wants. So, yes, provided the opportunity it would be better to change the bezel (perhaps when he sends it in for polishing) and possibly selling the fluted bezel separately.

[Bxtek]

I personally prefer the fluted bezel, and I think most others also prefer it. I think it would be selling plus? I know it would be for me. I would just leave it on and disclose it upon sale.

I see you have the card which is a biggie. I would try to buy a box, booklets and put it all together. Those are relatively cheap items. Polishing would definitely help the sale as some of those scratches are quite deep. I'm not sure if it's the photo angle, but that cyclops looks way off center. I would definitely have that re-aligned.

[geoach]

smooth bezel for me less bling more modern look

[Coffee1st!]

Originally Posted by Bxtek

I personally prefer the fluted bezel, and I think most others also prefer it. I think it would be selling plus? I know it would be for me. I would just leave it on and disclose it upon sale.

I see you have the card which is a biggie. I would try to buy a box, booklets and put it all together. Those are relatively cheap items. Polishing would definitely help the sale as some of those scratches are quite deep. I'm not sure if it's the photo angle, but that cyclops looks way off center. I would definitely have that re-aligned.

The PO had the cyclops clocked from the 3:00 to about the 16 second position. He asked his jewler to adjust it so he could see the date without having to look directly down on the dial, made it work for him. I'll definitely get that corrected!

[Coffee1st!]

Originally Posted by MDR143

Probably not going to get more than what you’ll have to spend to get the smooth..

What’s it going for on WC?

As of 12/24/24 118209, watch only, $24,592. $22,908 on 12/18, nice jump.

[Tennesseehorn]

Originally Posted by Coffee1st!

As of 12/24/24 118209, watch only, $24,592. $22,908 on 12/18, nice jump.

Yes, but in what condition for the $24,592 price?

[Coffee1st!]

Originally Posted by Tennesseehorn

Yes, but in what condition for the $24,592 price?

The only condition choices on WC are New, Used or Unknown. I have used selected

[MDR143]

Originally Posted by Coffee1st!

As of 12/24/24 118209, watch only, $24,592. $22,908 on 12/18, nice jump.

I see a few for just under $18k on chrono24. If you can get it then go for it!

[WatchTimes]

Looks like it has been polished to me...

[Coffee1st!]

Originally Posted by WatchTimes

Looks like it has been polished to me...

It very could have been polished considering its age, I only know what the PO told me. He said the jeweler he purchased it from said it hadn’t been polished. Weighing it is probably the only way to tell but I don’t know what it should weigh.

[0nly5iv3Digits]

It's been polished, OP... likely several times. Very glaring signs here.

That said, I wouldn't expect the fluted to make much of difference in real terms. Just note that any educated buyer who has done their diligence will note the discrepancy here, and will likely use said discrepancy as a means to justify a lowball offer.

[CarlOver]

That will be a good looking watch once it’s been properly polished. The lugs look really rounded over but maybe that’s just the photo. If so, there is only so much you can do. The crystal if in great condition needs to readjusted. Good luck.

[S’portEye]

It’s been polished. I would probably just dress it up again (making sure to leave the bezel alone) and wear it, or you could sell after it looks a little better. I don’t think I would replace the bezel.