5513 hand discoloration question.

[Albertone]

Hi There,

Newbie question from aspiring vintage Rolex collector.

I've never seen this kind of discoloration on hands before (see pic).

The patina looks OK, but what's the rusty-looking discoloration near the center?

Is it an indication of possible water/moisture damage?

Would you be concerned about buying this watch? I love the looks of it.

Thank you.

[1665fan]

I have seen it before but it’s usually a little more subtle. The watch looks very nice but I would think for a serious collector they would pass unless maybe it was unpolished case or maybe full set...

[05carbondrz]

I’ve read this can be from over oiling,Any truth to that Watchmakers?

[Albertone]

Here's the full image of the watch. Comments welcome.

1973, not a full set, about $14,000.

[watchcrank]

A nos set of tritium hands can be sourced or if no objection can be relumed. I have seen some discoloration cleaned if you are lucky. I see no reason to kick a nice watch to the curb for a part that regularly gets changed at service. As long as it is a really correct complete set that would not deter me from buying a nice watch.

[mrs_LA]

Originally Posted by watchcrank

A nos set of tritium hands can be sourced or if no objection can be relumed. I have seen some discoloration cleaned if you are lucky. I see no reason to kick a nice watch to the curb for a part that regularly gets changed at service. As long as it is a really correct complete set that would not deter me from buying a nice watch.

Has it been known for Rolex to relume during service, if needed? for watches with tritium, I mean.


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[sensui]

Originally Posted by 05carbondrz

I’ve read this can be from over oiling,Any truth to that Watchmakers?

My watchmaker said this to me also in the past.

[Filipão]

I've seen this on many watches with original hands.

IMHO it adds character and it's like patina.

[Fabrice M]

This is very common.

[Filipão]

My own 1675:

[watchcrank]

Originally Posted by mrs_LA

Has it been known for Rolex to relume during service, if needed? for watches with tritium, I mean.


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Rolex replaces the hands with current replacement ones. You would receive new luminous hands.