Submariner Bezel Fade

[Token74]

Hi all

I really like the look of the faded bezels on some of the older Submariners and am keen to understand what causes the bezel to fade and why do some fade and others not?

Cheers


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[037]

Time. Some are worn by UV exposure and others are worn by sleeves, banging into things, random abrasion while diving (in the case of a Sub) and even inexperienced watchmakers polishing bezels without removing the insert first. But, time out in the sun is usually the main factor for most inserts.

Ones that don't fade are either stored for long periods or don't see much sun exposure (living under a shirt sleeve, for example).

[Cossak]

I’d guess there’s some kind of coating on it, my late model 5 digit sub bezel has held up very well.

[904VT]

I guess since they are aluminum, we could picture what happens to a soda can that has been left out in the sun and results in faded colors.

[tymonster]

Exposure to the elements - salt water, sun, etc. Similar to how tritium lume will change darker over time dependent on how much light it's exposed to. A piece that's gently worn mostly indoors will look a lot different than a piece that's been through its paces which would likely cause some changes to the appearance of the bezel.

[Cooper33]

Usually decades of use and not being safe queens! My 16800 is faded gently and in the last years it has been developing a light blue hue

[Tools]

Bleach and hot-lamps.

[037]

Originally Posted by Tools

Bleach and hot-lamps.

Well played.

[logo]

Everyday for a few months, dip the bezel insert in a glass of salt water then give it 20 min in a tanning bed. It will age nicely, I suspect. Just make sure you keep yourself out of the tanning bed or you will age too (and skin cancer risk).

[Bladeshot]

Originally Posted by Tools

Bleach and hot-lamps.

[lear60man]

Hmmmm interesting. I replaced the bezel insert on my two tone blue sub from circa 2002. It was a daily wear scenario. Got a new insert from a trusted seller here and its noticeably lighter compared to the dial and old bezel.

[othertbone]

Originally Posted by logo

Everyday for a few months, dip the bezel insert in a glass of salt water then give it 20 min in a tanning bed. It will age nicely, I suspect. Just make sure you keep yourself out of the tanning bed or you will age too (and skin cancer risk).

Spray tan would be safer