Okay, maybe it’s not all about the dial, but it is
mostly about the dial. Let’s face it, (bad pun intended) the dial is the first
thing you look at on a watch, whether it be on someone’s wrist, if you’re
examining it, or if it happens to be on your wrist whenever you want to check
the time. I am making the assumption that anyone reading my posts looks at
their watch for the time and not their phone. So, the appearance of the dial is
a major factor in a watches overall desirability.
Now, when dealing with modern watches all you are
looking at is if it is attractive and, in the case of pre-owned, you look for
damaged or aftermarket dials. But, when you get into the world of vintage and
antique watches, there are so many more factors. From these factors begin the
great watch debates that almost everyone has an opinion on, some of which are
bitterly argued. I have actually seen a couple of guy’s stop talking, for a
short time, over a patina argument. Now my personal opinion is that original is
the best possible way to go. So, for me, I would rather have a watch with
Patina or that is faded over a watch that had its dial redone, although no
issues would be best of all. On the other hand, if the dial damage is so bad (I
do consider patina damage) that it detracts too much from the piece, then I
would have to either have the dial redone or replaced (if that option is
available).
Some people actually look for patina on watch dials.
Truthfully, I don’t understand the thinking on this one, but it takes all kinds,
I guess. Of course, being in the business, it helps that there is a market for
these watches that are still good timepieces, in spite of their dials. Those
that do like patina on a vintage watch are also picky in their own way,
specifically when it comes to the evenness of the discoloration. Obviously, no
one would want a dial that is blotchy, but I have seen some reel sticklers in
this category, so much so that they discriminate as much as the highest levels
of connoisseur would over a superior piece.
On the flip side of that coin are those that want
almost every dial redone. If even the tiniest level of discoloration exists or
slight scratching at the remotest level, then off the dial goes to the dial
refinisher. Don’t get me wrong, I understand this a little better than the
patina angle, mostly for the fact that I, myself, like a watch to look as if it
just came out of the box. I just don’t like the idea of taking away the
original condition status of a piece, not to mention I have seen way too many
botched redials to make that move unless it was absolutely necessary.
I could probably go on for hours on the subject of
watch dials, but I’m sure I will have more chances on the subject. I do believe
that the decision of changing or redoing a dial is a point of personal
preferences. My preference is original, unblemished, with no fading or patina,
but those are few and far between in the vintage market. For myself, I wouldn't come off of that criteria but, as they say, the customer is always right, so I
try in business to give a little more options and try to have something for all
types of watch enthusiasts.
My watchmaker had no problems with the movement. He did a
cleaning and oiled it and it is running and is keeping good time. We decided
not to touch the dial. It has some discoloration around the edges and some
spotting on it but, all and all, it is in pretty good shape and still
attractive, so it was left original. We were also able to buff out the crystal
instead of replacing it and it looks as good as a new one. Then, I added a
burgundy DeBeer crocodile grain strap to it for the finishing touch.
