A gorgeous 1966 Omega - but is it what it seems?

[@slashdotism]

33:10 A refinished dial is not something I would buy but I'd wear it no problem if I had inherited it for instance. My main problem with refinished dials is the dishonesty of sellers. People who try to sell off clearly repainted dials as originals. I like my watches original. Every hairline has a story. That being said, refurbishing a beaten up watch and letting it get a new life is totally fine as long as it's being sold as a refurbished watch. Those are my 2 øre.

[@VintageWatchServices]

That is pretty much spot on, George. It is always better to be transparent about things that the buyer will find out about anyway, but unfortunately so many refinished watches are sold with a lack of honesty...

[@muffemod]

I like patina on dials but if the dial is very damaged or destroyed and mostly illegible; I think it can warrant a redial. One of my watches has a very nice redial to look like original.

[@johnvaluk1401]

@@muffemod yes there is a difference between patina and damage.

[@anibaluriarte3676]

I agree 100%. But they are not targeting people like us. For ex, I pay for honesty without bargaining. But those scavengers are feeding their thirst from people who like to hear what they want and are blinded from surface and not substance

[@donnyboon2896]

@@muffemod _ Patina is corrosion.

[@donbailey1934]

I'm sure that 99.99% of non-Watch nerds would never know that the watch has been redialed. It's beautiful and you did a great job. Would I wear the watch? Yes, if the price was reduced substantially to reflect the redial.

[@kn4cc755]

It's a good looking watch for daily wear and I would happily wear it. Omegas are not uncommon nor are they crafted to the highest standard. So to have them as a part of a collection is not so desirable. I first observed my father as he did watchmaking when I was about ten years old - in the mid-fifties. I did learn the basics of the trade but my father adamantly discouraged my following him. He said, correctly as it turned out, that watchmaking would become moribund and by 1960 his fears became reality with the introduction of the Bulova Accutron. We all know the history of watches from there on. Sort of ironic but he gave me a Spaceview version of it for my high school graduation. It still have it and it's my prize. I am pleased to see something of a resurgence of appreciation for quality mechanical watches and I enjoy looking over your shoulder as I once did at my father's bench. Thanks for that time machine.

[@johnbergen9663]

What amazing knowledge, skill and fine motor control of your hands!

[@franciscojosemari4707]

Love your videos. I would not buy a refinished watch. But yes, I would wear it. Specially this one....its a beauty.

[@Avetarx]

Refinished or not, this watch looks gorgeous and classy, and runs great after a proper service!

[@VintageWatchServices]

It is a beauty for sure :)

[@larryscott3982]

The hands look like crap. Maybe the previous guy made them

[@davidcrandall4958]

The "service" will cost much more than the watch and the watch is not inexpensive!

[@DirtyBob200X]

Jumped out of an airplane juggling running chainsaws while they are on fire. Dude you are super talented.

[@VintageWatchServices]

I didn't mention how many fingers I lost nor how long I spent in the hospital 😎

[@DirtyBob200X]

@@VintageWatchServices I'm hoping you wasn't bareass nekid, could have lost something else.

[@scofab]

I don't mind what people think about what I do to my personal watches, because I build them for myself and nobody else. Of course working on something for somebody else is a different matter entirely... but if they want something altered so be it. "Special orders don't upset us, have it your way". If you remember that line then you're about as old as I am... Beautiful job, thank you once again.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much :)

[@red75v67]

I never get bored of watching beautiful Omega movements. Well done spotting the setting lever by the way. Thanks Stian.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks, Howard!

[@Coolcmsc]

Recently found your Chan. It’s easily the best of its type. Thank you!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@steveblackbird]

Love all watches, restored or original. As long as it's disclosed at the sale it's been refurbished. I'm one that loves bringing back not so old watches to looking like new again as most of my collection is under 25 years old. Learning metal refinishing and practising on junk cheap watches has helped tremendously. I never sell... just hoard all the watches lol. Have a particular taste...lots of subdials, day dates and the like. I'd love to learn how to reverse the colour of my date wheels from white with black font, to black with white font but have little idea outside water slides, or colour printing on decal sheets. replacement wheels are not available. Congrats on 25k+ subs!! I've been very much enjoying your channel!

[@thomasgabriel2213]

I would not have refinished the watch originally, but you were not given the option. You received it this way and have restored it to its proper glory, refinished face and all. Its a beautiful watch and unless you knew a great deal about this particular watch I don't believe anyone would know the difference. Obviously a collector or enthusiast would, and would not likely buy this watch or have it refinished this way, but again you received it this way. Awesome video!! Keep them coming!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks Thomas! We don't know what condition the dial was in, so it's not really possible to say whether it was a good choice to refinish it. Hopefully it was in really, really bad condition 😉

[@grahamhall2662]

What a beautiful watch. I loved the inside as much as the exterior and yes I would wear it any day. The gold copper colour of the movement is to die for. Thank you for posting.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks for watching!

[@davidf7883]

I wouldn't have any problem with the refinished dial. It's still a very attractive watch. I'd actually like to see how dials are professionally refinished. I think that would be interesting. Great videos by the way. I watch them as much for the commentary as anything else. I love the humor, interesting stories, and especially the history and explanations you provide. Keep up the good work!

[@jthampshire]

Exactly my thoughts. This channel is informative and entertaining.

[@OCW301-79]

Refinish dial

[@robertbrandywine]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqKsXqGEicSfoNU kzbin.info/www/bejne/i2XUiWV8hJ2BgsU

[@jasonmaccoul]

My second time watching the video. I’ve had additional thoughts on the dial: most of the things we own have been refinished or altered. From our homes to our cars. Nothing stays the same in appearance. Even we ourselves change! So this, to me, is cosmetic. Even as a rare collector. The important bit is the Omega craftsmanship and inner workings. Great job on the setting lever discovery. This Omega has had to under go some defacing in its life, but you’ve given it back it’s respect! And great to see you’ve gone from 20k subscribers to well over 50k now!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks, Jason!

[@magh1]

Love your channel. I have a modest collection of watches - mostly various family watches including an Omega Bumper with a solid gold case from (I think) the late 50's that was my late father's. I prefer a watch that is as authentic as possible, but some watches, even restored, just look so darn good, and this is one of them. I would wear it, and even buy it for the right price (if sold honestly as having an incorrectly restored dial.)

[@RestorationWatch]

I absolutely LOVE Omega watches. They are my favourite in regards to design and the quality of their movements. I like watching the non-chronograph videos the most because I just love seeing the escapement operate rather than be hidden under all that complexity, which is also why I love the display back on the later Omegas with the spectacular machining on the rotors. As a fastidious restorer myself, I was disappointed by the fact that the finish on this watch dial had bits of dust under it that ruined the finish, and if you are going to do such a thing, I would have refinished the indices as well as the hour and minute hands to bring it back to an as-new appearance. It's also unacceptable that the graphics were changed, although that was the least of my concerns overall. All that said, it is a gorgeous, simple watch design and one of my favourites to date from Omega. I was amazed by the movement's accuracy. Thank again for sharing!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks for watching!

[@patrickhyde2502]

As long as the refinished dial is fully disclosed when selling, it’s ok. This should be reflected in the price as well. If a dial got completely damaged, refinishing is much better than being garbage.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Absolutely spot on, Patrick 👍

[@davidcrandall4958]

It is never reflected in the price!

[@AVEEGEELIK]

Congratulations with the 20K, well deserved. Onwards to the 50K then! And I would not mind a refinished dial looking good like this one.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, and onwards indeed! This is certainly a beautiful watch, and most people would focus on that and not bother with the whole pandora's box of refinished vs original 😁

[@patbrown5168]

Thank you for all of the explanation of the functions of the various part. (retired engineer)

[@walther9161]

I don’t mind refinished dials on my watches because I’m not a collector nor do I buy them to re-sell them, so it only matters if I like it or not. With that said… I would want it redone correctly though. Congrats on the 20k!Another edutaining video. Can’t get enough of them!!!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Walther :) The issue with refinishing dials is that to make them completely like they originally were you would need the exactly correct printing plates... and those are very difficult to find for old watches.

[@walther9161]

Very true. For your viewer’s info: Bill & sons in the UK say they can do an exact match to original or a very close match at differing prices. Here in the states, Kirk Rich dials make the same claim except they say they have the “dies” whether they got their hands on actual Heuer tooling, I don’t know. So, I’ll have to investigate further and will comment once I achieve something. Thank you for the videos!!

[@mickboakes7023]

I have to admit to an addiction. It’s watching your channel. I am very envious of your skills and patience which is accompanied by the light hearted banter. Brilliant. Of course I’ve subscribed and am enjoying going back over previous video’s. Stay safe. All the very best. Mick🇬🇧

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thank you very much, Mick! 😊👍

[@renebollengier1111]

I’m not a collector, so yes I would wear that watch with pride. I love the simple dials, especially w/o the date.

[@Biblicalgiants]

That Omega black dial is nice! Wow! I have a 1965 Omega with a 560 caliber. It's nice but everytime the caseback has to be removed the o ring has to be replaced due to some wear on the screw on caseback threads I guess. Great upload!

[@jatco84]

Originality is always the best route for those who really care. But this repair/service you've done is excellent.. and if the dial not being original isn't a concern, I'd be happy to wear it because it's been serviced by you... Kudos..

[@DavidBrown-it9ig]

Love it! I would wear it without hesitation. Love old Omegas regardless of their backstory.

[@MrDpigott]

I am of the opinion if it looks good I would wear it but as for my collection it would not be considered. Really enjoy the banter and the knowledge displayed. Thank you!

[@leopdion5976]

Honestly I think this watch looks beautiful regardless of whether it was repainted or not

[@petercavanaugh6510]

Thank you sir for your reply. My 1960 Omega Seamaster is being serviced here in Connecticut USA. This is the first time I’ve had a vintage watch serviced. My cost is $800. Which is almost what I paid for the watch 5 years ago. The watch ran fine but was progressively more difficult to wind. Thank you again!

[@VintageWatchServices]

$800? 😳 That sounds crazy. Is that with an Omega store then?

[@BryanSellwood]

I love the watch. I'd buy it if I could afford it. I wish I could get my '70s vintage Tissot PR516 serviced and restored but I could buy a good modern watch for what it might cost. Keep up the excellent work, sir.

[@hanseikhof870]

Thank you for all your entertaining descriptions, I have learned a lot about timepieces. For a little over 45 years I had a Rolex Submariner on my wrist, accurate and reliable and the adventures it survived were hard to believe, that is a story beyond this Omega service. Regarding refinishing dials I do not care for any restoration that affects original integrity. Gears and pinions, wheels and springs and jewels can be fixed or replaced, of course. That should be it. The fading or changes in finish, or any other signs of age tell the story of endurance and service. Cheers!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Hans! There is a point at which a dial is so badly damaged that the owner won't wear the watch anymore, and then I think refinishing the dial is the better choice. But of course, a nicely aged dial should be left as is 👍

[@tracyhendenshott7119]

I would proudly wear that refinished dial! Have to assume the original finish was severely damaged. Congrats on the 20,000....and I'm sure you have many more in your future!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Tracy, that's very nice of you :) And it is indeed a beautiful dial, objectively.

[@rachelm9990]

Your rants are the best part!

[@HarmSalomons]

I stopped using a wrist watch some three years ago. There is always a mobile phone or computer screen available... But that does not mean that I don't llike these interesting videos. Keep up the good work!

[@VintageWatchServices]

I don't even wear a watch myself that much! It's like you say, time is displayed everywhere nowadays. Mechanical watches are still very fascinating to me though :)

[@oxfamshop]

I would love to wear that watch . It looks great and the movement inside being genuine is all you need

[@bernardwastiaux1920]

First, I'm glad to have found your channel. Calm voice, clear elocution, excellent quality of the camera work, all making it very pleasant to follow the process. There's something about the repainted dial I feel uneasy about. It just doesn't match. I'm no collector, but I'm familiar with watches of that time, simply because of my age. These dials are supposed to show a patina, just as I do. Repainting is just as crazy as putting polyester lacquer on a Bechstein piano from the twenties. If you don't want to pay the fourty hours of French polishing, leave it as it is, with all the blemishes. When restoring you don't make irreversible changes applying an inferior technique. Even not sure whether the original dial was black. There is as well the purely legal aspect of infringement of Omega's rights. In this case, the dial not being authentic is evident. But as a brand I wouldn't be very happy with it. Only Omega is allowed to put his name and marks on it.

[@Vidar.m]

Looks great. I would been proud of that watch

[@trailerpark948]

Beautiful watch. Elegant.Good job.

[@jonabitstream]

The dial on the Seamaster ('59) I inherited from my father was covered with flakes of the original lacquer that had come loose. As a "patina", it did not look good, and functionally all those flakes of old lacquer threatened to foul the movement over time, so I had it re-dialed. I was mostly satisfied with the result, but just as you noted for this watch, not all the fonts were correct. In this case it was the shape of the S in Seamaster. The redial used an S that Omega did use, but it was not the S that this particular model used.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Yeah, that's the issue; there were so many variations back in the day, and if the redialer doesn't have the exact printing plate, the result will be slightly different from the original...

[@garysmith7545]

Hello Stian! I don't currently own any used watches. I'd likely wear the one you just showed however I find the gold hands and markers at odds with the case. That said, I do have a handsome Bulova with a black dial, gold hands and gold primary marks with a stainless case but the gold is very much less obvious. I won't wear brown shoes with a black belt and I won't wear a black watch strap with a brown shoes or belt. But I'm strange anyway. I have a Omega 620 movement that I'll be tearing down at some point. It has the same copper plating on the plates and bridges. The Buren that I just went to reassembly has a broken setting lever spring and I'm not certain if I'm going to go in search of a replacement that will likely cost more than I paid for the movement. Thanks for giving me something to watch on a Saturday morning. Your voice is very soothing... 🙂

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much for that, Gary, and I was actually struggling with the exact same color choice when I put on a new strap! In general my rule is that a gold(en) watch should have a brown strap and a steel watch a black strap, but when you have a black dial, what do you do? Ultimately I decided on a black strap but a dark brown one would probably work also. Or maybe a pink one! 😁

[@garysmith7545]

@@VintageWatchServices A pink strap would mess up my belt and shoes selection. 😃

[@waynecurles1618]

I greatly appreciated this video as I have my Dad's watch, Omega, looks very similar, a Constellation. It is my goal to complete a service on his watch one day and get it running, this video (and others) will be very helpful as I continue to work on my watch services skills. Thank you and I very much enjoy the channel.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks for that Wayne! Good luck and one step at a time :)

[@wernerp.1793]

... and - thank you for your videos, which I really appriciate... full of information and fine sense of humor!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Glad you like them, Werner!

[@pippomai9559]

Ciao Stian. Wonderful watch as usual . I really appreciate when you zoom in to see all the parts more clearly. Is so nice seems that I am inside the watch. Spare parts are always important , and the right one have to be used. Bravo !

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks a lot! I have gotten myself a new camera that has a much higher resolution :)

[@res00xua]

Thanks for a new one. Hope you are well.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks, Stephen, you too!

[@karma247ajm]

Great video. I would say a dial should only be repaired as a last resort, but it also depends on the watch and the history behind the damage / patina. Best to replace the dial and keep the old one, so it can always be put back to original.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks Andrew! The dial itself is the original piece of metal, but it was stripped down to the metal and then repainted.

[@adrianbirkett594]

Hi Stian, love that watch. Wouldn't bother me in the slightest!, I do like original but some of these dials are toast!. I feel such a high end watch deserves a face lift, the dial gives so much pleasure and valuable information. I am always stunned at the knowledge you have attained over the years, and you share it easily. Thank you and congratulations on 20,000, fully deserved. Adrian.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much Adrian, that is very nice to hear :) And yes, original dial > refinished one, but refinished one > badly damaged original dial 😁

[@dalewilliams9589]

35:31 I’m new to your channel. The nice thing about what you do is your work is “timeless“ [Pun intended], and your videos will be enjoyed in years to come probably as much as they are the day you post them. The answer to the question you pose is straightforward , from my perspective. If the watch dial is damaged, then it should be refinished as long as the buyer knows the details. That said, dial refinishing should be done properly, and that apparently is not easy. Speaking for myself, I would like to see you service some American watches, particularly pre-and post-world war two Hamiltons.

[@johnutting9615]

Nice job ,very good result. With respect to refinished dials there comes a time when a new old stock dial is unavailable and the only recourse is to have it redone. I have a small rose Tudor from 1950s which had a silvered dial which had gone to dust. No option, just wear it and enjoy .

[@stayingsane5213]

I tend to agree with you that dial should not be re-finished unless they are so bad that they become useless. Since we have no idea what the dial looked like before it was re-finished, I don't think I can say if it should have be done or not. I've never attempted to finish a dial myself, so I cannot tell if it's easy or hard to get the exact match. Great video as usual, thanks for sharing

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much and you've really said all there is to say... The issue with refinishing dials is that to make them completely like they originally were you would need the exactly correct printing plates... and those are very difficult to find for old watches.

[@peterdeblois960]

Greetings from New Zealand. I think this is a stunning watch and I'd be very proud to wear it. I love watching your channel and appreciate your knowledge and commentary.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Peter :)

[@djinconroe]

I'd wear it with pride. Refurbished items don't bother me assuming they were done well, and not being passed off as mint condition originals. Great job. Enjoyed the video.

[@milanchristi7939]

Congratulations on the 20K mark!! It's well-deserved recognition of the high quality video and craftsmanship. Bravo! I'm not a collector - I just have a lot of watches - so a refinished dial wouldn't bother me so long as it was explained before the sale. In this case I don't care for the dial so the watch wouldn't have grabbed my attention. I like the Omega gilt dials.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Milan :) Honesty is indeed lacking too much of the time...

[@talesmaschio]

I’m very happy to have found your channel. The videos are excellent! You’re a true master of the craft. I’ve been watching watch channels for a few years now but it’s in your videos that I found the most valuable info about the mechanisms and how they work, the functions of each part, and oh gosh finally someone who shows how to properly lub a watch. Ah and the jokes are good too. Mostly 😂😂 Cheers! Best wishes!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Welcome aboard! 😁

[@fichambawelby2632]

Wonderful watch, and as ever, wonderful job. Thank you for sharing your mastery with us. It is always a pleasure to see you in action.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much for that :)

[@witzed1]

Stian, Thanks again for another philosophy of life lesson and a great watch assembly video as well. I really appreciate the work that you put into your channel and the rapport that you must develop with you viewers. My wife doesn't understand what I get out of watching but oh well. I spent some time in Biel/Bienne for my work as watch manufacturers helped us create implantable medical devices. I developed my appreciation for watches during that time.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks a lot for your kind words! And your wife probably has a better sense of humor than you and me 😉

[@forestranger312]

I think there’s room for all tastes in watches to exist. Completely original or expertly refinished. I prefer originality and like an old watch to look old. But if you buy an omega 60’s - 70’s watch that’s got a dial so far gone it’s not useable and paid £500 for it. Prepare to pay another £200 on an original looking replacement dial. I understand why people repaint and think it’s down to the size of your pocket. The quality of this man’s work is outstanding and his knowledge given freely and in such a lovely way is a joy. He must have an understanding wife.

[@VintageWatchServices]

😂 Thanks!

[@richardmcmellon216]

I have really been enjoying watching your videos. They have reinspired me a great deal. Watchmaking has been in our family for five generations, well six if I get back into it.

[@VintageWatchServices]

That is very nice to hear, Richard!

[@benfoust7424]

I'd wear it in a heart beat! Another great video, thank you for sharing!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks a lot, Ben!

[@johnhjic2]

Hello, First of all thank you for all your interesting videos. For me refinishing a dial is something that would only need doing for the very worst case. But just a light cleaning and tidying is OK. Keep well, keep safe and enjoy life.

[@ydnartitcomb1]

As always excellent work, as far as the dial is concerned, if it was in real bad shape I might have a new one made , but keep the original as is and with the watch that can be replaced if desired or if another collector purchases the watch they will have the original

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks Randy! The decision point must indeed be whether the dial is too far gone or not. The issue with refinishing dials is that to make them completely like they originally were you would need the exactly correct printing plates... and those are very difficult to find for old watches.

[@MrLukealbanese]

I like the look of the watch, the black dial is fine, if a touch shiny. Great work Stian.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks a lot, Luke! The glossiness is actually as it should be, there were some dials like this :)

[@hugejohnson5011]

The watch and I are of the same vintage, '66! Thanks for the informative video as usual.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks for watching!

[@angelherrera6820]

Congratulations on reaching 20,000 subscribers! Glad to see your channel growing because your content is excellent. Continued success! Cheers!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Angel :)

[@offshoretechie]

Love the video and the watch. I have no problem getting or wearing a dial like that, as long as you know it and buy with full disclosure. There are beautiful ones to be had that the collectors don’t touch and leave for the rest of us mere mortals 😃

[@VintageWatchServices]

Well said and entirely accurate for 99.99% of watch buyers :)

[@MrDutchVegas]

I also collect watches but i only buy watches i like and look nice to me. A refinshed dail is no issue for me if i like it.. I even own some Casio digital quartz watches. But i do own some nice vintage watches. I love the channel...

[@sweetCaroline65]

I love vintage watches for what they are made of and how they work. I do like them to look close to new, but that's just me. I'd wear it!

[@fubarmodelyard1392]

It's a beautiful watch that I would be happy to wear. Probably not a lot of people would stop to point out it's not original

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks for sharing your opinion! No, not many people would be able to point that out 😁

[@ryeshyes2552]

Redials.....Calendar becomes Calender. Constellation becomes Consternation.... Love the vids! Thank you!

[@VintageWatchServices]

😂 I suppose a refinished Constellation would provide some consternation :)

[@ryeshyes2552]

@@VintageWatchServices 😂😂! My apologies for a noob question: in measuring the length of the hands, do i start at the 'axle hole' or measure tip to tip? I am developing a 'slight' anxiety as what i measure on the watch doesnt correspond with anything listed on ebay. Its an Omega 2846/501...and yes....there were plenty of variations back then....Thanks a lot! Take care!

[@michaellawrence6677]

It’s a nice looking watch. I’d be proud to wear it.

[@jwoodyr1]

Thanks for another fantastic video, Stian!! My comments might read like a broken record but it's the truth. I watch a lot of KZbin watchmaking videos and yours stand proud in every regard. Regarding the redone dial, I would not buy that watch unless the price was very low. Even then, I likely wouldn't wear it very often. In 40's - 70's vintage watches, how common are pallet fork bridges with integrated banking pins? It seems such a good, simple idea I wonder why it wasn't commonplace. Thanks again!!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks again to you also, Woody :) Pallet fork bridges with integrated banking pins wasn't really made until the 70's. It was much easier to machine two banking pins and press them into the mainplate than to machine a pallet fork bridge/cock with them integrated.

[@SorexSan]

I would wear it without the blink of an eye. It looks vintage and gives you some kind of strong personality. It realy doesn.t matter what other people would say ... i don.t care. Old watches are always builded with responsability, for sure. All those watchmakers long time ago had a religious respect for this craftmanship ... and here are the results. Congratulations for this wonderful rebuild as well like many others ! Keep em coming and for sure i will be here to watch. RESPECT !!!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Sorin, that's very nice to hear :) And yes, it's a beautiful watch!

[@goodphotoideas]

Thanks for all the explanations. Among other things, I never knew the difference between a wheel and a pinion, or the notches of the setting lever. Can't way to see your other videos.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Glad to help!

[@ygrbooks]

You deserve at least 1'000'000 subscribers, because your videos and comments are just wonderful: thank you so much. The references to Sherlock Homes were much appreciated as is your honesty. This dial is a sad story. If you really have to redo it, do it correctly. Using wrong fonts or printing are total no-goes. I sometimes wonder at the length some people will go to restore an object, but fail to go all the way. It is these small details that make all the effort worth the trouble. Without them, the new owner will always know that there are mistakes. The value of this beautiful watch now only lies in the movement and the case. And watch collectors are known to go crazy over dials ...

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much for that :) The dial refinishing is pretty well done, but it is a big challenge to find the completely correct printing plate for old dials. A lot of the time it comes down to a choice of either keeping a damaged dial (and if it isn't damaged it should obviously not be refinished in the first place) or to accept that there might be a couple of discrepancies to the original. And yes, watch collectors definitely focus a lot on the dial and the watch's originality, but most watch buyers just buy something they like the looks of. Given that this watch will be sold at a lower value than a comparable condition watch with the original dial, that's actually a great benefit to those people. Who's right on this I don't really know, to be honest... I certainly am in the originality camp as far as possible, but maybe the more pragmatic choice is actually better.

[@ygrbooks]

@@VintageWatchServices You are right: someone will love this watch as it is really beautiful. And I have heard from several watchmakers that finding the absolutely correct dial layout can be extremely time consuming, tricky and costly. Once you have the 1'00'000 subscribers you deserve, I will certainly send you a nice bottle of malt.

[@jprichard]

You always notice when there are wrong replacement parts and fix all the dumb errors of others. I would completely trust you to work on any watch of mine, not that I have any that are valuable enough to fix (well, maybe my Omega Electronic f300Hz Constellation that's not running). Thanks for another great video!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much for that, James :) I don't have the equipment to work on electronic watches, I'm afraid, but your watch is a historical one!

[@PpaStrmpf]

The dial is the face of the watch. Making it more beautiful is not a crime in my book as long as it keeps the original DNA like this one. I'd like just to know from the seller what I am buying. Some dials shouldn't be touched as they distinct them from others. Anyway watch is beautiful.

[@VintageWatchServices]

I think you're very right in that assessment. At some point a dial is too far gone to leave it be, and the real question is when one decides that is.

[@michaelbedford8017]

Congratulations (big time!) on your 20k subscribers. On the redial issue, I think every case has to be judged on its merits, depending on: 1) the state of the dial 2) the quality and correctness of the redial 3) the history of the particular watch in question. Although the consensus seems to be on the side of 'leave it alone' in the watch world, it's worth noting that this is an arbitary rule. In the case of 'fine art' and 'vintage cars' the consensus is entirely the opposite.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks Michael and you make a very salient point. The decision should really be based on "Will refinishing the dial improve the sentimental/financial value of the watch or not?". And it's a pretty recent development that watches are valued with an original but clearly aged dial....

[@olafvidar9315]

I like the refinished dial. It's a gorgeous piece.

[@VintageWatchServices]

It is a beauty! 😍

[@johnpinner1]

The dial was well refinish looks awesome

[@VintageWatchServices]

It's a beautiful dial for sure!

[@timstephens5187]

Nothing to add about the dial conversation - honesty above all. I do think transparency should be extended to all aspects of a vintage watch. Just picked up a serviced Seamaster and am less than thrilled about the condition of the movement; plating worn and minor rust stains. It does run well and the case and dial look great- oh well.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Honesty above all indeed. The movement shouldn't have a lot of wear unless there's been rubbing, and metal sometimes stains a bit over time, but on the other hand you probably won't see it that often :)

[@timstephens5187]

@@VintageWatchServices you're right. I'm just nitpicking. Adventures in ebay bargains

[@UnivegaSuperSport]

22:24 I'm guessing that mark on the end of the pallet stone serves a purpose? Is it a centering mark? Or possibly just a mark from where the escape wheel teeth have contacted it?

[@VintageWatchServices]

It's a tiny amount of oil that has crept over on the side. Ideally it shouldn't be there, it's an indication I used a little bit too much oil 😉

[@HAL-xy3om]

Nice watch and great work on the dial! If the dial is sold as refurbished, I have no problem with it!

[@VintageWatchServices]

👍

[@alanpreston3111]

Love your stuff 👏🏻👏🏻… especially the sound effect of the watch case being dropped into the cleaning fluid .. reminds me of the sound of a mine scrapping across the side of a submarine 😂😂… very eerie 🥺🥺

[@VintageWatchServices]

😁👍

[@lennemoy1971]

Beautiful watch! I would love to wear that!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks!

[@MrGrentch]

Great vid as usual Sir. 🙂 You deserve every view you get. The refinished dial as a bad thing is quite recent. Since old watches became collectibles. I remember my maternal grandfather getting his dial "cleaned"(not a euphemism 😁). My dad sent one of his Longines back to the factory(by post in an envelope, with some cardboard for "safety" with lots of stamps 😳🙂) to get his watch serviced and the dial "cleaned". It was quite common in the Old Days(tm). You tend to see more redials from hotter climates and in non diver watches(better sealing). I suppose the problem latterly is when unscrupulous sellers and dealers do it to increase the prices. Black dialled Omegas of that vintage were very rare(outside military type watches black dials were rare anyway) and IIRC one was shown in the TV series Mad Men, so black dialled Omegas became more valuable. I've seen a few redials in some premium auction house sales.

[@VintageWatchServices]

You are spot on! And I don't mean only with the views of my channel 😁 Just a few decades ago the threshold for refinishing dials was much lower than it is now, the love of patina and aged looks is relatively recent. And yes, honesty about it is often sorely lacking. If a seller says "the dial was unfortunately badly damaged, so we decided to have it refinished and it looks very nice now", most people would take that as a positive thing. But when they are evasive or even claiming it's original, that obliterates trust.

[@robertiddon9270]

You are not an idiot, I wish I had your skills, you are a craftsman 👍

[@TPINSC]

I have no problem with it if it is just a watch I bought to wear. If it were an heirloom I would probably want it original. I would be proud to wear this watch!

[@daves6259]

Beautiful job, Sir Keep it up

[@robertjordan7323]

I love the black dial over the white.

[@anthonywatkins2783]

Very classy looking watch and a great video, thank you for sharing. 👍

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks for watching, Anthony!

[@derekwilkinson7939]

I think it’s a very good looking watch, I would wear it no problem. Congratulations on 20k subscribers Stian, great video.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, Derek :)

[@robertbrandywine]

I think the refinished dial looks great -- higher quality than the original. I've watched a couple of these specialty dial refinishing shop channels and they put a great deal of work into redoing them.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Fair enough!

[@clivewiddall3430]

If it looks to good to be true springs to mind, still a lovely watch when all said and done, made even better by your magical touch.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Many thanks, Clive!

[@bfx8185]

I have nothing against refinishing any part of watch. But only in case it's beaten too much. And it should be done properly. Thx for nice video!

[@VintageWatchServices]

Absolutely agree!

[@boydsargeant7496]

Great video Stian! Re the dual, if I didn’t know better, or the price was very low then I’d be happy because it looked great. I’m with you though that original is best and under restored is better than over doing it. I also had to do hammer time today in a serious way the hole for the arbour on a 1919 wrist watch, the hole is bigger than my broaches so I need the next set up! I loved the look/colour of this movement, I must get myself a vintage Omega. Also the design of the movement looked different. I noticed the springs looked tricky, you even used a probe to help you, rather than your often risky one handed spring work, you scare the dickens out of me😲. I picked up a good price vintage Modavo this week, so looking forward to working on that soon, it needs a new crystal and a service, it’s running 5mins slow a day.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks a lot, Boyd, and congrats on your Movado! I do indeed get a bit lazy sometimes with springs and try to remind myself that I should show good habits in the videos :) And yes, you should get yourself a nice vintage Omega, they really made superb quality watches back in the day!

[@kswaminathan5439]

Such a beautiful watch. The rose gold colour movement is awesome. I remember during my school and college days, wearing an Omega watch was a status symbol. I mean during the 60s and 70s. I am not too sure whether Rolex watches enjoyed that reputation those days. Nevertheless an engrossing video. To me, the dial looks gorgeous even though it is a painted dial. Heartiest congratulations on getting 20000 viewers. Good luck for more.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, K 😊

[@nikolaslarson6891]

The watch is beautiful. The changes were done tastefully and the movement works well. I would wear it with a lot of pleasure also knowing that it is one of its kind.

[@VintageWatchServices]

It is indeed a beauty 😍

[@BrunoWiebelt]

a very nice watch ... thanks for the tips to watch out for originality

[@VintageWatchServices]

👍

[@federicoprice2687]

Another superb restoration - and a great commentary. I'm assuming that the original dial was badly damaged and needed a re-paint. Which, despite its flaws, still looks very good. For me, I'd love to wear it as it is - and knowing that the movement is in great order, I'd count on it doing its job very nicely for years to come. So, thanks again!! 😊

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks Federico!

[@jameswilkes3186]

Beautiful watch made better by your efforts. Well done as usual. Yes, I would definitely wear this.

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thanks so much, James 😊

[@petepure3387]

Nicely done Sir. :)

[@VintageWatchServices]

Thank you! Cheers!