I'm considering a 168.005 pie pan for purchase but all I have I have to review are pictures from the seller. I would prefer one with onyx versus black paint markers. I can't really tell from the pictures. Is there a certain rule of thumb to follow? I know the 561 models are usually onyx but what about the 564? To my knowledge later serial numbers usually means black paint. The one I'm looking at is a 242XXXXXX. Is there a definitive way to tell from pictures or do I need a loupe? Will the serial number give me my answer? Sorry, can't access the pictures right now but I can post later if it will help in the determination. Thanks.
I'd weight condition more than black paint vs onyx markers, its hard to find sharp cases in these dogleg references so trying to find a nice dial and case together isn't easy.
Not sure if this is the angle that will work, but here is the photo I have to offer. Dial is not flawless but the case looks to be in good shape. I think this is going to look pretty decent "in the flesh". Can anyone determine if the markers are onyx or black paint? Sorry, I know it's not much to go on.
Onyx on all markers. Some dials have onyx only on 3 or 4 main ones and the rest painted. The dial has been damaged though with the bump at the 47 minute mark. I've seen it on more than one.
I was hoping this was a smudge on the crystal but I trust your knowledge and experience over mine. Based on some comments around the house, I have a sneaking suspicion that this watch will be "borrowed" by the wife. A little dial issue will not bother her one bit as long as the watch goes well with her nails, shoes, handbag, etc. Price is right so I think it's a go. Thanks for the feedback.
You need to see the dial at an angle. The onyx markers are clearly square, and have depth. Paint, as implied, doesnt have this depth. I have this ref in 18k rose gold - definitely onyx, as are my SS and gold capped versions
bTW the picture you have is not ideal, but i think these are solid onyx battons - if you enlarge the photo, look at the markers at 12 o'c. I think you can see that they are a 3 dimensional batton, vs a thin layer of paint
the 10, 7 and 2 hour markers seem 3 dimensional when you enlarge the pic considerably. The '9' seems empty/paint? Bit curious on the second 'o' on Chronometer though; seems a bit leaning too much to the left. More pics (also of the movement) would do the trick