I assume this was a black dial that saw serious materials failure? But then how did the lettering stay so intact?
I think it might have been a blue dial originally, remembering that thread about blue dials flaking but leaving the font intact. edit: https://omegaforums.net/threads/wha...pe-of-dial-deterioration.105686/#post-1384215
yes from pictures it appears so but we have had a few in the south pacific with similar color change. the dial surface itself is in fact smooth and glossy while the pigment underneath has turned color. the dials are not flaky and the surface and script is stable.
Thank you for the kind words gents. I stand corrected, not a date just indeed, and a 1501 as said above. I’ll check the bracelet and end codes and repost. The dial was originally black and the paint, in between the brass dial plate and laquer has gone the colours you see. The laquer is perfect, gilt print is perfect, just the paint. Colour changes in whatever light it is in. I have not seen one quite like it.
I really like the 1501 gilts because of the negative printing process. Reminds me of the gilt 5513 and 1675 dials. And shiny black piano surfaces. Engine turned bezel is a huge plus, I like them over plain and fluted.
Always amazing how something as simple as a bezel or dial color can totally change the character of a watch. My 1500 says hi.