Is this dial easily cleanable?

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Cseko

·Apr 11, 2021

I am considering to buy a watch, so I would have my first waterproof vintage omega, of course I will have to bring it to a watchmaker to make sure about it, but surely at least I'll be able to wash my hand with the watch on it.
But I'm thinking if I'll be able to clean the deal to take out the dots, or not?
What do you think?

 

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gbesq

·Apr 11, 2021

Attempting to clean a dial on a vintage watch usually ends badly. I wouldn't attempt it unless you are prepared to accept the possibility that the dial may be destroyed in the process. If you don't like the way that the dial looks now, probably better to buy a diifferent watch. .

Edited: Apr 11, 2021

 

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Syrte

·Apr 11, 2021

Vintage dials are not cleanable.

 

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Cseko

·Apr 11, 2021

So it's surely some damage of the sun and or of the years? I thought the sometimes a watchmaker can clean it, because it can be also some kind of a dust or similar..

 

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amcclell

·Apr 11, 2021

Nope, sorry. :-(

 

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Dan S

·Apr 11, 2021

IMO, the best rule of thumb is to buy a watch only if you're happy with the dial as it is. They can rarely be improved and it is typically hard to find good replacements.

 

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S.H.

·Apr 11, 2021

Cseko

But I'm thinking if I'll be able to clean the deal to take out the dots, or not??
What do you think?

You won't be able to clean out corrosion pushing trough varnish and paint, and leave no trace... And for the scratches, well, the answer is obvious.

As the others said, if you are not happy with how the dial look, walk away. Plenty of vintage watches waiting to be bought, just adjust your sights. Maybe wait a little before pulling the trigger, look around the forum, ask questions, learn how to assess the condition of a watch from picture. It is a skill that needs practice.

 

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masteroftime

·Apr 11, 2021

Cleaning it successfully is close to impossible unless those dots are specs of dust (though that is rarely the case).

I do want to mention that this watch isn't really "waterproof." They were liberal when using the term back then. You can probably wash your hands with it on, just don't get it wet. It was definitely "water resistant" at one point, but the gasket in the crown especially is likely deteriorated and it definitely isn't very water resistant as it sits.

 

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kingsrider

·Apr 11, 2021

Do NOT listen to the people! you can do it! easy!
Here is what you do. Get yourself some of these

Just go easy, no need to apply a lot pressure. You will be amazed how everything..... I mean the dirt..... comes right off.

 

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JwRosenthal

·Apr 11, 2021

Skip the heartache this one will bring and look for one like this

https://omegaforums.net/threads/omega-seamaster-deville-166-020-in-excellent-condition.130174/

 

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MRC

·Apr 11, 2021

Spots on dials always look worse in photographs than they do on the wrist. I have two spotted white dials but the spots are un-noticeable when wearing the watches. Those spots would not put me off at all.

However I would ask for more photos, having the minute hand over the S of Seamaster might be hiding something. Also there seems to be some of the missing lume from the hands sitting on the dial which is not a good sign.

 

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Men

·Apr 12, 2021

And...check the service history. Rotor bearing seems to be worn out (if not replaced) as there are marks of the rotor on the main plate.

 

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Syrte

·Apr 12, 2021

Also.... isn’t that dial refinished?

 

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Cseko

·Apr 16, 2021

Men

And...check the service history. Rotor bearing seems to be worn out (if not replaced) as there are marks of the rotor on the main plate.

Yes it seems..

 

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Cseko

·Apr 16, 2021

Syrte

Also.... isn’t that dial refinished?

I really don't know :/

 

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tdn-dk

·Apr 17, 2021

I have the same watch and have left the dial untouched is has patina also.
I think the OP's have a redone dial

 

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Darlinboy

·Apr 17, 2021·Pratts! Will I B******S!!!

No dial is 'easily cleanable', and attempts are more often than not a disaster waiting to happen. While we sometimes see exceptional examples of a cleaning posted here or there, they are in fact exceptions.

My rule is don't buy any watch with the idea you will improve the looks of the dial. It's like marrying someone and expecting s/he will change in personality with your influence.

 

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smoothsecondscom

·Apr 17, 2021

If the dial is indeed a redial you could just have it redialed again, it won't be original but it already isn't and you'll be rid of the damage. If you're just looking for a good looking watch and don't care too much about originality it might be worth your while.