Very happy with this purchase, cannot wait for it to arrive I love the ‘barn find’ look and want to keep it completely as found, crazed crystal included. Fingers crossed that the full bakelite bezel is not cracked in multiple places (which, if we are completely realistic, it will probably be). And yes, the bracelet will need to go
Thanks guys! Finding a correct crystal for these single crown SC cases is probably very hard… If this crazed one is structurally sound, it stays on!
Some of the Diver-tite crystals fit these fine, just need the right profile. The internal bezeled SC’s are the problem as the crystals need to clear the rotating bezel.
I would think that being crazed and not just scratched it is not suitable for leaving on. Surely a generic dive watch plexi will fit just fine? Great looking watch!
Excellent find and love the shark tooth indices. Im mixed on retaining the crystal though. Thought should change out for a new one to admire beauty of your dial.
Yes will evaluate the watch in person and might feel the same in the end. Based on exact measurements and profile, I’m sure my watchmaker would be able to source a new crystal that is a perfect fit. On the other hand, I really enjoy the look of a used toolwatch…
this bakelite bezel reminds me of this guy. https://watches83.com/en/vintage-bu...h-rare-cal-11afac-compressor-collectors-.html
Unfortunately the structural integrity of the crystal has been severely compromised, as evidenced by the crazing. The crazing is not just on the surface, but extends down into the crystal, often to the full depth and is usually caused by UV exposure. It renders the crystal very fragile and a bump could cause it to break and bits of plastic could get into the dial/hands area. Although it's a beautiful watch, continuing to wear it risks damage to that almost pristine dial. I would find a generic crystal for now, and then start the quest to see if there's a genuine item somewhere out there.
Yes, will have it replaced with a diver-tite generic crystal soon! The current crystal will be well stored of course. It needs to be done as the current crystal is not only crazed but also deformed. Seems to have molten a bit at one stage