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New Ardath 18k Gold Beaded Edge Case

lucreative
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With gold prices being what they are, I finally dug up a thrift store find that I had stored away since I couldn't find too much info about New Ardath before.

However, I realized the case is actually pretty unique and almost Calatrava like in solid 18k heavy gold in a good 34mm size. Anyone have any info about New Ardath and/or this type of coin edge case with fixed lugs? I'm almost tempted to transplant a different dial and movement to make it something I would wear more often. Anyone ever come across this type of case as well?

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JimInOz
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Nice example for a thrift shop find.
I can't tell you much except that it houses an ETA 1080 caliber, the case was made by Fluckiger & Cie, La Chaux-de-Fonds.
 
Larry S
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Why on earth would you destroy a beautiful and wearable watch like this? If not wearing it, sell it to someone who would appreciate it.
 
lucreative
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Larry S Larry S
Why on earth would you destroy a beautiful and wearable watch like this? If not wearing it, sell it to someone who would appreciate it.
Understood. Is changing the dial destroying this watch? The crystal is an awkward thick plastic that I was thinking of changing out
 
redpcar
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Definitely change the crystal. Shallow dome with no bend. That one looks like it was made for a dive watch. Get a one piece or open end strap and enjoy a beautiful watch.
 
Larry S
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lucreative lucreative
Understood. Is changing the dial destroying this watch? The crystal is an awkward thick plastic that I was thinking of changing out
Yes … One thing Ardath was great at was dials. Understand that most of us here are collectors and enthusiasts so your musing is a bit shocking. Get this to a good vintage watchmaker and change that crystal.
 
Larry S
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My Ardath … I’ve thought about moving it along but I fall in love with it again.

IMG_5608.webp
 
lucreative
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Larry S Larry S
Yes … One thing Ardath was great at was dials. Understand that most of us here are collectors and enthusiasts so your musing is a bit shocking. Get this to a good vintage watchmaker and change that crystal.
The ironic thing was that I did take it to my vintage watchmaker today and he said with gold prices it would be better to melt it and get the spot gold price for it. The movement is standard that the dial was not a name people would recognize, but nice. He'll try to find a better crystal for it and it'll probably make it a lot more wearable for me. I do love the case.
 
redpcar
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If you need the money, gold is at an all time high. Gold is better than the USD now so why not wear it.
 
Redondo444
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Just put it for sale here - I am sure you will find someone who appreciates the watch
 
lucreative
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I'm going to see what my watchmaker finds in a suitable crystal to replace the thick ugly "top hat". Gold is getting a lot more appreciation now...lol.
 
Larry S
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lucreative lucreative
The ironic thing was that I did take it to my vintage watchmaker today and he said with gold prices it would be better to melt it and get the spot gold price for it. The movement is standard that the dial was not a name people would recognize, but nice. He'll try to find a better crystal for it and it'll probably make it a lot more wearable for me. I do love the case.
Again around here, we don’t melt unless the watch is hopeless. This is a normal service and an open end strap away from being a nice dress watch.
 
lucreative
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Watchmaker added a new lower domed crystal and cleaned it a little bit. Dial had some bleamishes caused by the wrong crystal, but it's hidden by the crystal's edge. At least the numerals are all there with minimal damage. The size is surprisingly a good 35mm. I'm appreciating the Ardath dial quality and the nice salmon and gold color. I'm going to see if it's more wearable now, but I definetely won't melt this or alter this beauty anymore.

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Edited:
 
lucreative
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Now where to find a open ended strap of good quality? Can't wait to take ths out for a spin. Like getting a new paint job for your vintage car.
 
Larry S
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Hirschstraps.com….Gawd that’s a lovely watch! It forgives you for your evil thoughts. 😁😎 There are a number of suppliers out there.
 
Larry S
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The right NATO style might work as well. Oh and DIBs if you ever decide to part ways.
 
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