Radium on my 6610

MSS · Jan 13, 2020

Hi guys, thank you in advance for sharing your thoughts and to OF for your great work.
Bought this 1959 6610 from a local dealer that I trust, but now having second thoughts...it was cheaper than market because of the incorrect hands and also beacuse not everyone likes radium stains. However, the assumption was that the indexes were not relumed, based on the 3.0 measurement on the geiger counter and minimal UV reaction. I understand vintage collecting is about probabilities not certainties, so can someone with more experience on radium let me know his thoughts?

MSS · Jan 15, 2020

Thanks a lot for your comments.

Geiger measured around 3 uSv/h on top of the crystal. Plots and markers seem very similar to other correct pieces, specially beacuse they look aged as well and it is unlikely 30-40 years ago there was technology to faithfully reproduce luming. Been reading forums, RPR, etc. Apparently even 59-60 watches have much lower readings than early 50s, so a 3uSv/h would fit in the acceptable range (which is quite wide nonetheless).

Also, what does not seem likely to me is that an older relume + newer hands would still produce a 3uSv/reading today, for a 59/60 watch...hur would love to be challenged on my assumptions!

MPWATCH · Jan 15, 2020

How does the lume react to UV?

MSS · Jan 15, 2020

J jimcon11
Geiger readings can vary widely too between how they are calibrated and the model, i.e. if they detect only gamma or alpha and beta as well. They are designed more for environmental use than measuring a watch, so I wouldn't draw any conclusions from your reading.

You aren't going to get any challenge from me, it looks spot on. I've seen people go to great lengths trying to justify the originality of their watch when all signs point otherwise... you're somewhat the opposite case. Just enjoy it 😀

Ahahah...I am wearing it right now and loving it, but thanks for the support! I have a good relationship with the dealer and this is still a high amount of money on the assumption that it was not relumed...meaning that if in doubt I can trade it back...thanks!

MSS · Jan 15, 2020

MPWATCH
How does the lume react to UV?

turns green but fades almost immediately...

Radium on my 6610

MSS

MSS

MPWATCH

MSS

MSS

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