Refinish dial, or not?

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calalum

·Feb 19, 2026

I get that it is my decision, but if you had this old diver (the one on the left) would you have someone skilled refinish the dial? Not likely selling it soon so that doesn't really come into play. And who is the "go to" guy for this in the US that won't take the watch in and let it sit and would do a great job?

If anyone has a decent original dial I would consider that as well!

Thanks all.

 

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Dan S

·Feb 19, 2026

I wouldn't. Can you give us some of your thought process? Some bits are missing, but what is bothering you about it specifically? Not only will any redial be a poor replica, it will be gilt paint over black, so it won't look anything like a galvanic dial.

 

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Waltesefalcon

·Feb 20, 2026

I might go in for a relume if it were me, but I wouldn't refinish it. Like Dan said the refinisher will not replicate the original dial since they will not use the original galvanic process.

 

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Davidt

·Feb 20, 2026

Good god no.

If you’re really unhappy I’d try and find a service dial and have that relumed rather than redialling this one.

 

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calalum

·Feb 20, 2026

I would just like to have a nice looking original dial. I have been looking for more than 20 years and have only found one, but it was in an auction and I was not the high bidder. I guess the search will continue. Thanks guys.

 

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CikoNemo

·Feb 20, 2026

I think a relume is the best option, I dont know any in the states. But there is a good one in Germany his instagram name is horoluma. He showcases his work there so you can see what a relume can do to a dial.

 

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Larry S

·Feb 20, 2026·Color Commentator for the Hyperbole.

I would do absolutely nothing. Wabi Sabe in spades..Just keep the movement maintained.

 

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BAJJ

·Feb 21, 2026

Each to their own but you would cut the value by up to half by refinishing the dial.

 

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ghce

·Feb 21, 2026

BAJJ

Each to their own but you would cut the value by up to half by refinishing the dial.

Exactly so!

 

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Mark020

·Feb 21, 2026·not the sharpest pencil in the ΩF drawer

Don't. Really don't. Still a nice dial

 

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calalum

·Feb 22, 2026

Thanks for all of the input. My search for a dial will continue. Thank you.