Restore a Constellation dial or not restore…

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Deeps

·Oct 17, 2023

Hi
My 1956 18k Constellation Calendar Automatic Chronometre has a badly pitted/marked dial. Everything else is in lovely condition. Should I have the dial sympathetically and professionally restored (ie not a brand new look but a cosmetic improvement on what I have) or leave everything well alone and preserve as it is?

 

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Davidt

·Oct 17, 2023

Is that shadow on the top of the 11 o’clock lug or is it where the gold cap has worn through?

 

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gbesq

·Oct 17, 2023

Most here would suggest that you try to find a donor dial from another watch before you resort to restoring the dial. As I’m sure you know, a restoration of the dial - even a sympathetic one - is likely to adversely affect the collectible value of the watch. That being said, if you no longer find the dial attractive and its appearance prevents you from enjoying the watch, then restoration of the dial may be your next best option. Perhaps some other members can provide you with recommendations for competent dial restorers.

 

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Dan S

·Oct 17, 2023

D Deeps

Should I have the dial sympathetically and professionally restored (ie not a brand new look but a cosmetic improvement on what I have)

To be totally honest, I don't really understand what sort of restoration you are referring to. Generally, your only option would be a total refinish, and given the overall condition of the watch, I don't see the point. My thinking would be to either hunt down a replacement dial or to sell the watch as is.

 

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X350 XJR

·Oct 17, 2023·Vintage Omega Aficionado

From an earlier thread today. This is why we don't recommend cleaning or "restoring" dials...

 

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kaplan

·Oct 17, 2023

+1 for the donor dial or donor watch

 

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SOG53

·Oct 17, 2023

Poor photos but case doesn't look lovely. With dial like that one would expect issues with movement and case.
You may get lucky and find a donor dial but I would critically assess the rest of the watch to decide if it’s worth it. IMO doubling down on a mistake is rarely rewarded.

 

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rendo

·Oct 17, 2023

Unless this watch has sentimental value, I would sell it as-is and find a better looking one.

 

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Spruce

·Oct 18, 2023·Sunburst dial fan

rendo

Unless this watch has sentimental value, I would sell it as-is and find a better looking one.

If you sell it, I suggest that you sell the head only and keep the bracelet.

 

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Deeps

·Oct 19, 2023

Thanks everyone
Donor dial it is then!
The gold on the 11 o’clock lug is fine, so that must be a shadow. I do like the watch and I will keep it, along with the bracelet.