Thoughts on this 168.005

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Hi All,

Looking to get some feedback on this example of a 168.005.

Dial looks decent but not sure on the minute markers. I want to say the dial is not a redial but don't have the most experienced eye. Obviously the crown is not correct (not a huge deal).

Thanks!

 
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Doesn't look like this is a redial, but there are a number of issues worth pointing out.

The dots on the dial don't strike me as dust, but as corrosion marks. In my opinion, this generally isn't an attractive form of patina, and can't be cleaned off of the dial in any way (that I'm aware of). It's up to you whether this is acceptable, but do note that it, as well as the movement, suggest the watch has had some sort of water ingress at some point in its life.

On the subject of the movement, the watch doesn't appear to have been serviced, as there's a substantial amount of detritus in the movement and the inside of the case back. The case back gasket is degraded/deformed and will require replacement.

I'd wager that the case has been polished at least once or twice, but it seems like mainly the case back has borne the brunt of it, and the mid-case seems to be in decent condition.

I personally wouldn't consider picking up this piece unless at a really good deal, at least below 700 USD. And even then, it would likely be as a parts watch, rather than a project watch. This dial variant is not especially rare, so it would be easier (and cheaper, overall) to be patient and look for a better example rather than try to get this restored.
 
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Dial is original. I think one case clamp isnt tightend down. You can See a gap between the tension Ring of the crystal and the dial at the 10-11 position. Crown not correct. Hands original. And its polished, especialy on the back. But if the Price is ok and you Like the look. Why not. But i think it would love to have a service馃槃
 
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I鈥檓 not a fan of the spotty dial either but other than that it looks original.
The outer case back has been heavily polished for some reason.

I鈥檇 like to see the movt serial number as, to have lume and no Ts, it must be a very, very, early 168.005.
 
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Assuming the serial number checks out I think this is an honest watch and it all comes down to price. I think the previous estimate of $700 is a bit harsh, on the open market today somewhere around the low $1000s would probably be fair.

Just keep in mind the cost of a service is going to be very similar for this watch vs. one in much better condition. So if you don't love the dial then it鈥檚 not worth it to throw money into it, and better to find a nicer condition one.
 
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Not a redial but pretty poor condition overall. These still seem to be going for at least 1k though.
 
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Aged but honest watch, with the cosmetic issues readily apparent to the OP. Weird that the back has been polished so much more than the front, but maybe they wanted to get rid of tool marks.