Folks

Seeking honest appraisal of this dial please

The watch in itself is somewhat interesting, as it has Irish hallmarks stamped on the medallion on the case back, which i have never seen before. (speaking to Desmond at the time of purchase, Desmond believed that there were restrictions in the early 60s wrt importation of 18K and also some protection measures in place to protect local casemakers (and hence some Swiss watch mfs used Dennison to make gold cases etc, inc Omega and Rolex), so these marks meets both Swiss and UK requirements in terms of stamps for jewellery and gold.

Case is marked 14381/2 SC 61 and the Ext of the Archive confirms production date of early 1962, and also confirms that the watch was sent to Ireland. Cal 551 is pristine, and cannot see a single watchmakers service mark on the inside case back

The hall marks are hard to see in the photo, but it has:

Hibernia (lady with harp symbol) for Ireland (Dublin) assay office
U date letter - correct for 1962 in Ireland
18 for 18K gold
750 for 750/1000, ie 18K gold

But I cant make up my mind if the dial has been refinished or touched up at some point, so thats what i,m seeking your expert help on please

Cheers, Paul

 

Not a Connie expert but the dial looks original to me. Some fading of the script in places. Looks like there is some bubbling occurring, particularly near the center of the dial. Because of those issues I'd try to negotiate the price down if the seller is willing and he/she is asking a premium price.

 

Thanks Gordon. the watch was purchased by me way back in 2011 for a steal £500. Unfortunately its stuck in a UK bank vault, whilst I’m on assingment in Texas, so i havent seen it ( and about 20 or so other watches that I own) for 4 years now

Cheers, paul

 

500 pounds is definitely a steal on this one! I'd certainly be proud to wear it. Cheers.