My dad passed away recently and this was his watch, bought new when he was in the Navy but he hadn’t worn it for the last several years.

I’m planning to get it serviced and have the crystal replaced but am struggling with the discolored dial - is the discoloration severe enough that I should have an expert remove the discolored lacquer and re-lacquer the dial or is the risk of damage too high? I’m definitely not interested in a re-paint.

 

It wears well. Change the crystal and the color will grow on you. Lacquer jobs are hit or miss. Nice piece. Really cool!

 

Nice watch! Do not remove the discolored laquer. Keep the dial as is, only change the crystal. You can always ask your watchmaker to clear the dial and remove the laquer - but only once.

 

There is no warranty the dial will look better after the lacquer exchange

 

The likelihood of destroying the dial by trying to fix it is far higher than the likelihood of it being improved!

 

Wouldn't it be more rewarding to view it exactly as your father did than to view it after some process?
New crystal and a service and then place it with honor among the family legacy.

If it isn't quite what you're looking for in a watch, get another, but I wouldn't destroy the amazing history that you have.

My disclaimer is that I tend to value the story, the history maybe more than I should.

 

Well said !!
Once a new crystal is fixed, you will enjoy the beauty of the aged dial!

 

Nice looking watch.

If you go down the advised road, perhaps you might post some before and after photos?

 

Thanks for the great advice. Those of you who provided specific counsel against messing with the varnish confirmed my worst fears (I’ve collected vintage Gruens for years and have seen some BAD restoration jobs). I’ll get it cleaned and adjusted, will replace the dial and get a more authentic band and will post a picture when the work is done. Thanks again!

 

I think you meant it but - Crystal - not dial!

 

You are correct - replace the CRYSTAL.

 

I'll bet that will look fantastic after getting a clean

If you'd like to get a better view of the state of the dial, you could polish the crystal with some Brasso or other polishing compound - it will remove the most superficial scratches.