Would You Consider Having This Dial Refinished?

Good morning, all. I know that dial refinishing is generally considered heresy on a collector’s forum, and I’ve never before considered it with any vintage watch that I’ve acquired, but …

Here’s a 1950 reference 2612 Sub Seconds Omega that I recently picked up on eBay. Not an expensive purchase and I bought it expecting that it would have some warts. As it turned out, the case and movement are in great condition, it has the original signed crown, and it’s a bit unique because it has a Portuguese customs stamp on the top left lug.

A few flaws: the hands are a bit tarnished (easily remedied), it has a 2613 case back (which is the center seconds model instead of the 2612 sub seconds model and I don’t really care as it’s still a stainless steel case back and fits perfectly), and - 😲 - the dial shows some flaking/erosion of the enamel on the right edge (see the close up photo).

Now, in wearing the watch, most folks wouldn’t even notice the damaged dial, but I see it. Out of curiosity, I contacted the folks at International Dial and they assure me that not only can they refinish the dial with the correct print and fonts, but they can also reapply the original dial numerals and markers to the refinished dial.

I don’t plan on selling this watch and it’s certainly not a high value item in my collection. But I really do like the look of it and can’t help but wonder how much better it might look fully restored. So, my questions. First, does anybody have firsthand experience with International Dial or an opinion about the quality of their work? Second, given the circumstances as I’ve described them, would you consider refinishing the dial or opt for leaving it in its present state? Thanks in advance for your opinions!

I wouldn’t have any dial refinished unless it was a heirloom that for some reason had been utterly trashed.

Everything else, I’d just sell as is, even if it’s at a loss. Otherwise I’m just sinking good money after bad and I still won’t be happy with the end product.

I appreciate your individual answers as well as the collective "NO!" to whether the dial should be refinished. As I noted in my post, it's hardly noticeable to the naked eye when wearing the watch and it's just on the right edge. The remainder of the dial is actually pretty good for a 70 year old watch. I'm just picky - most of my vintage watches have dials with very minor flaws, if any. While this one isn't of collectible quality, it's fine for a daily wearer.

Actually, I AM. 😀

I wasn't going to do anything with the dial markers, but I will probably ask my watchmaker to remove the tarnish on the hands. I don't think that will cause any issues. Have had it done on other vintage watches without a problem.

Just put in on for a quick trip to the grocery store. I really do like the lugs and the dial markers on this one.

If I want a watch with a new dial then I buy a new watch, period. So I'd too never bother redialing . The dial is the soul of the vintage watch and once replaced the soul has gone.