Tudor Oyster & Tudor Oyster Air Tiger

[watchbob]

I was wondering if these dials should be refinished - not planning to sell - will be grand kids gifts - Black dial Air King can barely be read with a loupe -
Who is doing a really good job refinishing these dials ? Costs ?

Bob

 

[EscapeWheel]

Your pictures aren't showing. I found this thread from not long ago:

Watch dial | NAWCC Forums

I'm sure more people will chime in.

 

[watchbob]

I thought the pictures were there the 1st time ?? Guess not

 

[svenedin]

As I understand it these days it’s all about originality so refinishing a dial devalues vintage watches. 20 years ago people wanted them like new which has increased the rarity of untouched watches.

 

[watchbob]

I wasn't sure if they had enough value that it made any difference - hope grandkids keep them awhile anyway
Not sure they'd appreciate them as they are ?

 

[Grant Perry]

Well, I am sure there are many opinions, but if they were mine, I would have them refinished. I don't mind a little bit of wear on a vintage watch, but these are quite worn. I think the Air King would look great with a properly refinished dial. Whether they would appreciate them and wear them (refinished or not) is another discussion.
Good luck!
Grant

 

[svenedin]

Well, I am sure there are many opinions, but if they were mine, I would have them refinished. I don't mind a little bit of wear on a vintage watch, but these are quite worn. I think the Air King would look great with a properly refinished dial. Whether they would appreciate them and wear them (refinished or not) is another discussion.
Good luck!
Grant

I’ll admit I would have them refinished too. They are nice watches. I think if a dial is so bad it’s hard to use a watch it should be refinished unless it’s a museum piece. Of course it’s difficult to tell what is just dirt. Might be surprised how well those will clean up. Cleaning dials if fraught with risks and best left to the experts. I hope your grandchildren appreciate the watches. If they don’t there are many that do including me! Regarding value, do a google search. The second hand dealers in the U.K. have a number of these watches listed.

 

[thesnark17]

I would redo the Air King - it's unusable. At this point, the original dial is not adding anything good to the watch.

On the Oyster, I would leave it. I like the look - it's relatively evenly toned, with an interesting gradient effect. The fact that it is still readable factors in heavily for me; and I would appreciate this watch more as it is, than with a redial.

Some folks have attempted to clean dials like your Oyster dial, with mixed success. There are also a few watchmakers who would try it. If you are intending to refinish it anyway, it might be worth a shot!