1803 patterned champagne dial - refinished?

[sp5702]

Hi all - my first potential foray into a vintage day date. Got this in from a friend to help them sell it and have been doing my best to find information on this patterned champagne dial, but struggling.

My assumption is that it’s refinished given how poorly the ROLEX text is done, but have found at least one other exact same dial on eBay. Not to say that one wasn’t refinished as well.

But would greatly appreciate input on whether it’s refinished. The dial itself is great, I personally haven’t seen one of these patterned champagne dials. Similar to linen but it’s a cross hatch pattern like the Florentine finish on the case.

[0nly5iv3Digits]

The plexi is scratched to hell which doesn’t help in answering your question. I’m inclined (highly) to suggest that it is all original and has not been refinished. These dials are rare. Beautiful 70s style!

[alwayshere]

Originally Posted by 0nly5iv3Digits

The plexi is scratched to hell which doesn’t help in answering your question. I’m inclined (highly) to suggest that it is all original and has not been refinished. These dials are rare. Beautiful 70s style!

Not a particularly helpful response with ‘hope and prayer’ approach. Let’s try to apply some science to assessing originality.

As Paul said already, no Swiss footer but also the Rolex text and double lines don’t look right either. Suspect redial.

[0nly5iv3Digits]

Originally Posted by 0nly5iv3Digits

The plexi is scratched to hell which doesn’t help in answering your question. I’m inclined (highly) to suggest that it is all original and has not been refinished. These dials are rare. Beautiful 70s style!

Originally Posted by alwayshere

Not a particularly helpful response with ‘hope and prayer’ approach. Let’s try to apply some science to assessing originality.

As Paul said already, no Swiss footer but also the Rolex text and double lines don’t look right either. Suspect redial.

Seems you’re right, didn’t have a close enough look at it. Coronet is also too close to “Rolex.”

Disregard OP - eyes getting tired in age.

This dial configuration is correct, however, as it seems you’ve pointed out.

[TuRo]

Is there a footer text can't see one at all...

[sp5702]

Thanks all - hadn’t checked the thread since posting.

No Swiss footer as mentioned, and yes…ROLEX is basically touching the coronet. Crystal’s been beat to death. Whole watch needs some TLC when it makes its way to a new home. Definitely wearable with a new crystal & dial, tightened bracelet and service.

[77T]

My suggestion

If the price is suitably lower than an original condition DD, and you like it, then get the dial washed. Remove all the ink, lume and tarnish. Leave the coronet.

Get a new acrylic crystal, service the movement, send the case and bracelet for refurb (maybe Rolliworks?) and it’d be a very unique dress watch


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