Explorer II bezel - will the numerals fade or wear?

[Reddy_Kilowatt]

I'm curious if any long-time/regular 216570 wearers have experienced any fading and/or wearing of the numerals on the bezel.

Thanks!

[Onikage]

Going off older versions not so much fading but wearing down, chipping and flaking off are certainly a possibility.

[GMT Aviator]

Even if they do wear off, they are easily re-instated back to a factory finish as it’s only an enamel paint. You tube is your friend to see how it’s done to re-ink them back to factory.
Having said all that, mine is a year old and they have held up fine. Even the bezel which is often criticised for being too easily marked in unblemished.

[karmatp]

It can be replaced for $300 many years down the road if you choose when being serviced. Ceramic bezels are way more expensive and more fragile.

[Reddy_Kilowatt]

Originally Posted by karmatp

It can be replaced for $300 many years down the road if you choose when being serviced. Ceramic bezels are way more expensive and more fragile.

You struck at one of my considerations... durability of a GMT vs Exp II. Thanks!