16520 should I look for replacing the dial?

[adamszloser]

I'm fighting with my thoughts, maybe You could help.

If You would see on a Rolex 16520 from 1995 (W-series) dial and hands with Luminova (Mk7), would You consider to change that to period correct parts in tritum (Mk5, Mk6) or You would leave it as is?

I guess the dial and hands were often replaced to Luminova set during service in the 00s.

[Tools]

With luminous hands you have a functional watch.

Going through the expense of replacing the hands to "period correct" does not return your watch to original, that ship has sailed. You still would have replaced hands, just non-functional again.

There are some folks who enjoy returning their watch to period-correct. it is a legitimate part of the watch hobby. When it goes wrong is when those folks try to pass their rebuilt watch off as an original piece with original parts.

[Dan S]

Is this a watch that you already own, or are you thinking about buying this watch and then trying to restore it to originality? If the latter, I would not buy the watch. Just wait for one that is fully original if that matters to you.

[adamszloser]

I have the watch, and for me, current state is perfect, the service dial and hands in luminova doesn't bother me at all.

I was just thinking in general, if in a few years from now, if I would wish to sell it, would it be more saleable and appreciated in period-corect parts?

For me watch that has replaced parts during its usage, might also confirm that the watch was actlually used and taken care of by the owner with proper service, which is a postive thing.

What is general practice in such case, in order to do not lose much value in the future?

I'm not watch salesman, I'm just a regular watch enthusiast that buys and sells some of his watches once a while. I'm also not experienced in rolex market, and I guess 1995 is not considered very vintage, it is still rather modern watch where luminova fits well, right? I'm more of the "Omega from 60-70s" person, so if I would have luminova dial in speedmaser 105.003 I would definitelly look for period-correct part. In this case, of a watch from 1995, I have doubts if its really needed, thats all.

Thanks for Your thoughts.
Cheers.

[Dan S]

There is no "general practice" to my knowledge. Some people prefer original parts and some prefer replacements parts that are more functional. Collectors generally prefer original parts and collectible watches with original parts have more value. However, there would be an expense to find period-correct dial and hands, and there's no guarantee that the value would be increased by more than that expense. I think you're probably better off keeping the watch how you like it.

[Vodka-Martini]

I would not change it.
However, it would be cool for a collector to have period correct tritium parts, so I would casually look for them and buy them eventually, but not install them.

[swaini3]

period correct watches would fetch more $$ than the same watch with service parts if condition is not an issue. If you have to change other parts such as bezel, bracelet etc then maybe its just too much spent.

[adamszloser]

thanks for all the comments!

fyi, all parts, beside mentioed service dial and hands, are period correct.

[PVR]

Change the dial and hands back to Tritium and sell off the luminova parts to help offset the cost. its original parts return the watch to its factory condition, the watch will be period correct and if and when you do sell it, you wont get hit on resale loss due to service parts.

No Brainer. Plus you can now pick what color dial you want. Black or White

[0nly5iv3Digits]

I'd want to keep a 16520 as "original" as possible... they're precious... far more than modern Daytona's.

[jaisonline]

As a 16520 owner, I suggest you source the period correct parts (hands plus dial) and just keep them safety stored.

There is zero need to have them installed at this time. Your watches value would be close enough to market with the correct parts on the side. Then, at the next service interval, you can decide to replace with the “original” parts if desired

[swish77]

I'd leave it alone. Just not worth the time, energy and money. Finding the correct tritium dial and hands with matching patina would be very difficult and expensive. Plus, the originality of the watch is already lost. Period-correct parts still ain't original parts.

If it really bugs you, I'd sell the watch and look for an all-original 16520. Otherwise, wear your Daytona and enjoy it. There's nothing wrong with service parts, from a functionality standpoint.