Faded insert for 1680

[zapokee]

I've been offered a nice naturally faded grey fat-font MK2 insert for my 1680 from a trusted dealer. No pearl, but otherwise decent condition.

The price is $1,400. What do you guys think? Too much?

[Chunky]

Originally Posted by zapokee

I've been offered a nice naturally faded grey fat-font MK2 insert for my 1680 from a trusted dealer. No pearl, but otherwise decent condition.

The price is $1,400. What do you guys think? Too much?

I am looking for one too, but at that price?? Ouch! It's kind of crazy...

[swish77]

Can you post a photograph? But even without a photo, I'd say that's a crazy price, especially without a pearl. I know nice, naturally faded inserts are becoming harder to find, but for that kind of money, I'd rather enjoy fading my own insert over time.

[lhanddds]

For that price, I'd like to have the pearl also. I've seen many entire bezel assemblies for that price. If you really like it go for it.

[watchcrank]

Inserts have gone crazy but it takes years for many to fade naturally. The fat fonts are more difficult to find for early models and the long five's are rising in price. Supply and demand form Market prices. m

[azguy]

No way, not without a perfectly patine'd pearl

[Jp28]

For me no pearl is not an issue as one can be found that will match your watch. Yes more money but if you are looking at spending this much on an insert I am guessing you can afford the pearl and at least you can get a matching one.
For this kind of price I would expect better than 'decent' condition though. It should be superb and even then the price is very high.
If you are prepared to be patient and keep reviewing the forums, Instagram, place wtb's everywhere then I am sure you will find a good one within 6mnths that will be $4-500 ish cheaper.
So it is really a time vs money call which only you know what is most important to you. For me I dont mind paying a little more for quality but not 40% more for 'decent', and the chase/research is half the fun :)
Good luck with your choice!

[Wing Zero]

$1400 is moon money.

mk2 long 5 inserts are too early for 1680 anyways.
mk2's are found on early to mid 60's 5512, 5513

You want mk3 for 1680's.

Do you have any pictures?

I paid $700 for my ghost mk3 on my 1680:

[PoderEsBueno]

That is a nice combo ^

[HERITAGE82]

Originally Posted by Wing Zero

Love that strap!.... Matches the insert perfectly.

[Sam Crow]

Very nice!

Originally Posted by Wing Zero

$1400 is moon money.

mk2 long 5 inserts are too early for 1680 anyways.
mk2's are found on early to mid 60's 5512, 5513

You want mk3 for 1680's.

Do you have any pictures?

I paid $700 for my ghost mk3 on my 1680:

[zapokee]

Thanks guys. I guess I'll keep looking.

JC, that thing is stunning. That's exactly what I'm looking for.

I welcome PMs if anyone knows of one for sale. I'll also post in the WTB section.

[seattleal]

Is there an illustrated key to fat font bezels?

Could someone point to the classification system referenced in this thread?

Thanks

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by seattleal

Is there an illustrated key to fat font bezels?
Could someone point to the classification system referenced in this thread?
Thanks

No expert myself, but these are from the web. Thanks to whomever made them.

[seattleal]

So this is a MK2 Long 5?

[Wing Zero]

Originally Posted by zapokee

No expert myself, but these are from the web. Thanks to whomever made them.

That's an old picture
Those are all Mk3 inserts except for the mk2 long 5
The widely accepted theory is that the different iterations of the insert was due to the Printing pad wearing down and producing fatter and fatter text.

Here is a fresh Pad printing of the MK3


Here is a medium pad wear, causing a bit thicker printing:


Here is a worn out pad, causing the most thick printing known as a kissing 4


Mk2 long 5 inserts have a different font on the 4 followed by a long 5


Mk1 is a skinny 4

[zapokee]

Thanks JC. That's a great reference. I consider myself well and truly schooled!

[Erpin]

Now I know what to look for in a vintage Submariner bezel insert. Thanks JC.