Pitting

[ravenhome777]

I was wondering what pitting on a watch case is caused by.

Is pitting caused by air bubbles within the steel during the manufacturing process?

I was also wondering if it can be repaired. If so, is it expensive?

I kind of like the look of pitting on a watch. However, my concern is that pitting on the back of the watch may impact water resistance.

[Dan S]

My understanding is that it is caused by moisture from ambient water (including sea water) and sweat that sits on the steel for long periods of time. You often find pitting in areas where water can be trapped, e.g. between end-links and case, under the case-back flange.

People sometimes claim that pitting can be repaired by laser welding, but when I have asked about such repairs, experts have declined to attempt such repairs, saying that the porosity can result in poor results. Yes, if it is severe enough, porosity on the sealing surfaces can certainly impact water resistance. YMMV.

[Old Expat Beast]

Like the look? Whatever causes it, it's one thing that vintage dealers have never found a cool name for, and should be avoided when buying a vintage watch.

[yowlie]

Salt water destroys even the best steel. Some stainless knives won't last one trip diving unless rinsed.

[zapokee]

My OysterQuartz doesn't pass a pressure test due to pitting. Solution: I don't wear it the one time I'm in a pool every couple of years. I've had it 10 years and there's never been a moisture problem.

Pitting isn't a big issue for me, unless you're involved in some serious water activities - as long as the watch is priced accordingly.

[ravenhome777]

I'm a stickler for having things done right, so I'll probably see this through. I suppose the best options for watchmakers to repair pitting is Phillip Ridley or Rolliworks. I have never worked with either company, but I'm interested in giving one of them a try.

It'll need more than lazer welding. I'll need a service and a couple other things.

[SOG DIVER]

This is one case in point where regular service and even regular inspection
and pressure testing may serve to obviate severe corrosion. My 50-yr old red 1680 Submariner saw regular salt and fresh water dives, but was regularly pressure tested with new O-rings/gaskets. It never developed any pitting, but was cleaned where appropriate.

Keep in mind that the stainless steel Rolex now uses is a better grade than that found on their watches from the 1950s-through 1970s. Tougher as to corrosion resistance.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by ravenhome777

I'm a stickler for having things done right, so I'll probably see this through. I suppose the best options for watchmakers to repair pitting is Phillip Ridley or Rolliworks. I have never worked with either company, but I'm interested in giving one of them a try.

It'll need more than lazer welding. I'll need a service and a couple other things.

Almost anything can be repaired if you are willing, and you have the right watchmaker.

Severe pitting can be removed with a lathe, and a new disc/ring pressed into place to provide all of the required surfaces

Some think that laser welding will cure everything, but it doesn't.

If you are serious you can't go wrong seeking a consult with the Ridleys.

[Verdi]

I have read multiple times on forums about this. Based on what it has been said by far more intelligent people than I it is a mixture of factors.

Basically, the metal is affected by oils, fats, salts and acids. Some of these are produced by the skin and some are just around us. (seawater, chemicals from pools, suncreams etc)

Most of the pitting I see is around the area where the gasket sits or underneath the lugs. Rarely on top of the case.
I blame the acidic sweat and seawater for most of it. Also, I think that an old gasket once it gets moist with sweat it creates the perfect environment for pitting.

As a vintage enthusiast, I always slap my head when people say: "I didn't service my watch in 25 years, works perfect, why bother?!!"
Because, the watch gasket does a wonderful job as long as it is changed periodically. After a while, it works against you.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by SOG DIVER

This is one case in point where regular service and even regular inspection
and pressure testing may serve to obviate severe corrosion. My 50-yr old red 1680 Submariner saw regular salt and fresh water dives, but was regularly pressure tested with new O-rings/gaskets. It never developed any pitting, but was cleaned where appropriate.

Keep in mind that the stainless steel Rolex now uses is a better grade than that found on their watches from the 1950s-through 1970s. Tougher as to corrosion resistance.

Exactly and most pitting stuff you see on the net is when Rolex watches were used as proper tool watches. And many of these watches were never serviced regular, with todays mainly pampered Rolex watches, pitting should not be a problem no matter the the name of the metal used. All any Rolex needs is regular washing in soap and water and normal RSC service at correct intervals depending on use.

[ravenhome777]

Aesthetically, I find the pitting kind of appealing. It has some pitting on the top of the lugs which I think looks kind of cool. But, if I have the pitting around the back seal repaired, I might as well have it all done at once, I suppose.