How important is an original bezel insert - 70's Sub?

[aslist]

I'm thinking about a 70's 5513 - the watch looks great but papers say a replacement bezel insert was installed five years ago.

I've poked around but can't find an answer to the question of how important to the value of the watch is an original bezel insert?

By important I guess I'm thinking about how does it generally affect the desirability and value when an insert is replaced?

The bezel insert does appear to be aged or period as it's faded from black to a blue.

Thanks in advance!

[Quicksilver]

Its quite important for value and desirability. You say this insert has faded but it was installed 5 years ago. If its a recent service replacement that has been faded artificially then dump it. If its a service bezel insert from the 70's that was installed 5 years ago then it might look ok or might even be 100% correct.

My 1977 Sea Dweller 1665 had a later service insert and it dragged the watch down. At considerable expense I tracked down a 70’s fat font bezel insert (via a member here) and it transformed the watch. Having a period insert will increase the value of your watch and enhance its beauty. But if it’s a good buy in all other respects, and the price is appropriate for a model with a service insert, I would not necessarily let it put you off buying the watch. You can always track down a period correct insert later. But a word of warning - its difficult to track down these inserts and there are lots of questionable ones for sale, particularly on Chrono24. If you can get a watch with everything correct it will save hassle. But you'll probably have to pay more.

Might help if you post some pics then the resident experts can chime in. Mods should probably move this to the vintage forum as well. You'll get more answers then.


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[springer]

The original bezel inserts are readily available on the secondary market. Prices vary based on condition - from $1,000 to $1500 on up with pricing based on condition, fade etc.

[southtexas]

Originally Posted by springer

The original bezel inserts are readily available on the secondary market. Prices vary based on condition - from $1,000 to $1500 on up with pricing based on condition, fade etc.

^^^That^^^

It’s easy to find and install. Post up a pic of yours if you’d like more detailed feedback.


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[enginerd]

I bought a 1680 a while back that had just come back from service...Seller opted for a bezel replacement, but got to keep the original.

Which one would you rather have? ;)

Me too, and I swapped it back right away.