16800 purchase questions

[Mattie22b]

Hi all!

I'm new to vintage Rolex and have some questions on evaluating different aspects of finding a 16800. My goal is to find a good daily driver and while finding a perfect example is an option, I also am fine with finding one that is close to perfect. However, given my level of experience, I need a little help evaluating potential imperfections. As an example, I've included pictures of two options I've considered.

One option has service hands, a bit of missing lume from the hour hands and a luminova pearl. The service hands are a minor shade off but pretty close. Would it make sense to put a put of relume or color in there by a pro to "fix" the hour hand? I can also source a tritium pearl.

The other option is all original. The date wheel seems to have a darker patina than the rest of the watch (usually I've seen the other way around) and the hands have some minor corrosion. Does the differences in patina cause any concern? I have heard the corrosion is normal to this model - any concern there?

Both were offered by reputable sources but I was unsure how to proceed so I didn't until I can get a little more education. Can any of you more experienced folks provide some thoughts and feedback?

Thanks!

[Beelzy]

Er, the "all original" one appears to have a Maxi minute hand.

[Mattie22b]

Thank you for the feedback - the aging of all the hands, however, appears very consistent

[sillo]

Don't know if you've seen this thread yet, but here's some good stuff to check out

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=377473

[Mattie22b]

Great post on different dial variations!

Any other feedback on whether to touch up minor lume issues, corrosion on hands, date wheel patina differences, etc?

Thanks for the feedback so far!

[Thathorologist]

After all one must be very lucky to get an “all Original” piece.