Pearl lume on Sub Date

[Ozzie]

This is my first post here so hello to all.

I've just bought a used A serial Submariner Date to compliment my Explorer 2, must confess it makes the Explorer look a little tired!

The watch is in lovely condition, the AD I got the Explorer from give it the once over and it's all genuine.

There is one thing I've noticed though, the pearl doesn't glow in the dark.
Is it normal for it to lose it's glow after 8 years?

Many thanks

[chicagowatchman]

I believe so....I had one do the same in 6 years.

[mrkool]

well i have heard of people that had no lume left it in sun light for a day and it started back up

[Ozzie]

Thanks, that's interesting maybe a 'recharge' in the sun will do the trick.
Pity I live in the UK though!

Best

[Ozzie]

Has anyone one else experience of this?

Best

[Tools]

Ozzie,

Your Sub was made about the same time as the change-over from tritium to Luminova. If the dial says T<25, then you have a tritium dial.. "Swiss" and you have the newer Luminova dial.

There is no quick determination for the bezel insert....

Rolex would have put in whichever they had on hand, and so, it is possible that, if original, you have a Luminova dial that will glow if charged first, but an earlier tritium insert, which may not glow any more no matter what you do.

[Ozzie]

Thanks Tools

I can't see T<25 anywhere on the dial but I have 'Swiss' under 6 o clock,
the lume on the dial works great so I must have the newer Luminova dial.

Is there a good way to charge the pearl will just sticking it under a lamp for a few hours do the trick? Or is sun light the best option?

Many thanks

[Tools]

If the pearl on your insert is not charging exactly the same way as your dial, then no amount of exposure to the sun will do it.

You will need to have the insert replaced... cost is anywhere between 50 to 100 bucks..

[Ozzie]

Thanks, that's good to know.