Buying a 1655, any advise is appreciated.

[kay13]

Hi everyone,
I am buying a 1972 Explorer 1655, staright hand. The price is OK and it seem to be all original. The dial and the patina are fantastic.
The problem I have is that the numbers between the lugs, although they can be seen, have faded a bit and are not clear and sharp.
Would this be a deal breaker, even if all other factors are attractive?
Is this much fading acceptable for a 72 1655?
Thank you for your advice.


https://imgur.com/RkifIaj

https://imgur.com/34Qa3sZ

https://imgur.com/2HAywiL

https://imgur.com/hDtJgXf

https://imgur.com/IC7fYsk

[Dan S]

That's quite common and would not bother me too much as long as the numbers can still be read. I'm more bothered by the polishing of the case, e.g. the crown guards and recessed lug holes. But the dial, hands, and bezel are quite attractive.

[vintagewatch]

The degradation of the serial number and/or reference number is very common. The design of bracelet end links on the pre SEL Oyster or Jubilee bracelets occurs from normal wear. As my fellow Coloradan stated if the numbers are legible it would not be a concern to me.

[mohamedalimam]

As long its readable, and matches the caseback shouldnt be bothered much about fading. If the price is attractive go ahead as these are getting harder and harder everyday to get hold of.

[SunTzu]

Originally Posted by Dan S

I'm more bothered by the polishing of the case, e.g. the crown guards and recessed lug holes.

Agreed. I cringed.

To the poster, if the price is right and you've always wanted one, I would go ahead. I don't see them a lot.

Good to get opinions first before buying than posting after you bought

[kay13]

Doas it look over polished. Is that acceptabe?
Anything you see that would be a deal breaker, for almost 24K?

https://imgur.com/5BcmYKa

https://imgur.com/fwg9DUM

https://imgur.com/YC7zzIp

[1665fan]

Well polished some would classify as over polished

[waspy1]

I’m really not sure about the crown guards - I can accept a bit of polishing but they look like they’ve lost their shape and become like early 60s pointed crown guards. Can you take other pics side on?


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[kay13]

Another crown side picture.
Its my last hold day, to deccide to buy or pass.
Would appreciate ANY comments.

https://imgur.com/Xl19q95

[Dan S]

As I mentioned previously, the case appears to be soft based on those photos, but the watch has good points as well. Ultimately, it's your money and your decision.

[waspy1]

Originally Posted by kay13

Another crown side picture.

Its my last hold day, to deccide to buy or pass.

Would appreciate ANY comments.



https://imgur.com/Xl19q95

Ok, I’m assuming the guards are just a bit thin rather than mis-shapen. It’s a pretty good piece, with the issues mentioned. I guess a perfect straight hand example would be more so it’s probably right for the price.


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