What about this type of patina?

[Alex*]

Hi,

I'm rather new to the vintage game, what conclusion should one draw from the patina visible on this 16750 dial? Moisture damage? Relume? Just bad luck?

I'm thing of buying the watch, should I proceed with caution? How do you think the patina will develop?

Image1472414753.180777.jpg


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[DevinH]

I am very new to the vintage world. But I would probably pass on that one. That would bug the crap out of me


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[onthedial]

Patina is a wonderful thing, but speaking more broadly I think it's becoming a bit obsessional. Is it necessary to create a whole taxonomy of patina types, colors and hues? I think understanding why a tritium hour plot has transformed is extremely important, but I think increasingly buyers are treating patina as a choice, akin to ordering a flavor of ice cream. Anyway, this concept stems from a conversation I had with some others collectors recently as we discussed the current goings on in the vintage watch market. It will be interesting to hear other POVs.
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Instagram: @onthedial

[JohnnyNoDate]

Originally Posted by Alex*

Hi,

I'm rather new to the vintage game, what conclusion should one draw from the patina visible on this 16750 dial? Moisture damage? Relume? Just bad luck?

I'm thing of buying the watch, should I proceed with caution? How do you think the patina will develop?

Attachment 775126


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This kind of "patina" is likely from moisture damage. It's a subjective call, but vintage 16750's are not hard to come by. So unless you're getting a great deal, just pass and wait for the right one.

[onthedial]

@Alex*
What's going on with a few of the hour plots could be moisture related. Often when this occurs there is additional evidence (corrosion) on the handset. This set looks clean; do you know if it was replaced? Also, if you're concerned about moisture damage (and who wouldn't be?!), have you seen or received thorough photographic documentation of the interior movement?
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IG: @onthedial

[16610v]

I will pass on this one, if only a very very little bit of that deeper yellow of showing the aged marker that would be great, but too much on the watch of your photo.

[cajuntiger]

Patina develops over many many years...so don't buy a watch hoping it will "develop".

As others have posted out, this one is not very attractive and it won't improve over time.

[Vincent65]

Moisture I'd say - let's call it "Tritium Mold" - not pretty, but pretty common.

[Formulansx]

As I understand it, the lume oxidizes. The lume on my Omega from 1966 has oxidized black. It was my grandfathers watch and I know he was a big fan of using a sauna. Even had one at the house. No case corrosion because it's gold.