Is this forced entry...

[Bandk7]

I'm looking at purchasing a 1999 Sub and noticed these small marks by the bezel. Does someone know if this is caused by incorrectly removing the bezel? Would it be necessary at some point of ownership to do that, or could it be a sign that it's been replaced/damages? Is it a big warning sign? Thank you for any help!

[cop414]

I’d say that someone popped off the bezel with a metal tool and didn’t tape the case lug prior to removal.

[1William]

Looks like damage to me. I would pass.

[herts9]

Definitely looks like pry marks. I would pass unless it is an unbelievable deal.

[Bandk7]

Thank you that feedback! It’s what I thought and I will pass as the price is not much lower than other models.

[Tools]

Less than 5 minute touch-up..

[Bandk7]

Originally Posted by Tools

Less than 5 minute touch-up..

Possible to touch up, but is it a good sign that the bezel been roughly removed in the first place? Is it normal service routine to remove bezel?

[Tools]

Originally Posted by Bandk7

Possible to touch up, but is it a good sign that the bezel been roughly removed in the first place? Is it normal service routine to remove bezel?

I don't think that it was roughly removed or even mis-handled. A burnish like that is simply using a knife to slide under the edge to pop it off, which is a common procedure. Even with tape around the blade a scuff happens sometimes.

The issue is that it was not touched up prior to replacing the bezel. Popping the bezel off, brushing the area, and pressing the bezel on = marks gone.

It's a 20 year old watch; you need to decide how much wear is acceptable for the price point, and what is minor and what is major.

[SearChart]

That would not be a deal breaker for me.

[Bandk7]

Originally Posted by Tools

I don't think that it was roughly removed or even mis-handled. A burnish like that is simply using a knife to slide under the edge to pop it off, which is a common procedure. Even with tape around the blade a scuff happens sometimes.

The issue is that it was not touched up prior to replacing the bezel. Popping the bezel off, brushing the area, and pressing the bezel on = marks gone.

It's a 20 year old watch; you need to decide how much wear is acceptable for the price point, and what is minor and what is major.

Thank you for that informative reply, very appreciated. That considered, it may be interesting as it's around $5800 incl postage and overall it looks decent I think.