Dangers of using corroded hands?

[mastersub]

I had my vintage Submariner looked at by two different watchmakers, one was RSC, one independent. Each told me that replacing the hands was required and not optional. They stated that the corrosion could fall of the hands and damage the movement. Is this true?

[linesiders]

Originally Posted by mastersub

I had my vintage Submariner looked at by two different watchmakers, one was RSC, one independent. Each told me that replacing the hands was required and not optional. They stated that the corrosion could fall of the hands and damage the movement. Is this true?

Possible, how corroded are the hands? You can also lose lume compound into the movement. There are parts of a watch movement that could wear prematurely due to foreign material damage. Source some NOS hands then replace them - but photos really help. Make sure the watchmakers are not looking to keep parts for themselves ; )

[Dan S]

Sounds fairly unlikely to me, but photos would definitely help.

[Tools]

There are a few shops that can stabilize the lume on your hands so that they will not disintegrate and fall apart.

Only you can decide if you want to salvage your damaged hands.

[Dr Watches]

I can see old trit lume falling off and being a problem, but actual corrosion (e.g., rust) on the hands? Most old watches making the sales rounds lately have somewhat rusty hands. If it was a real problem, people would be talking about it.

[janice&fred]

Originally Posted by Dr Watches

I can see old trit lume falling off and being a problem, but actual corrosion (e.g., rust) on the hands? Most old watches making the sales rounds lately have somewhat rusty hands. If it was a real problem, people would be talking about it.

yep i agree. corroded hands are usually not a concern and somewhat expected nowadays. as Tools mentioned there are many shops that can stabilize the old lume to prevent further problems. since the OP is on the west coast he has a number of quality vintage watch techs that could inspect his piece and give advice.