I am excited to finally begin the process of restoring my collection. Many of my watches need a lot of work, and I am in need of advice regarding what to do with them. Moreover, I think this information could be helpful to other members and guests who are contemplating purchasing, selling, or restoring a similar model. I know that there will be differing opinions, but all opinions are welcome. So, if you’re willing, please share your thoughts.
This guy almost looks like it has a vertical linen dial? Or some sort of vertical butler stripped dial?
Great looking watch. It doesn't look like the numbers were lumed? The hands obviously were... so I guess you need to decide if the hands... or the numbers are correct. And do both matching?
Does this guy need a replate on he back corners as well?
I don't think it is a linen dial, though it kinda looks like that in the photos. It's one of those poisonous ones, with lots of streaks.
Your questions are good. Wish I had the answers.
Don't you think the numbers would have been lumed at some point?
See now I've seen them both ways. Lumed... and just the outline without lume. Obviously there's something to be said for both... but I don't know if it nessecerily HAD to have it. I'm wondering if it wasn't an option for the buyer back then. Something to "upsell".
Lisa - this is cool case but based on the condition of the back I would not restore it. I know I'm going to get slaughtered on that but there it is, I said it and I'm probably going to take it back someday.
BTW I think the radium was removed at some point and that's the look you have now.
Check this out
http://www.mybulova.com/watches/1925-president-1993
then follow to the 'previously ID'd forum' within that watch to see the 'before' and the comments.
You know if the bezel of the case is in REALLY good condition......I might consider restoring this watch.
The bezel is in great shape. Jay showed me a picture of this same model after a complete restoration, and I fell in love. It has the potential to be stunning.
In reply to The bezel is in great shape. by NOVA
OK, changed my mind - told you I would
YOU WIN!! - do Baker Dials though......
Hey, Jay, don't you want to post a pic of the gorgeous restoration job you did on this model? Great way to show off your skills.
If it has Lumed hands, it needs lumed numbers....and vice versa...
If you need custom crystals, let me know...I have lotsa glass on hand to fit.
Lisa are you dgoing to do the work on the bezel and back?? if so, Plast X from autozone is a very good and extremely fine polish ( made for final polish on plastic lenses) thats also cheap and easy to clean up. Very hard to over polish thru the gold with this stuff...Also works as designed for plastic crystals. Can be used by hand or with a dremel or such, or with a buffing wheel (a little messy and not as quick as rouge, but less chance of polish thru on the gold) but dont be stingy with it on crystals as it can still dry up and burn the plastic if your speeds are too high on the dremel.
Check out International watch man for real good and inexpensive US made watch bands, all have heavy buckles, not cheap stamped out junk you would expect at his prices. www.internationalwatchman.com/home.html I know I hype Rons stuff, but the quality really is there and the prices are very good and its all US made. Flat rate shipping as well ( $6 I believe for all you want).
Dont be afraid to jump in and go for it, you will be amazed and proud of your results. The value seems to go up immesurably when yo do it yourself.
Good luck and have fun !!!