I am looking for expert opinions.
I recently purchased a year 2004 IW371411 Portugieser Panda dial. AFAIK, it has never been overhauled, so I took it to the IWC service center. According to IWC, the watch suffered a strong impact at some time in its life, which distorted/warped the dial. The dial MUST be replaced. IWC said that if I do NOT agree to replace the dial, they will NOT overhaul the watch. The watch runs +7 sec per day. IWC said that the angle of the balance wheel has been compromised by the impact, so the watch's timing can neither be improved nor guaranteed as long as the warped dial remains.
IWC sent me a pic of the replacement dial (below on the left). It is slightly different from the original on the right. The new one appears to have "applied" numbers rather than "painted" numbers, and of course, it is shiny white.
Overhaul=$677 (including polishing and new hands)
New dial=$510
Chrono pushers=$123
Total=$1,310
Plus, IWC suggested replacing the sapphire crystal ($228) + inner dial ($114) too. (I should just buy a new watch!!)
Is it worth $1,310 to sacrifice original parts and have a "made-over watch" that is in good condition?
Or, should I save my money and continue to wear the watch "as is" and take my chances?
Also, IWC wants to polish the case to make it look "new" again. Yes, do it? or No, decline?
I am thinking of declining because polishing removes metal, and the watch to me, doesn't look beat up.
I am at a loss about spending money to own in essence an older but redone, made-over watch.
On the other hand, it might be worth it to have an "old watch" in good condition.
I would appreciate some expert advice. Thanks.
Ron