Jaeger-LeCoultre

Hi everyone, about two months ago, I bought my first J-LC and despite the condition of the dial, I'm more than content with my purchase. From Zaf Basha from ClassicWatches, I learned that my watch was probably fabricated around 1949 or 1950, based on the case and movement numbers and his decades of knowlegde-gathering in the matter. I was wondering if some of you could help me to decide whether I should have my dial restored and if so, by whom. On ClassicWatches I read that the value of my watch drops significantly if my dial is no longer original. On the other hand I have to admit that I'm very curious to see my watch in its 'original' state with its most charming champagne-colored dial. Regarding a possible restoration, I already contacted two possibilities: atelier Meeus in Belgium - I'm a Belgian youngster - which delivers watch dial restorations for 70 euros and Jaeger-LeCoultre, which delivers the restoration, including a full service, for over 1400 euros. As I'm only 21 and still studying, I don't have that much money for a watch - even a J-LC - at my disposal, and in that respect, the choice would easily be made. However, I'm reluctant to leave my beauty in the hands of someone I don't fully trust... Here are some pictures:

Hi Thomas,

Dial restoration is a difficult and personal decision.  I suspect that you'll mostly get advice here to leave the dial alone, since while it has clear signs of aging, it is (IMO) very legible and evenly aged.

One thing to keep in mind: dial restoration is a one-way street: there is no going back.  I'd advise leaving the dial alone at least for a period of time to allow your opinion of the piece to mature.  If you love it, want to keep it, and find the aged dial doesn't suit you, then by all means get it restored.  But you might find the patina on the dial starts to appeal after a while (or after looking at the many beautiful vintage watches photographed here!) and you want to keep it as it is.  But finally, if your tastes change and you want to sell it, or if you find another example in better condition to replace this one in your collection, I think you'll find it easier to sell if unrestored.

good luck, Tom

 

Tom,

thank you for your time and advice. You know I already was rather reluctant to leave my watch in the hands of someone who delivers dial restorations at such a questionable price, but I must say that your answer fully convinced me. As you said, dial restoration is a one way street and over the past few weeks I've seen many deplorable examples of sloppy restorations. I love my watch too much to expose it at such a risk.

I don't know if it is fully visible from the picture, but I was also wondering if having removed the loose dust particles on the edges of my dial would be harmful?

Regards,

Thomas

That's a nice watch.  The hands look to be in good shape, and the applied numerals and indices are very attractive.

I would imagine that if you had the movement serviced, the watchmaker would remove any loose particles on the dial probably using compressed air to blow everything clean.

For what it's worth, my standard list of requests to a watchmaker servicing a vintage piece are:

- Please do not replace, restore, repaint, relume, or polish the dial, the hands, the case (beyond cleaning and removal of corrosion), or the crown.  Acrylic crystals I am generally happy to replace, although in one case, I have the original signed acrylic crystal, and have requested that it be kept.

Tom

Its lovely.

You got the right advice. dont touch the dial or case now but wait and see if you dont start to appreciate the patina as it is - IMO it looks nice- but its a matter of taste. When you get more money in the future you could trade it up or have it restored by JLC but dont spoil it now by a cheap restoration.

BTW you should have the movement cleaned and oiled and regulated - that i s not very expensive if you find a GOOD local watchmaker and will improve the lifespan and enjoyment of your watch.

best

christian

Welcome here, firstly.

As for your dial, take your time and live with your watch as it is, for the moment.

You could also hunt a NOS dial on the net, as they're spotting, from time to time.

I should email JLC ( wait till the 16th of August, as they're on vacation, right now ) to see if they have one in stock.

But I wouldn't go for a restoration, and if you can be patient, that's the best solution.

Let us know!

Best,

Nicolas

 

And congrats to your JLC!

 

I agree with all above to let it be for a while and see if you like it “as is” or not.

 

If not maybe hunt one in better condition and trade up, or like Nicolas suggested, find a better dial for this one.

 

From the look of your photos it seems like somebody already tried to clean the dial but stopped when they realized that they were ruining the minutes mark ring.

 

 

Best

 

Blomman

and great one to start adventure with vintage JLC - if that would be my watch I leave dial as it is or find nos one or someone who can clean it without repainting

the dial on your watch looks like somebody tried to do cleaning and after removing some of the minute indexes luckily stop -
you need an expert to do dial cleaning and its also very risky process - as well after it has to be preserved
if your dial has any signs of rust or scratches up to the metal it will just destroy the dial

but the watch is lovely and I ll try to wear it for a while and see what will be my feeling

my best regards

Rafal