Rolex

It always amazes me to see how the same reference can get such a different patina. Joe's 16 660, which developped a " pumpkin " patina, really impressive: Mine, which could be compared as a Creme Brulée patina, let's say Vanilia, at least: That is the mag...  

.....I think the patina can sometimes dominate over dial, case, movement etc. You are right about my 16660.... I remember when I found it and sent you a scan. You just said..."You just have to buy that". Why? It is not as if the 16660 is THAT hard to find...  

Maybe because of its look, because it is a transitional model, because of its strange ref, because of its patina... Go figure why... But this is a fact that this is a popular model. A " jump on it " Watch, for sure! Best, Nicolas

...but equally superb patinas. It must be the appeal of the functional, and hard wearing saphire crystal, combined with the fact that you can actually still have tritium and its associated patina that must make it a 'must have'. Am I correct in thinking t... 

Which I personally find less appealing than the painted indexes. With the circled indexes, you go farther in / to the modern production, IMO. Best, Nicolas

..in thinking that these exist also. Both of yours seem to fill the indexes almost completely with the tritium. But I think I've seen some with a more prominent white painted surround. I agree, the white metal surrounds, even if tritium, are just too much... 

Serial numbers... Best, Nicolas

do they exist with full white painted circles around the tritium? Tony

...I can't remember where, but I thought I had seen one, which their was a very distinct white surround (painted) around the tritium. (or perhaps the indexes where white circles, and the tritium applied on top, but not fully covering the white index below... 

.....it took me a couple of years to find the one I wanted.... and I also wanted B&P!! So it took 2 years of trawling. But worth it

I'm only very recent drawn by rolex and have to say that those older models indeed have some impressive patina. But not all models have it. What makes the difference? There are more models with tritium, is there a difference in tritium? Or what makes the ... 

....humidity, exposure to sun and exposure to air will be amongst the most common. It is certainly true that a number of dials that spent their time in a tropical climate do appear to have aged differently and with varying impacts on the dial. it is also ... 

Tx Baron! I had the same idea, but it is weird how some old watches (also from the 60's) have almost no patina and others are all about the patina. That's what i was wondering about. If there are certain models that just age better then other when it come... 

....instead I would say to you to try on several and see which one you get drawn to. I am sure there will be several possibilities suggested, but I would say try a 5512 or 5513, 16550, 1016, and maybe 16660. Get examples of those on your wrist and see whi... 

or can this be different between watches of a same model?

what it is all about with vintage watches. Some age differently than others. Some have led a different life. What is cool about durable watches (like Rolex) is that most of the time they have spent their lives on wrists of people. Considering what they mi... 

Hello amanico Hope your weekend went well. What do you think of restored dials. Kind regards Anthony still a little wet. ...  

.....I have a friend who restores old Ducati motor cycles, and I often re-due the instrument panels for him (just white on black), and they are hard enough. I admire your skill in being able to do these types of dials!! very nice work. cheers Tony

Now the question is to know if Collectors of vintage watches would do it. The answer ( and the question of course ) should deserve a dedicated thread! Best, Nicolas

two watches with the very same indexes fading even if you consider just one version of matt dial for 16660. ...  

A triple barrel blast from Marcello Comex Emperor

unfortunately not mine ....

what would be the interest of getting three of the same ( expensive ) watches? Best, Nicolas

they all have a different but very relevant history behind ( some Hydra and other operations accomplished ) .. the watch is just a part of the stuff .... and above all Comex ( and milsubs) collectors are very fanatics ... LLOOLLL ...  

Here are two of my 666's… ...  

How many? Why? :) :) :) I know, I know, too many questions... But honestly, I can only admire your dedication for this Watch! Best, Nicolas

LOL…!!!

.. into that Rolex Sub / SeaDweller abyss here.. ;) As always: first, there will be a lot to learn.. again another pond. Thank you for this educative and enjoyable ( in an evelish manner, though) post. Enjoying the varieties of patina, and the whole diver... 

Here is a shot of my trusty 16600 This is a quick photo I had on file. Final year tritium dial, still glows. I have most of the accessories that came in the box when new.. ...  

Yes, this Sea Dweller has a lot going for her. - Splendid condition ! ( On my humble scale, I am right now hunting a triple 6 and/ or a nice 6610) - I have to say, tritium related patina is so enjoyingly versatile, thus these pieces get their own life - s... 

It will be a pleasure to welcome you in the dark side! ;) Have a good hunt, my friend. All the best, Nicolas