The allure of vintage watches lies in their details, the stories they tell, and their unique character. Among the elements that most influence the value of a vintage timepiece, the dial plays a crucial role. Collectors and experts alike know that a simple variation in the dial’s details can make the difference between a common piece and a highly valuable example. In this article, we will explore the significance of the dial in vintage watches and how it affects their market value.
The originality of the dial is paramount
The dial is the “face” of the watch, defining its aesthetics and character. Its condition and originality are fundamental and crucial in the overall evaluation of the watch.
A well-preserved dial, with a slight natural patina, can significantly increase the value of a watch, while a re-dialled or restored one, especially by inexperienced individuals, will irreparably devalue it. Collectors appreciate imperfections, but these must be consistent with the age of the watch and coherent with all its components.
Verifying the originality of a dial requires careful analysis. The presence of original inscriptions, the quality of the varnish, and the symmetry of the print are key indicators.
A perfect dial on a worn case, or vice versa, may suggest unprofessional interventions or even counterfeiting. Additionally, the presence of the manufacturer’s signature or markings on the metal base of the dial adds value and authenticity to the watch, allowing for a more accurate dating, which must always be consistent with the production period of the entire timepiece.
Even details such as the symmetry of the prints, the type of font used, and the position of the indexes can provide important clues about the authenticity of the dial. Experts in the field can identify the fonts used in specific time periods, and even measure the radioactivity of the lume on the hands and indices to determine the watch’s age.
A thorough analysis helps to avoid purchasing counterfeit or excessively restored pieces, ensuring a safe and valuable investment that is sure to appreciate over time.
The influence of the dial on the value of vintage watches
The dial in vintage watches significantly influences the value of a timepiece. An original and well-preserved dial can significantly increase the watch’s value compared to one that has been redialled or replaced, even if it’s an original but non-contemporaneous part.
Invasive and unprofessional restoration work can drastically reduce the value, making a thorough evaluation essential before buying or selling.
The Future of Vintage Dial Restoration
While the market has historically rewarded the originality of dials, a new trend is emerging: certified restoration.
Matt Spirit, with the newly established OCR (Officially Certified of Rebird), in collaboration with the historic company Coledan di Motta Visconti, is developing a revolutionary approach to dial restoration. The goal is not only to preserve the watch’s value but to actually increase it, as is already happening in the automotive and art sectors.
Restoration carried out with advanced techniques, but with a return to the past, like a time machine, and meticulous attention to detail, can transform the market, making timepieces with professional restoration certification even more sought after by collectors. Over time, vintage watches show not only signs of aging but also genuine deterioration, making them less attractive to new generations.
Today’s youth will be tomorrow’s collectors, and to grow the market, it will be necessary to make these watches attractive again through high-quality certified restorations.
Uniqueness and Customization of Dials
In the world of watchmaking, there are companies that are reinterpreting the concept of the dial in modern watches with an approach that recalls vintage aspects. Some collectors choose to personalize their modern timepieces, trying to combine tradition with elements of the past.
Matt Spirit, for example, is an independent studio specializing in the customization of luxury watches, working on original modern bases to create unique pieces inspired by the past stories of extremely demanding clients.
This is why Matt Spirit has studied vintage watches in every detail imaginable to give a philological imprint that links what the client wants to tell to the consistent year of the iconic timepiece chosen.
The proposed customizations are inspired by the past, preserving the original soul of the watch and making it unique thanks to exclusive details. The idea of modifying a dial without compromising its historical value is an increasingly popular choice among enthusiasts, who seek uniqueness without losing authenticity.
