6542 on a NATO or Zulu

[mcook7373]

So I posted this over at WUS forum and I was hoping I could maybe get more of a response here, sorry for those of you who have already read it over there!

Hey guys, I’m sorry if I am beating a dead horse here, but Idid a search and didn’t really pull much up. I have a ref 6542 (GMT Master with no crown guards) Pepsi Bezel that is having a major service done to it. I am looking forward to getting it back soon and wearing it. It has the original bracelet which is in overall very good condition but I would like to preserve it as best I can when I can. As the subject implies I was wondering if these look good on a NATO and if it would be considered a faux pas if I did put one on it? I would love to see some pictures if anyone has some. Again sorry if this has been talked about a lot before but I appreciate any feedback!

[waspy1]

If you really want a nato I would suggest a shell cordovan in dark brown. Probably wouldn't do it on nylon personally.


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[joe100]

Wear it however you want

[Vincent65]

It would look great on a NATO, yes. No 'faux pas'.

[Im Lauf der Zeit]

Will look fine but that watch deserves more than a NATO strap, especially if it is Bakelite bezel.

[mcook7373]

Originally Posted by Im Lauf der Zeit

Will look fine but that watch deserves more than a NATO strap, especially if it is Bakelite bezel.

What would you recommend? I am open to just about anything. I have the bracelet that originally came with the watch and it is in pretty good condition structurally but it has the scratches and dings of a 57 year old watch that it is. The watch will have a bakelite bezel insert when it is all said and done.

[Im Lauf der Zeit]

Originally Posted by mcook7373

What would you recommend? I am open to just about anything. I have the bracelet that originally came with the watch and it is in pretty good condition structurally but it has the scratches and dings of a 57 year old watch that it is. The watch will have a bakelite bezel insert when it is all said and done.

Given that it's bakelite I'd either keep it on the original bracelet and wear it sparingly or put it on a spare bracelet or leather/exotic skin strap. The original bezel will limit how much you can really wear it anyway; might as well keep it all original and just get a later GMT for regular use.

[joe100]

Personally, I wouldn't wear it if it's an original Bakelite. Firstly, they're delicate and expensive, secondly, they're radioactive.

[lhanddds]

These watches look great on everything. Pick what you like and have fun.

[Robbyvm]

I would rather put the bakelite insert away for preservation (if it's orignina) an not worrie about a bracelet ....??

[NukeMan]

Pics will get us going!

[mcook7373]

i appreciate the feedback. Thanks guys, would it be worth putting the Bakelite bezel away and putting something else on it so it's more wearable. The piece has lots of sentimental value and I'd like to wear it.

[CrownMe]

can u show us some pics of the watch please?

Nato would look great. Cant go wrong with Nylon. the Zulu i think looks kind of strange. Way too bulky imho

[mcook7373]

The watch is currently at quality tyme but I have a before picture without the bezel and insert. The picture will show that the dial is a service dial from the 60's that was replaced by the RSC to get rid of the Radium. Im not real forum savy but I'll post the pic I have.
I hope this works.

[Im Lauf der Zeit]

Not a very clear pic, but lugs look rounded from overpolishing. If that's the case perhaps stow the Bakelite and wear this with a later bezel on a strap.

[watchcrank]

or stick a good AM bake on it and wear it. m

[Vincent65]

it needs some tlc - good move

[mcook7373]

Originally Posted by Vincent65

it needs some tlc - good move

It definitely did. It's been away for a while now. I'm getting anxious as it should be about done. When I found out what the original bezel was worth I was kinda scared I would break it so I'm going to have an aftermarket bezel and insert put in it so I can wear it a little. I will post more pics when it gets home. Hopefully before Christmas.

[Vincent65]

Originally Posted by mcook7373

It definitely did. It's been away for a while now. I'm getting anxious as it should be about done. When I found out what the original bezel was worth I was kinda scared I would break it so I'm going to have an aftermarket bezel and insert put in it so I can wear it a little. I will post more pics when it gets home. Hopefully before Christmas.

That sounds excellent - you should wear and enjoy it, I think (carefully!)
Good idea re the insert as well

[Im Lauf der Zeit]

Originally Posted by mcook7373

When I found out what the original bezel was worth I was kinda scared I would break it so I'm going to have an aftermarket bezel and insert put in it so I can wear it a little. I will post more pics when it gets home.

Good thinking... looking forward to your "after" pics.

[CrownMe]

looks great. cant wait to see it

[jyan212]

Looking forward to the results.

[lhanddds]

Sometimes these inserts are often damaged during insertion and installation and removal from the watch. Put it in a jewelry box and look at it from time to time.