Swapping Datejust dials - 4 digit vs 5 digit ref

[7Kenhinho]

Are the dials from the 4 digit reference DJ's interchangeable with the dials of the 5 digit references?

Just want to know the flexibility of changing dials on these models.

[sensui]

They are not.

[Vlad]

dials for cal 15xx will not fit cal 3xxx

[7Kenhinho]

Originally Posted by Vlad

dials for cal 15xx will not fit cal 3xxx

Ok, thanks.

Now, just to make sure, if I have a ref 16xxx datejust then I can get any 16xxx datejust dials to replace the original, correct?

In addition, how can I tell a 16xxx reference dial from a four digit one?

[coelacanthus]

I believe Turn-O-Graph model dials are ever so slightly smaller than non TOG Datejust dials due to having rotating bezel. Probably you want to double check before you buy because that generation of TOG doesn't have the designation on the dial.

[The moose]

The 4 digit dials will have the pie pan dial feature, with a different edge the 5 digit dials that are totally flat...the only dial I have seen that’s totally flat and fits four digits is the Buckley dial...but I might be wrong...

[Vlad]

Curvature of the case dictates the shape of the dial. I believe all 16xx dials are pie-pan - including buckley style dials. 15xx (i.e. date models, not datejust) are flat.

By the way, what ever happened to John?

[The moose]

Originally Posted by Vlad

Curvature of the case dictates the shape of the dial. I believe all 16xx dials are pie-pan - including buckley style dials. 15xx (i.e. date models, not datejust) are flat.

By the way, what ever happened to John?

Seems you are correct! At first glance the 1601 Buckley dial seemed flat:



But from the side it sure looks like they have somewhat of a pie pan feature:

[7Kenhinho]

Ok thank you all very much for the help. I'll stick with looking for a five digit dial. Besides, five digit dials will be easier than to find the older dials alongside better condition.

[motoikkyu]

The dial options in the flat (quick-set, 5-digit) dials are many more than the 16XX pie pans with one exception: you can't get a Wide-Boy dial for the quick-set. As for the 1625(TOG, Thunderbird), don't even try: they are scarce and the standard 16XX dials will not fit. That is, they will fit, but the watch can't be re-assembled because the movement ends up sticking out in the back. If that sounds like unfortunate experience talking...you'd be correct.