Polishing a vintage watch, ever worth it?

[ralpie]

Hey I need some advice, I recently acquired a 1016 from 1969-70. The 1570 movement runs well, but I decided to service it anyway because it seems it was never serviced.

I am replacing the Crystal with the original part and using a very respected watchmaker with a Rolex parts account.

The watch looks scratched up, but nothing too deep. It was probably only lightly polished.

I never polish cases because I flip almost everything I buy so that I can try a lot of watches. Most buyers like to see sharp lugs and the original bevel.

The watchmaker suggested a polish so that the watch looks new when it comes back to me. I am torn, while I may enjoy a fresh look, resale maintenance is very important to me.

So how bad (or benign) is polishing a vintage watch?

Thanks!

[springer]

Ralphie, sounds like you answered your own question in your post.

[77T]

The answer depends upon your prospective buyer.
Some eBay cruiser might not care as long as it looks good.
A WIS will spank you every time.

[ralpie]

Originally Posted by springer

Ralphie, sounds like you answered your own question in your post.

True, guess I needed to write it out to make it clear to myself. Thanks!