Help: 5513 - 1660xxx Serial - Photos

[JohnnyNoDate]

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some experienced thoughts on this watch below.


What I know:

- The dial itself looks legit.

- It's a very early 5513 reference with a low serial at 1660xxx.

- The case and overall condition checks out.

- Crown has been replaced with a Triplock at some point.

- Watch came with a 7836 bracelet with 380 end links.


My concerns come from the following:

- Dial glows when activated with a bright light source, although for a short time. I would have thought tritium would have died away on this early piece.

- The pearl does not glow at all. If this was an original set, wouldn't it glow along with the dial? On close inspection, I almost think its a piece of white plastic shoved in there. Is anyone able to compare with theirs?

- The condition of the hands almost seem too good with nearly no corrosion.


Anyone have an idea on what may be going on here with this watch? I prefer to have an original dial with dead tritium and avoid a service dial or re-lumed dial. But I'm unsure if these dials should be glowing, even faintly, this late into their lives.

All thoughts appreciated!