To Polish or Not to Polish my White SD 1665?

[blueline994]

I'm curious as to what is the general consensus about polishing the case is? I myself am a believer in being all original as possible bit sometimes I see a beautifully vintage piece that looks so fresh and so clean....makes me wonder as to what to do. I would hate to devaluate the watch because of a polish.

I just received my first vintage piece a white Sea Dweller 1665. I was lucky enough to buy it from an original owner. He never serviced the watch or never polished it. The crystal I know can get polished without any issues. It does show lots of small nicks and scratches when looked at closely. I believe these can be taken care of easily. The case shows a bit of wear but not too much in my very humble opinion. There may be one or two dents that really bother me.

The SD is at my watch maker getting a movement overhaul right now, 31 years and no lube is not a good thing. So I decided that she should go in right away for the movement…but the question is: To Polish or Not to Polish?

And what about the insert? There is a gash just next to the 50? Should I replace it?

Some pics below...More to come after she returns to me!











And I just couldn't resist this B&W one...