Matte Sub dials which still glow?

[endwahl]

Hello again.

If I fail in finding a suitable watch from the new Rolex line, I may go back to my old search for a vintage style submariner with the matte dial.

One problem with vintage watches is luminosity. For instance, my tudor sub Has no more luminosity left; the indices are sort of a brown color. I have inquired about restoring or changing out the dial and hands, but people tell me that this will reduce the collector value of the watch, and people generally are very reluctant to do it. Additionally, the snowflake dial appears to be no longer available as a service option.

Is it possible to find 5513 or 1680 submariner's with glowing, Matt dials? Does Rolex still make service styles that are matte for these watches? I had the sea dweller with the enamel dial and it is not my cup of tea. The markers are too small and the dial is too shiny.

Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

[moviefreak]

With replacent lumi dial you would be just fine...

[endwahl]

Are these available from service centers? Do they have the matte finish? Do they not have the white gold markers, which I do not want? Thanks again.

[endwahl]

Are these available from the service center? Thanks again.

[moviefreak]

Like this one...

http://www.network54.com/Forum/20767...+Hands+Reduced

[77T]

Some watchmakers have refinished older dials with luminova - don't know if that's an option you want to consider.

[endwahl]

I would prefer to find a watch with new(er) lumi dial and hands. Bezel pip too. I really like the size and look of the 1680. I am looking around and there's one on eb@y but it looks like its going to go before I have the cash ready, plus it has a bracelet and ideally I would prefer head only. It seems like most of the lumi matte service dials are for 5512s.

I'm just very attached to the idea of a 1680 on a strap. Right size, right looks, date with magnifier, bidirectional silent bezel, drilled lugs to make strap changes easier. For me this would be the perfect watch - so long as it has lume. My eyes arent getting any better.

[endwahl]

Originally Posted by 77T

Some watchmakers have refinished older dials with luminova - don't know if that's an option you want to consider.

Yes,I actually looked into this for my Snowflake, but the more reputable ones are reluctant to do it because of resale value issues. Plus the service dials look and probably function better.