So, how rare are mosaic dials exactly?

[Rollied]

I’ve heard mosaic/shantung dials were limited to the Asian markets for a set number of years, hence they’re pretty rare. However, they seem to be pretty readily available. Y’all have any insights, thoughts, comments regarding these?

[miamiclay]

I doubt anyone but Rolex knows exactly, but I’d call them rare. I’ve only seen them on Date or Datejusts, another member said made for Asia 1968-78, so they might be more common on the west coast. Powerfunk did one of his invaluable public service posts on them HERE.

[Dan S]

I don't know how one can really answer a question like this, but I think they are very attractive dials, especially the blue ones, and obviously less common than most of the solid color dials. In the end, I'm not sure it matters exactly how rare they are - if you like the dial, that's the most important thing. If you are actually asking about value instead of rarity, that's a whole different question.

[Rollied]

Thank you both for your informative answers. Ok, so in terms of value, what should we expect? I see most are floating out there as watch heads on leather straps. Does the folded link bracelet bring value up a few hundred bucks?

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by Rollied

Thank you both for your informative answers. Ok, so in terms of value, what should we expect? I see most are floating out there as watch heads on leather straps. Does the folded link bracelet bring value up a few hundred bucks?

If you are asking about a specific watch, then you should definitely provide comprehensive photos, since it's very hard to discuss a hypothetical watch, and most members won't even bother to participate. In general, yes a bracelet adds value, but if it's in bad condition, or the end-links are wrong/aftermarket, the value decreases quite a bit. There are many reasons why photos will be helpful.

[Tools]

Value?

There are hundreds of dials available for the DJ, and you could order almost any one of them from the catalog to put in your watch.

Generally, a DJ value, or even it's collectability, isn't impacted much by the dial it has with very few exceptions.

[gallahadesquire]

I bought one from a dealer in Philadelphia in 1974. I have since purchased three more, all blue ... but they are a little hard to track down.

The term that should be used is shantung which made mr searches much easier.

[kwcsports]

I've got one, I love it and will never sell it. The dial is what sold me, lovely blue dial which looks different in different light and at different angles. I have seen quite a few of them over the years so I don't think they're that rare. Just my opinion. Here's a pic

[vintagewatch]

Originally Posted by Tools

Value?

There are hundreds of dials available for the DJ, and you could order almost any one of them from the catalog to put in your watch.

Generally, a DJ value, or even it's collectability, isn't impacted much by the dial it has with very few exceptions.

As stated by Tools, there were many dials available. I worked for an Official Rolex Jeweler (as called back in the day) in the 1980's. I would have to say the dials aren't rare but a few can add much value overall. Below is a chart that shows available dials (extra cost) for 1992.

[watchlovr]

Great info

[miamiclay]

Originally Posted by vintagewatch

As stated by Tools, there were many dials available. I worked for an Official Rolex Jeweler (as called back in the day) in the 1980's. I would have to say the dials aren't rare but a few can add much value overall. Below is a chart that shows available dials (extra cost) for 1992.

Thanks for posting this - I assume from some of the options that this list is for available Day-Date dials? You may have settled a whole ‘nother discussion off forum, about whether Rolex ever offered an opal dial - Apparently they did.

[Rollied]

Wow, thanks for the awesome table there, @vintagewatch!

[crowncollection]

Originally Posted by miamiclay

Thanks for posting this - I assume from some of the options that this list is for available Day-Date dials? You may have settled a whole ‘nother discussion off forum, about whether Rolex ever offered an opal dial - Apparently they did.

Yes they did


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[ravenhome777]

That's amazing.

[kwcsports]

Originally Posted by crowncollection

Yes they did


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Beautiful ^^^^

[ravenhome777]

Originally Posted by kwcsports

Beautiful ^^^^

Is this exceptionally rare? I want one. :-)

[aram]

Originally Posted by miamiclay

Thanks for posting this - I assume from some of the options that this list is for available Day-Date dials? You may have settled a whole ‘nother discussion off forum, about whether Rolex ever offered an opal dial - Apparently they did.

Wow, this is great information.