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Good evening, everyone!
Welcome to this column, where we discuss mechanical watches from an engineer's perspective. For the 46th installment, the topic will be:
"What is 'parts consistency' in vintage watches?"
Let's delve into this theme.
A phrase that almost always comes up in the world of vintage watches is "parts consistency (originality)."
We often receive questions from COMMIT GINZA customers like, "Is this hand original?" or "Has the bezel been replaced?" Honestly, I'm sure some beginners have felt overwhelmed and thought, "I can't follow this... it's too difficult..."
However, once you understand this "consistency," you'll suddenly grasp why the same model can vary so much in price, and looking at vintage watches will become much more enjoyable.
Therefore, this time, I'd like to explain in an easy-to-understand way what "parts consistency" means in vintage watches.
What is Consistency?
"Parts consistency" refers to "whether the manufacturing dates of each part match."
Specifically, parts such as the dial, hands, bezel, crown, case, and movement are checked to see "if they are the specifications used for that model at the time of sale."
It's important to note that "old = correct" is not always true. The primary criterion is "whether it matches the era." Even if a part was once replaced with a later-era part, if it has been replaced again with an era-appropriate part, it is considered to be in a "consistent" state.
Why is Consistency Important?
The reason for this is simple: vintage watches, while "industrial products," are now treated as "cultural assets."
For example, Rolex vintage sports models:
・The type and blend of luminous material in the dial and hands differ depending on the manufacturing year.
・The bezel font changes with the model year.
・The design of the bracelet varies by era.
In these ways, each part serves as "evidence of having lived through the same era."
That's why individual watches with consistent parts are valued as "watches (cultural assets) that have preserved history as it is."
Does Parts Replacement Always Mean No?
So, does a watch with replaced parts mean it's a "bad" watch? Of course not.
・Later service dial
・Hands with Luminova lume
・Hard bracelet with no stretch
Vintage watches with these parts may have a lower individual appraisal. However, from another perspective, they can be seen as "individual watches that have been thoroughly maintained by the manufacturer to withstand practical use."
Moreover, if parts have been replaced, this is reflected in the selling price, making them attractive options for customers who want to purchase a vintage watch at a charming price.
*Ref.1016 with replaced dial, hands, and bracelet
What's important is not whether the watch is a perfectly original piece, but whether it's well-balanced as a timepiece and whether it meets the individual customer's needs.
Furthermore, for advanced enthusiasts, it's also recommended to purchase an affordable watch and replace parts to your liking. Replacing parts that were swapped for later-era ones with consistent parts to bring the watch closer to its original form is one way to enjoy vintage watches.
Summary
What do you think?
Vintage watches can seem daunting at first, but once you get hooked, it's a deep world that's hard to escape. If you have even a slight interest, please feel free to ask the staff at Commit Ginza. We will gladly convey the wonderfulness and excitement of these watches.
It's not about "which is the best," but rather "how you want to enjoy a watch from which era" that determines its value. I hope you can choose one that aligns with your personal preferences.
I hope this article has provided valuable information for you and sparked some interest in luxury watches! Also, if you have any questions, please feel free to ask us directly, and we will be happy to answer them thoroughly. We look forward to your visit and inquiries.
Stay tuned for the next installment! See you then!
