[Manga] Episode 5: Is that repair justice or sin? ~A story where opinions are divided over "replacement parts" and "originality"~

監修者 Commit Ginza
Episode 5 Thumbnail
Kenji
I had the part replaced at an authorized service center.
That's a "good move," right? It also increases the purchase price.
Shop owner
Basically, I'm an honor student.
However, in the world of watches, sometimes even good students get failing grades .
Kenji
Huh, why!?
I fixed it officially!?
Shop owner
The keyword is "originality."
To give an example...it's like the curry I make at my parents' house .
Shop owner
(If you change the ingredients to something "different," some people will say, "That doesn't taste like the food I have at home." It's the same with clocks.)

① Why does a "replacement" divide the value? : Repairs become "different things" for collectors

16:9 landscape. A counter at a buy-back shop. The shopkeeper displays two identical watches side by side; the left one has the original hands and dial (slightly aged), while the right one is shiny and brand new with replacement parts. In the background, a silhouette (without text) evokes the idea that "even though it's the same person, their yearbook and ID photo look completely different." Kenji's face says, "What? Same watch...?" Crisp lines, soft colors, and a refined comedy.
Kenji
But isn't there only good things about exchange?
It would be a problem if it broke...
Shop owner
Of course, it's the right choice as a watch to wear.
However, from a collector's perspective, parts that remain in their original condition can be valuable.
Shop owner
Take vintage jeans for example.
If you fix the tear perfectly, it will look like new,
The flavor disappears and people start saying, "That's not it."

② Rough conclusion: The interior is safe, but the exterior "face" is a hot topic of discussion

Landscape 16:9. The store owner explains the difference between the "inside (movement)" and "appearance (dial, hands, bezel)" by comparing them on a scale. On one side is a small gear icon, and on the other is a silhouette of a face icon (no text). Kenji looks confused as he takes notes.
Shop owner
In broad terms, it's like this.
The rating is unlikely to drop even if internal parts (consumables) are replaced.
Opinions are divided on the exterior parts (dial, hands, bezel).
Kenji
If your “face” changes, does that mean you'll be treated like a different person...?
Shop owner
That's right. In episode 4, the over-polishing makes him look like a different person.
If you exchange too much, you'll look like a different person.
There are quite a few people who look like different people in the watch world.

③ Dial: Most likely to end up in court. The outcome varies depending on the store.

The aspect ratio is 16:9. The shop owner is looking at the dial through a magnifying glass, while behind him is an abstract silhouette (without text) reminiscent of a court hammer. Kenji's heart is beating fast. The text on the clock is minimally drawn, with no logos or text.
Kenji
Does changing the dial make that much of an impact?
It makes it easier to see, isn't it good?
Shop owner
It often resonates.
Especially with vintage-style models, the dial is like a "face."
Shop owner
Even if the official "cleanly rewritten,"
It's the kind of thing that makes you think, "That's it," or "The original face was better." In particular, if the specifications, such as the luminous finish, change, it will have a big impact on the evaluation.
Kenji
Wow...

④ Hands and luminous material: If the colors don't match, it will look like a jumble

Landscape 16:9. The shop owner compares the colors of the clock hands and the luminous material. An abstract card resembling a "color sample (color chip)" floats softly in the background (no text). Kenji's expression says, "It's not the same white..."
Shop owner
Needle replacement is also a case-by-case matter.
If the luminous specifications are not aligned with the dial, it can create a “patchwork” look and lower the rating.
Kenji
Who would notice such a subtle difference?
Shop owner
Us and "collectors" from all over the world.
To put it in perspective, it's like a puzzle with just one different piece.
They are similar and addictive, but the "texture" is different.

⑤ Bezel, insert, crystal: Replacement itself is normal. However, there are models where "original parts" are strong.

Landscape 16:9. The shopkeeper points out the bezel part (a ring-shaped insert-like piece) and holds the watch itself in the other hand. The contrast between the shiny new parts and the slightly faded originals is apparent in the background. No text. Kenji is convinced, but also seems to be thinking, "It's profound..."
Kenji
Can't replace the bezel?
Isn't that better than being covered in scratches?
Shop owner
The exchange itself is quite common.
However, depending on the model, the premium often comes from the "atmosphere" of the inserts and crystals from that time.
Kenji
I got it. Mania is scary (I mean that as a compliment)

⑥ Bracelet/Buckle: It's more comfortable if you replace it. But it's stronger if you keep the original parts.

Landscape 16:9. The shop owner has lined up the "replaced bracelet (shiny)" and the "original bracelet (slightly used)," and both appear to be stored. In the background is the silhouette of an envelope (without text) that resembles an "insurance policy." Kenji looks like he's thinking, "I should have kept the original one too..."
Shop owner
Replacing the bracelet is practical.
However, in terms of appraisal, the value will be more stable if the original bracelet/buckle is still attached .
Kenji
Wait, when you replace it, you have to throw away the old one, right?
Shop owner
If you throw it away, you may regret it later.
Even if it has scratches or is stretched, we recommend that you store it carefully.

7. Service Description: Strong, but not a "universal excuse"

Horizontal 16:9. The store owner holds up a service bill (paper), with an abstract icon of a "shield" behind him. The shield is not perfect, but has a small crack in it, giving the impression of being "not omnipotent" (no text). Kenji's face is half hopeful and half anxious.
Kenji
So if I have a service statement, everything is OK?
Shop owner
That's a big plus .
It's great to be able to see when, where, and what was done.
However, if the "appearance" has changed, there will still be debate, so it is important to get the opinion of a specialist store.
Rough guide: Replacement parts "safe/need consultation" map
  • Safe : Internal consumables (gaskets/springs/complete parts), waterproofing, necessary repairs (stopping/improvement of malfunctions)
  • Negotiable : Hands (the color of the luminous material varies), bezel/insert (value varies depending on the model and year)
  • Discussions tend to be heated : Dial replacement, suspected redone (repainting), replacement that significantly changes the appearance of the exterior
  • Strong support : Service details/repair slip, storage of removed parts (returnable/provable)

*Even if it's the same "official replacement," the evaluation will vary depending on the model, year, and market popularity. If you're unsure, it's safest to consult us by providing a set of "before-replacement photos," "details," and "whether or not any parts were removed."

8. Common accidents: Three things that have the opposite effect when done with good intentions

Landscape 16:9. The shop owner gestures to count "three no-no's" with his fingers. Instead of "mine marks," three elegant warning icons (a silhouette of an exclamation mark in a circle) are displayed in the background. Kenji sweats and says, "I did it..." No text.
Shop owner
This is where accidents tend to happen, so I'll say it first.
There are three musketeers who lower the evaluation by doing things with "good intentions."
Kenji
The Three Musketeers are called...
Shop owner
1. Polishing just before appraisal 2. Throwing away replaced parts 3. Thinking that "customization with aftermarket parts" is genuine
Kenji
Points to be careful of...I'll keep that in mind...

Conclusion: Repairs are basically a plus. But the world line branches depending on "what you change."

Landscape 16:9. The road splits into two in the background, as the shop owner points out the "fork" (one is the "practical route" and the other is the "collector's route," with nuanced coloring and no text). Kenji nods deeply, saying, "I see..."
Kenji
In other words, repair is justice, but
There are some things that shouldn't be changed.
Shop owner
Should we choose practicality and security, or preserve the atmosphere of the time?
The optimal solution will vary depending on the purpose.
Kenji
I wonder if I can find the optimal solution myself...
What you can do today: 3 things to avoid losing money when replacing or repairing
  • Always keep a detailed service statement (what was done and when is your key point)
  • Leave removed parts if possible (they can be put back/explained)
  • If you're unsure, consult with us before replacing it (what is right varies depending on the model).

*Aftermarket parts and excessive customizations tend to be less appreciated. If you are planning to sell your car, it is best to consult with us before proceeding.

NEXT EPISODE
Episode 6: What is authenticity testing?
~A stomach-churning story about authenticity points and "suspicious individuals"~
  • The devastating power of "I bought it online..."
  • Introducing the magnifying glass! Is "If you look here, it'll be a sure hit" really a sure hit?
  • The "three-pronged attack" that wears down the owner's mental health
Next time, service, service

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