Hi I am looking at buying an antique Portuguse watch C 98 cira 1957 but it has some rust on it and I was wondering how hard it is to clean rust off a watch without damaging the case. Is this something I could do or would it need to be sent to a watch repairer/IWC.
see pics.
Hi Shane,
I do not know if you know, but that is most likely a "ubber" rare Ref 325 with an original dial in excellent condition. The crown is not original, but that is a small detail in the larger issue of uncovering a Ref 325. Rust on the case is actually a good sign of authenticity, and I would not touch it. In view of the value of the watch I would only entrust any stabilization to an expert.
Please check your email. If you send me the case number, I will be able to check authenticity. You may also send the numbers to our esteemed Moderator. He is even in a better position do that than I.
To avoid frauds, please do not post case or movement number in the forum.
Oxidation is an irreversible process but it can be stopped. Wash, polish/glaze, in worse situations, epoxy resin or laser technique to add material. None of the above are non-pro operations, especially if the watch to repair is so important.
My little knowledge (I'm no watchmaker) my humble opinion.
Seems to be a vote of buy and send for spa treatment. Only question how much case work to be done, but you never know the part may be replaceable from stock which would get my vote. Nice find.
I agree with Clepsydra= send the case number to MF and see if you don't have a real prize. And like he said, keep the case number to yourself; don't post it here.
Keep us posted- I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you!
Nelson
More fingers crossed from my side too. Great find - and I hope the price is right.
Shane, as the others say - please do take this offline with MF sharing the case and movement serial number details only via email. If as we believe this is A Ref.325 it must be saved and a professional restauration conducted by Schaffhausen.
Good find, good luck in securing it and keep us posted.
Best regards
Mark
congrats to find this nice watch, hope you can enjoy this 325 if it is real,
I do not know much of this, but I am glad for you, holding my thumbs!
Shane,
Excellent, Congrats and welcome to join the 325 cult watch. Good!
Actually, either Shane didn't buy it or there are two floating around. The one I received yesterday is owned by a UK collector.
Thanks Michael's clarification, I hope I can see it in flesh. 42mm seems rare, is it?
The strap and dial details and lug detail are almost identical?
Hi Michael....There's not two floating around, the photos posted above are the auction house's pre-sale photos of the watch which you received yesterday ;-)
Furthermore, I don't think the "rust" is anything to worry about, I'm quite sure that most of this is just surface dirt that that an ultrasonic clean will take care of...
Hello isthomson
Congrats. Nice catch.