Color matching handsets
It is not uncommon for vintage watches to have lume that has turned a different color than the dial. While the reasoning for this can vary, it most often happens as a result of the hands encountering moisture at some point during the watch's life. Some purists may dislike the idea of reluming an original handset even if the color has drastically changed from the dial, however, this practice has become more widely accepted among seasoned collectors, particularly, if the lume mirrors the color, texture and UV reactivity of the dial.
Tritium was used in dial and hand luminous compounds from 1963 through the 1980's. The 1960's period of tritium will glow a bright green when exposed to UV (ultraviolet) light and then fade quickly once the UV lightsource is removed. Tritium mixtures starting in the early 70's, however, reacts differently. When exposed to a UV light, this luminous pigment will often reflect the UV light with a light blue frequency. This frequency may vary slightly depending on the era and mixture used. Unlike the 1960's tritium mixtures, the 1970's mixture will not glow and fade quickly after removal of the UV source. Instead, there will be an immediate absence of light once the UV is removed. This was previously only possible using genuine tritium powder. However, this powder is not only illegal to purchase but also hazardous to health.
I am excited to announce that I have discovered compounds that enable me to color match both natural light and UV light frequencies thus mirroring 1960's quick fade and 1970's pigments. I am the first to offer this option to collectors wishing to color match their handsets. Nothing I use is radioactive. Accordingly, I now offer two tiers of color matching at two different price points.
*Please note my intent in exacting a handset match is to enable collectors to enjoy their watches to the fullest, not to enable scammers. I maintain detailed records of each watch's serial number that I have cosmetically altered in any way and am happy to share what was done to that watch if asked.
Color Match Tier 1
This tier is for the collector who is only concerned with a handset that matches the color of the watch dial under natural lighting conditions. When exposed to UV light the luminous will appear "dead" as it will not reflect during or glow after the UV light is removed.
-$100/hand as part of a complete overhaul.
-$150/hand as a partial service only
Color Match Tier 2
This tier is for the collector that wants the closest match humanly possible. Not only will I endeavor to color match the dial under natural light conditions but I will also best match the reflective frequencies of the dial under UV light exposure. This tier is more costly due to the fact that this process is more time intensive as well as the fact that this is a proprietary mixture that exists no where else in the world.
-$150/hand as part of a complete overhaul.
- $200/hand as a partial service only
