Just thought I would share this with you fellow members as I got the hands back yesterday and got this very interesting 12 size Illinois watch with the luminous dial and hands all back together. It doesn't use the original radium luminescence but it is cool to look at when I turn the lights out here in the computer room to go to bed. It's a 17 jewel Aristocrat by the way.

Steve

I like that, now I want one too!

Tom

Me Too.
Now I'm also looking for one. Great Watch.
Bill

Very cool!

Something to think about....back in the day when these were originally done, they used a radium luminous paint on these dials and hands which was self powering so when you pulled it from your pocket, a dark place to begin with, it glowed and for all night. I am told this would last for about 10 years or so before it eventually burnt out. Nowadays, it is an EPA friendly paint which will lose its glow after a short period. So unlike a wristwatch which will glow after the lights go out, this watch will not as it has been in the pocket while the lights were on. Not really functional or practical but still very neat and if left on the display stand as this one is, it goes to work when you turn out the lights to leave the room. I get a chuckle everytime I leave the room at night.

Steve

Steve, where can I send my "war conversion" watch with the "R" dial and "radium" hands to get that done?

Dave,

Here is there website which has their address and phone. You may want to call them and have them send you some order envelopes. They may be able to establish an account over the phone which you will be able to write onto your work order. They have done numerous dials (painted metal) and I think they do a nice job. It brings an old discarded ugly watch back to life and it is appreciated once again.

Steve

International Dial Co.

Thank you Steve. I have heard of these people, and I will get on it Monday.

I would be curious to know how much this dial refinishing costs....

The dial was $28.00 and the hands (hour and minute) were $7.50 and then $2.50 S/H.

Steve