Restoring a Hamilton Masonic Watch Dial

July 11, 2008, 16:23

Clive Driscoll

I need to get this dial restored for a customer.

Can anyone recommend anyone who can restore masonic dials at a reasonable price.

My usual dial restorers in the UK either don't do masonic dials or can only provide a relatively poor alternative dial pattern which is not really in keeping with the original watch.

The symbols are printed on not overlayed.

Thanks

July 11, 2008, 21:19

Lindell V. Riddle

Clive,

All too often repainted dials are disappointing.

You will want to solicit examples before you decide on a source. One that comes to mind for this particular watch is Robert Miller of International Dial who started this topic last year...

Two pages: WATCH DIAL REFINISHING QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Check that topic over closely and ask Rob Miller specifically as to whether they might have the original dies to print your dial. I mention this because International Dial was used by Hamilton for refinishing dials in their factory service program and for that reason you may get lucky! Rob's eMail is rmiller15@earthlink.net and again if I were you I would want to see a print before proceeding. If you are like me, the quality of the workmanship would far more important than the price.

Let's also see what others may suggest!

Lindell

July 15, 2008, 16:04

Clive Driscoll

Lindell

This was good information.

I've read the thread - very informative. And have now been in touch with Rob Miller who has confirmed that he can restore the dial at a very reasonable price.

I shall be posting it off over the weekend.

Thanks once again.

Kind Regards

Clive

September 03, 2008, 15:18

Clive Driscoll

Lindell

Just to say that I have now had the dial restored and International Watch dial have done a splendid job.

I will be sending any other dials I have for refinishing their way in future.

Thank you for the recomendation.

September 03, 2008, 15:37

Lindell V. Riddle

Glad to hear the good news Clive!

Please post an image so we might see the finished product.

Lindell

September 05, 2008, 13:41

Clive Driscoll

OK Lindell here it is.

October 06, 2008, 01:18

Rick Vess

Dial looks great. Are you happy?

October 06, 2008, 14:55

Lindell V. Riddle

I agree with Rick, that is a great restoration.

The problem with dial companies is the inconsistency of quality. The person doing the work of course has a lot to do with that, but first and foremost they must have a proper die for the particular dial in question available to them. The reason I suggested International Dial for this particular dial is they were the most likely to have the original die for this dial, and it turned out they did.

For many years International did the dial reconditioning for the Hamilton factory on their factory serviced watches. Knowing that fact caused me to recommend International for Clive's dial and we are pleased that everything went well. I would also mention there were several eMails behind the scenes and the folks at International were very friendly and helpful to us.

It's always nice to have a happy ending!

Lindell