I bought this "majesty" and wondering about its value and whether I should keep it. I paid $700 for this watch. I noticed that the upper right corner of case near crystal is chipped. You can see the base metal around the edges. You have to look pretty close to notice it. Actually the third picture down you can notice the case chip on the upper right corner. Also the tips of lugs are worn. I can also see that this is a refinish. What is opinion of this job(I know that Gruen & Curvex aren't same lenth and U is wrong)? Any way of noticing if the crown or hands are original? I am debating keeping it. I always wanted this watch and wondering what are the opportunities of finding another one, as well as not spending a lot of money. Is it worth keeping for the money? Also is it worth fixing it up,as far as better refinish, fixing of case, and replacing crown and hands if not original?

Everyone,

I've already replied to Mark in a private message, but wanted to post an amended version of my reply publicly, for the edification of anyone interested. Please note that these are just my opinions, and I would welcome any input from other seasoned collectors.

Mark,

I think you've done pretty well with your Majesty. They are rare, and that is why they are listed as one of the most desirable Gruens. I also believe that you are worrying way too much over small details. If you want a perfect Majesty, be prepared to part with considerably more money, if and when you find one.

Your watch has a refinished dial, as do many others. The hands are probably original (or at least correct), the crown is not. Many of these parts were intended to be replaced when worn, so it's not that big a deal. If the deficiencies in the case (which appear to me to be minor) bother you, they can be repaired, but it will not be inexpensive.

I do believe you will easily be able to recover your investment. I would suggest enjoying it as is. If a better one comes along, at a price you can live with, buy it and then sell the lesser one. I do that all the time.

Remember, this is supposed to be fun.

Regards,

Cary

Thanks. Collecting Gruens is a lot of fun, maybe too much. This was my first biggest investment for a watch. I was kind of nervous spending that kind of money for the watch. I just needed a little reassurance. I am thrilled with the watch!!! I now feel more comfortable spending the money for a great watch. Appreciate the post.

I'm very pleased to see that we're starting to get an increased awareness and subsequent disucussions on the wristwatch forum

Here's one of the very nice Gruen Curvexes from my collection. It contains a calibre 330 movement.

Hi Dave,

Nice Curvex. That model is the "Curvex Casino", introduced in 1950. The Casino name was used for an earlier 440 model as well, but the later long models are very distinctive. The white gold-filled case and the original gray dial make a nice combination. I believe if you check, you'll find that this one has the 370 caliber movement.

Regards,

Cary

Hi Mark,

In another post, you inquired about the RF#. It's easier to elaborate more fully here since we can refer to the photos.

If you view your photo above of the inside case back cover, you will see the numbers 330 292.

Now go to page 772 of the 2005 Shugart guide, 3rd from the bottom, inside column. These numbers coincide with the Shugart info: RF# = 292 and movement (grade)= 330. You'll see your dial & case appear to match the photo in the book. If you check your watch, you should see a 330 grade mov't. A 330 belongs in this watch case according to the numbers printed on your watch case. If it's not a 330, then the movement is wrong for the case. Is this making sense? Now, whether the hands match the photo or not is not necessarily a big deal to me - hands can be switched or replaced. I've seen plenty of Gruen's with the moon style hands and plenty without.

Next, Dave states his Gruen watch has a 330 movement. Cary's comment states he believes it's a 370. The grade # on the inside of Dave's watch case will satisfy which movement should be in Dave's case. Perhaps Dave could post a photo of the inside case back and movement to settle our curiosity.

Many people use these two sets of case numbers as a partial guide in helping to determine original Gruen cases & movements as opposed to after market, generic or replacement cases and movements. Odd combinations of dials, hands, movements and cases are also known as "frankenwatches" and "marriages". Knowing this can help determine and establish a better sense of the watch's value.

You are asking good questions and I hope this helps.

Barbara

Very nicely explained, thanks!