What is an original vintage Cartier dial? The difference from a redial and the values Ante cherishes

When searching for vintage Cartier, you might come across terms like:

"Original dial"

"Genuine replacement dial"

"Redial (dial restoration)"

However, surprisingly few people fully understand the differences between them.

The dial is one of the most crucial points when considering the value of a vintage Cartier.

This time, we will explain why Ante values original dials.

What is an Original Dial?

There are two main concepts regarding vintage Cartier dials:

One is the original dial, as it was shipped at the time.

The other is a genuine replacement dial, exchanged at an authorized Cartier service center.

Genuine replacement dials are also authentic Cartier parts and are not inferior in quality.

Depending on the manufacturing period, the paint and manufacturing methods may have been improved, making them less prone to discoloration or cracks.

From a practical standpoint, they can be an excellent choice.

On the other hand, the printing style, color, and font may differ from the original at the time.

Therefore, if you value the original appearance and collectibility, an original dial has an undeniable charm that a replacement dial cannot replicate.

It's not a matter of one being "better" or "worse."

Do you prioritize practicality?

Or do you prioritize originality?

At Ante, we believe it's a difference in values.

We have also detailed what we truly consider important when choosing a vintage Cartier in "More important than price."

You Can't Judge by "PARIS Dial" Alone

Vintage Cartier watches have various markings such as:

• PARIS
• SWISS
• SWISS MADE

It is sometimes said that "a PARIS dial means it's original," but you cannot judge by that alone.

There were models manufactured with SWISS markings even back then.

Furthermore, some watches have had their dials replaced with SWISS or SWISS MADE at an authorized service center, and in rare cases, genuine replacement dials with PARIS markings have been used.

Cartier, with over 100 years of history, has many specification changes and exceptions.

That's why it's crucial to consider not just one piece of information, but comprehensively check the:

Era

Model

Printing style

Finish

and other factors.

Aging is the History of That Specific Watch

Vintage Cartier watches from before the 1990s may show discoloration or small cracks on the dial.

Some people consider this a flaw.

However, we don't necessarily think so.

If the case and movement are in good condition, the natural aging seen on the dial is a testament to the time the watch has lived.

Individual differences due to the paint and manufacturing methods of the time are also part of the charm unique to vintage pieces.

That's why at Ante, we generally do not modify the dial.

We believe that the history and character unique to each watch are also an important part of its value.

What is a Redial (Dial Restoration)?

A redial is a repair method where the dial is stripped, repainted, and then the logo and indices are reprocessed.

While it can result in a beautiful, like-new finish, it ceases to be an original dial from that point on.

Recently, very elaborate redialed dials have become more common, making it difficult to judge from photographs alone.

However, by disassembling and examining the details, it is often possible to distinguish the difference.

Ante does not handle products with redialed dials.

What we value is not to make it look new, but to preserve the original condition of the watch for the future.

Why Ante Values Original Dials

The goal with vintage watches is not to restore them to a brand-new state.

It's important to respect the history and individuality of each watch and pass it on to the future.

The dial is the "face" of the watch.

The original expression, which can only be made once, holds a value that cannot be replicated by new watches.

We elaborate on what we consider to be "truly good condition" in "What is the "truly good condition" of a vintage watch?"

Therefore, at Ante, we generally do not modify the dial or hands.

We want to cherish and preserve the journey each watch has taken.

Ante's Philosophy

The value of a vintage watch is not in its perfect beauty.

The character developed over many years is also the unique history of that watch.

Instead of recreating, we prioritize respecting its original state and passing its value on to the future.