I have a question for our NOS experts, as follows.

If you were to be taking an NOS watch from the early 1970s (say, for example, a Cal 12 Autavia, Silverstone or Montreal), and wanting it to be operational as a working watch, what would you do in order to "wake it up" properly after these 35 years asleep? Assume that it is true NOS; stored where it is dark and dry; never wound fully or worn; never opened or serviced. [Assume that it is not a Monaco (with unique seal issues); assume that it is Cal 12, not Cal 11 (with its known issues).]

Would you need to fully overhaul / oil / replace the seals / etc / ? Anything in particular relating to the style of crystal and seals?

Are there any particular recommendations or hazards in waking one of these, after all these years?

And what might happen if it were awoken and worn on a daily basis, without any servicing? What would you expect to happen? [Assume that owner knew not to take it in the shower or swimming pool.]

Jeff

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