: I'd say that the dial is a black that's starting to fade. I haven't
: heard anyone that hates the watch because of the chrono hand,
: but I'm sure that there are purists that would change it back if
: they owned the watch themselves.
: Over the years I've had it, I've stopped caring about it being in
: original condition and learned to appreciate that it's one of a
: kind. I really do think that the change in the hand was made in
: the 70's or 80's at the very latest, so it's definitely not
: something new.

Also, R71? Not sure I'm familiar with what that is. It's a Valjoux 72 movement, in case that's what you are wondering.