: it's only an estimate, but I would say that the
: market generally devalues a watch with a
: refinished dial by 40 to 50%, maybe even

Wow. That's a lot. Surely for a poorly refinished dial or one clearly altered from the original look. But really for one done accurately and well?

I find this especially interesting given that some upscale watch dealers back in the 1950s/60s routinely did dial repaints as part of their superlative repair and maintenance services to freshen the watch's look.

: if you are considering buying one, the real
: question is how you will feel about the
: watch, in terms of owning it and wearing it.

Authenticity is important. But then having something in a good state of cosmetic appearance is important too. Don't want someone to think you are wearing junk on your wrist.

I think of dial repainting like repainting a vintage car. You wouldn't expect the original paint to be in great shape after 20, 30 or more years. So a properly done repaint restores the value lost from the typical, expected deterioration.

While a repaint may be worth less than a mint original, I still believe one done well would be worth more than a untouched but deteriorated original.