Hi Darren,
Thanks for a great story & rescuing a 70's classic.
It does sound like the dial is wrong to me.
Here's a 70's Catalogue showing the watch
And here is the example that I used to own
I don't have a catalogue featuring the Darth Vader ( Black version), but the various pics that I have seen all show 2 red subdials & 1 black one.
If you want to send me your photos, I'll host & post them for you.
I think the inner Bezel should be white, it probably migrates to cream over the years.
Changing the case is a no brainer. Go fo it.
Changing the dial is also a no brainer. ( assuming the old one is wrong... However, I have seen prototypes that have been sold - stranger things have happened )
So, what left? the hands, the inner bezel & the crystal. I think it would make sense to put a new inner bezel in there too. ( personal opinion coming up ) I find it a shame when the entire watch looks like new except one or two small details.
Watchco list an inner bezel for the Anakin for $55 AUS ( about 22 quid + postage & possibly import duties ) - Again E-mail me if you need more info.
Obviously, someone will now say/think "Ahh but the watch is no longer original". Sure, but it has been restored using original parts. So, IMHO you either go the "whole hog" & do everything or do nothing.
If I were you, I'd buy the parts then decide if/when I could afford the rebuild.
Checking the eBay prices, I see that some Anakins are fetching upto $1600 US & other are struggling way under $1000. I'm sure a 100% mint Anakin could get more than those prices ( especially in a dealers window ) It all depends on the presentation, condition & location.
The UK is a great location. It's in Europe, so saves import duty for the European buyers & is treatd as a "trusted" country by most Americans ( unlike Nigeria, Phillipines or Canada ... one of those was a joke guys ).
The condition will be amazing after the work is done.
& presentation. Well that's up to you ( & your camera )
I'm not sure I agree on the comparison to PloProfs & 321's.
PloProfs seem to be selling in the $2000 - $4500 range now
& 321's... well they START at about $1500,( but to be honest at that price they are not good )
Another point to think about, is that if you get the work done, the watch will have a full service & probably some guarantee on it. This will also increase the value ( should you want to sell it ) or at least give you some peace of mind ( if you keep it )
I'd love to see the Before & After pics. ( As you might guess, I'd do the work )
All the Best
Steve
