Longines dial cleaning

[jao]

I got this Longines from my brother to try cleaning its dial.

I have looked up the serial number in several places and they all agree it was manufactured in 1947.

As you can see in the pictures, the case and the dial are very corroded and I wonder what can be done to make it look a bit better without making things worse.

After having opened it, I am also concerned about any toxic or radioactive paint on the dial. What would be the best way to deal with this?

Any advice about the questions above would be very welcome.

[AndyGSi]

My advice would be to either leave as is or take to a professional as any attempt to clean the dial is likely to make it worse.

[Klassiker]

It's important to understand that most of that discolouration isn't dirt, it is irreversible staining caused by chemical processes in the paint and lacquer. No substance in the world can remove it, and an incautious attempt will ruin it. I think it has aged in a dignified manner and would polish the hands and crystal but leave the dial alone. If your brother is not happy with it, then the only real alternatives are replacement or refurbishment.

A lot more can and should in my opinion be done with the case and movement.

[rehajm]

…it may difficult for some to appreciate but a dial that has aged as gracefully as this is very desirable by many collectors (as is the ‘suiza’ designation)…and as recommended above the movement, case and a light polish of the hands will freshen everything while still maintaining coherence…this heavy patina Rolex I have is a very modest watch but receives outsized attention at places where expensive watches prevail…

 

…this is a thread where dial restoration was discussed in detail. Hope it is constructive for your Longines…

[oldhippy]

Dials like that leave to the professional dial restories.  

[jao]

Understood. I shouldn't touch the dial . I'll not.

How about the safety of dealing with it? Should I be extra careful with something or just gloves and mask should be enough to safely deal with this watch?

[Klassiker]

I may be mistaken, but I don't see any lume on the dial or hands. Just for peace of mind keep your fingers away from your face, wash your hands afterwards and wipe down your work area. You'll be fine.