QuestionMy husband has an Omega rolled gold watch which his parents gave to him for his 21st birthday (many, many years ago). Consequently, it has considerable sentimental, rather than monetary, value. The watch bracelet needed replacement and we recently managed to find a second hand one (they no longer manufacture replacements for this model) but the end links don't quite fit. We have been advised by several jewellers to just buy a new watch, but he is obviously reluctant to do this. Is it possible to file or cut rolled gold to fit around the sides of a curved watch face?
AnswerDear Su,
Yes, it is possible to reshape the the end links to fit but your husband might not like the resulting appearance. Are places evident on the watch case or the old band where the rolled gold layer has worn through? If so, there is generally a dull almost brownish brassy look. When first cut to fit and polished, if the base metal is a brass alloy the shine and color will look quite close to the gold color. Given time, the alloy will tarnish and that is exaggerated by wear and exposure to perspiration and the environment in general. Sea air can speed up the tarnishing.
To cut the band first needs an examination by a jeweler to see if the lug fittings holding the band to the watch head will fit properly. If the fit will do, then the subsequent tarnishing must be considered. Once the cut is made, there is no turning back.
I would have to see this particular model of Omega to say more and be accurate. Is it possible a fine leather band may be fitted to the watch? There is always the option of style of band unlike the original, not ideal but providing an attractive way to wear the watch.
Su, I wish you well with this one. Personally, I would not want to modify the replacement band to fit, knowing the tarnish problems over time.
Best wishes with your choice. God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
