When something that is absolutely vital to the function of the very object it serves needs to be upgraded, the market usually responds favorably. Cars need certain mechanical bits that have degraded over time, like rubber hoses and lines to perform safely. In the case of watches, a carefully performed service is acceptable, and even adds value to the watch, but when a watch doesn’t include an original dial, it is frowned upon. This probably won’t change over time, as the emphasis on the character of a watch is placed on the dial, but exactly how we treat the dial might start to change as the supply and demand curve edge the idea of restoration as necessary.
When a car is restored the mechanics are always refreshed. Original metal, leather, and paint are favored, but you won’t see new brake pads bringing down the value of a car. In the watch world, it’s not going to bother anyone if a mainspring that’s lost its “spring” is replaced, just like no one will want mind if a newer balance spring is installed in a watch. But the hands and dial are another matter entirely. It’s the most vital part of the watch, and it could mean the difference between a sale price of $500,000 or $1,000,000 at auction.
from Best Watches For Men http://bit.ly/2Hf1CmB