I found a swatch in my junk drawer a while back and have id-ed it as a ladies Breakdance from 1985. I need to make some extra money and wanted to know if replacing the original band (some slight markings and wear on the very end of the band) would increase the value, or if originals are more desirable. I have heard that the plastic housing can get brittle so I am nervous about causing damage when replacing the band. There is some scratching on the face and I have heard polywatch is a good product to use to repair them. Again I am trying to increase the value, will polishing the crystal help? (Other wise the watch is in good working order with no other damage.)

Hi Miss Reilly! I really urge you not to try to improve the condition of your Breakdance. Breakdances are very rare and sought after pieces of art from the Eigthies. The watch was designed after a poster made by Keith Haring for the Breakdance Championships. This Swatch really is something that should be kept for the future. What you heard about the brittleness of the case is correct. At http://www.swatchrepair.com we always joke that if you only look at the case chips start flying off. So best not try to remove the straps. Also removing the battery cover can cause damage. Using Polywatch is less harmfull but if the dust that comes out falls into the rim around the crystal it will be very hard to remove. All these things can be done yourself on a less fragile watch. For a Breakdance I would leave this up to the buyer or a professional and leave it as is.

Thanks! I am so glad I asked first!