So I'm having an ongoing issue deciding if this is an actual Omega movement. Is this authentic?

 

The movement looks like an Omega movement, but I would have guessed early 20th century (or very late 19th), give or take. Why do you say 1840s?

Do you know the diameter of the movement?

[Edit: I see you got the 1840 from the case-back engraving. I think that must refer to the company, not the watch.]

 

Having looked a bit closer, here are my initial thoughts. I believe the movement and case go together and are correct, from the time period I mentioned above (late 19th to early 20th century). If you measure the size of the movement, we can probably tell you the exact caliber. I am not sure that the dial is original, since the font looks more modern to me. It will be interesting to hear opinions from other members.

 

Yes, you are right on the age . I found a serial number table. Earliest it could be, would be early 20th based on serial number of the case and yearly production numbers. I'm not having any luck finding anything on Ch. Fontana and Cie other then they were a very reputable jeweller. It is a small piece. I'll break out the micrometer and get a measurement

 

By the way, the dial is porcelain and is showing some spalling at very sharp viewing angles.

 

31.75mm is the movement width

 

Well the fact that it's porcelain certainly makes it more likely that the dial is original. I will need to go back and look more closely at the logo from that era.

 

Thank you!!! I'm in your debt! From what I can tell it may be an "85" calibre dame. Its definitely a ladies size

 

Early 1900s, likely after 1905, not original finish on dial, likely not the original dial

 

The font and numerals on the dial immediately reminded me of the fake "crystal ball" Omegas we see on eBay etc.

The rest of the watch is genuine though, I'll do some research.

 

Yes, it seems like a ladies PW. I'm not sure about the movement unfortunately. Hopefully, @JimInOz or other experts will have more information for you.

 

I don't know what an "85" calibre dame is. I think it's a 13''' L 7P dating from about the turn of the 19th century. The dial has definitely been changed or repainted as it does not match the style from that period and bears a similarity to later fake Omega. designs.

e.g.: The famous "Swit zerland" ball watches from 1882 (thirty years before the Omega brand existed).



The only way to define the caliber is to remove the dial and check the marks on the main plate and the design of the keyless works which are like a fingerprint for pocket watch movements.

 

Great research once again. As you know, the OP's measurement suggested a 14''' movement, but I couldn't identify anything that matched.

 

Thank you very much. I know nothing when it comes to omega PW's its greatly appreciated.