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1953/54 Omega 2402 Cal 344

J
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Just bought this watch. I know it's probably had a dial job done on it but I wanted a watch that looks good on the wrist so not worried about patina.
I am aware one of the minute markers, 11, is slightly out. Is it easy to get this repositioned? The movement is a bit dirty/slightly oxidised. I will be getting it serviced but is it safe to try and clean the bumper insitu with a cotton bud and some lighter fuel? Is it a decent watch?

IMG_6070.webp IMG_6085.webp IMG_6081.webp
 
Dan S
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If it is running, I wouldn't invest anything into it or worry about the cosmetic condition of the movement. Wear it for a few months and see if you remain happy with the appearance of the watch. If you love it, then invest the several hundred into servicing the movement. If you've decided that you'd like a better example at that point, you won't be so deep under water.

In the meantime, I'd suggest reading this thread:
https://omegaforums.net/threads/learn-how-to-fish.52603/ Cover Image
Thread 'Learn How To Fish' ·
I have had a few newer members asking me for advice on how to spot a good vintage watch and what they should be on guard for. I've decided to post a little primer on how to assess vintage watches...
ConElPueblo ·
 
Spruce
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It’s a nice, wearable watch. It’s an Omega.

There’s a sports saying, “Form is transient, class is permanent”, and your watch falls into the 'class' category so, as @Dan S posts, just wear it for what it is.
 
ErichKeane
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Thanks to the redial on this, the watch isn't worth much except for parts for the most part. That said, if it is something that you enjoy wearing and the condition doesn't bother you, I say enjoy the crap out of it!

Getting it serviced is going to be expensive, and probably about as much as you (should have) paid for this watch. There isn't much of a chance of fixing the dial, I'm guessing the repair included gluing on the index (seeing as it is so far out!), so any attempt to fix it would require using chemicals that would also damage the dial. You could perhaps keep an eye out for a dial to a different watch that is being parted out though.

As far as cleaning the movement: I would say ABSOLUTELY DO NOT do that. You risk doing damage that would make it not work, for the attempt to fix the appearance. All it would take is a little lighter fluid to get into a lubrication point, or break up the shellack on the pallet fork/etc, and the watch would barely be worth parts (as it wouldn't even be a runner).

I'd take Dan's suggestion here: Wear it for 6mo-a year, and see if you still love it. If so, invest the $300 for a decent local watch maker to clean it, service it, and see if there is anything else they can do. Until then, just enjoy it!
 
J
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Many thanks for all the very interesting replies. I should have said I'm not a collector just wanted an Omega watch the same vintage as me. I looked at lots of watches with patina but actually prefer a nice clean dial so the reface, which I was aware was a possibility, wasn't an issue. In fact if I'd bought one of the other watches (with patina) my family would have thought I was slightly mad🤣. I am into classic cars/motorbikes where originality is the most important factor and restorations add value! I was keen to make sure the watch I bought was all original so made sure the movement, case number, hands and crown were correct as far as I could. I also wanted a bumper movement as I love the way it works (I'm a retired engineer!). Surprised at the suggestion I could look at getting a replacement dial as to my mind that would mean the watch is no longer original. The watch is working fine and is currently losing about 30 seconds a day. My main bugbear, which was my fault for not looking at the sellers photos closely enough, is the slightly displaced marker. If I could get that sorted in my eyes the watch would be perfect.
I have a friend who is a recently retired horologist with over 40 yrs experience and he will give the watch a thorough service for me at mates rates. He will look at the marker but has warned me that it depends on how it has been glued. He has told me when serviced he will be able to get the timing way better than 30 seconds a day. He is very familiar with the 344 calibre movement.
Thanks very much for the advice about not touching the movement. I hadn't mentioned that to my friend and I'm sure it's something he will sort when he strips it down.
I am enjoying wearing the watch but will have to give it to my wife now I've checked it's all working as my birthday isn't until September!!!
 
Spruce
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Post more pics after the overhaul (and birthday 🎂)
 
J
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Pictures of the crown which I think is correct. The earlier ones had a mushroom crown I believe

IMG_6109.webp IMG_6108.webp
 
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