I have a Constellation Pie Pan, caliber 505, which is all original. It has two issues: when you pull out the crown to set it, it often comes out further than it should, where you can see a thinner post inside the larger one. It takes some fiddling to get this back inside properly. Also, it exhibits a knocking/rattling sound when it is moved around. I have owned two Constellations from this era and neither makes the same sound. Does anyone have any ideas?

 

Issue number one is likely a worn set lever and or stem.

Issue number two is likely a worn/broken axle for the winding rotor.

Both can be fixed as part of a service.

 

Thanks for the responses. I sent the watch pictured to the left for servicing with Omega before and they quoted me $1025 for a service (which upon further research is a full overhaul). If the watch above also needs a service this will get quite expensive. Does anyone know (recommend, rather) any shops in the NYC or Connecticut area who will service these watches at a lower cost?

 

Greater than 1k - that's more than they charge for a full flightmaster refurb! Try Grand Central watch in Grand Central station. Should be much cheaper. I keep putting off going there, but they do have very good reviews.

 

I contacted Grand Central watch and they quoted me *at least* $600 for a full service for this watch. Is that what I should expect? Are there any other places that anyone can recommend for a less expensive service? I can certainly mail the watch, it doesn't have to be somewhere local. Thank you!

 

Find your local vintage watch / jewellers. I'm betting they all can do it. There are two local places here run by chinese jewellers, $150 to $250 for a service and the high end vintage jewellery store that will charge $250 to $500 depending on any replacement parts. Having a local guy you can talk to and look at his work (and watches) is your best bet. On top of that, you might be able to pick up a good deal on another watch at the same time!