Hi all.

I have just purchased a 9kt Gold 1970 Geneve. I am very chuffed and it will arrive on Monday.
I haven't had a wind up watch for a long time. Its the 601 calibre and it was serviced last year.
So my question is, what is the rule of thumb for winding the watch? How many turns etc.
Hope you all can help.
As a side issue I am curious as to what one of the markings is on the inside of the case. I've done all my homework but can't identify one ( possibly 2 of the hallmarks).
The last two on the right. I think it's London registered? It's the one that looks like a q that intrigues me.

Thanks all

 

Just wind it gently until you meet with resistance, then stop is the only rule I know.

 

The rule is to use your thumb and index finger

Consider taking the watch off your wrist when winding it, this minimizes opportunities to accidentally bend the stem since you will be holding it straight on. Some people recommend gently winding the crown back and forth to better feel when a full wind is achieved, I don’t feel any more in touch with the watch with that method, but it must work for some people

I don’t know about the hallmarks, but someone will

 

Thank you very much. When will I know when I have wound it enough? I presume it is possible to over wind.

 

Thank you. I guess I got lazy with having automatic watches for so long.

 

Slow and smooth wins the race. Two fingers, off the wrist. Feel for resistance. It happens quickly when it happens. My fingers are tuned for manual wind as well as automatic. I can feel the slip on automatics. Over time you will get it too but slow at first.

 

The marks mean that your case was actually made in London by D Shackman and Sons and has the q hallmark for 1971. It’s not unusual for solid gold Omegas to have a locally made case. I had exactly that model a while back.

 

Thank you so much.

 

Thank you Padders. I'm guessing that dates the watch to 1971 then 1970 then?
What do you know about the case maker? Thanks.

 

Thank you Edward53

 

Lots of info on Shackman and Sons on the forum. Just use the search function. Basically they were a UK gold/silversmith who made a lot of cases for Omega in the 60's, and although not held in quite the same regard as the Swiss made cases by some, they have a following in their own right due to the quality.

 

Wow. Thank you David. That's fascinating. I bought the watch as I was under the impression it was a 1970 Geneve. The year I was born! It is a 1971 watch according to the hallmarks.
Oh well. I guess this gives me another excuse to buy a vintage Omega.

Thanks again.

 

Sorry I should've said 50's-70's (possibly earlier?)

 

The stamp means the case was 'assayed' in that year, the movement may have been 69/70 so if burst year is important to you, you could get an extract from Omega to confirm. Personally I'd be happy that it's there or thereabouts.

 

David, am I right in thinking the watch is 1971 though?

 

My only advice for a newbie is. GET OUT, get out while you still have your sanity and some savings.