Birth year watch - 1996

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Appleseed6

·Jan 7, 2024

My son became a father and I'd like to pick up a 2531.80 Seamaster from his birth year, 1996.

The tables of serial numbers online get a little fuzzy about then.

Any advice about finding a watch for him?

P.S. Calling 1996 vintage makes me feel older than being a grandfather does. 🤦

 

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Dsloan

·Jan 7, 2024

I'd probably hop on Chrono24 and search by year. And, if he asks "is this really from 1996?" I'd just say "you know, the serial numbers get a little fuzzy around then..."

Is 1996 vintage though!? Egads!

 

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Appleseed6

·Jan 7, 2024

Google led me to this page... https://www.emmywatch.com/db/serial/omega/

By plugging in numbers and narrowing down the window, it seems like 55,300,000 - 55,500,000 is the sweet spot for 1996 non-Speedys.

 

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MtnMarine

·Jan 7, 2024

I feel like getting anything with full box/papers dated to that year would do. Birth year watches are an anomaly, but I know your son will appreciate it.
The experts can clarify but a 3572.50 might go into 1996. You’ll probably get a full lume vs tritium but they’re still great watches.
Good luck with your purchase!

 

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Appleseed6

·Jan 7, 2024

Thanks for the reply, MM.

I didn't search for a Speedy for two reasons: First, I have two that he will enherit (3560.50.00 & 310.30.42.50.01.002). Second, he's a tradesman (electrician) and any hesalite crystal is going to get beat to heck quickly.

 

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padders

·Jan 7, 2024·Oooo subtitles!

Different movements seem to run in different serial sequences from around 1988 onwards so use caution if dating based solely on serial number. That said I agree that there are Omegas with 55m serials from around that year. One tip to bear in mind is that no Omega from 1996 will have Superluninova lume material as that came slightly later. You have a fighting chance therefore of a tritium dial Automatic SMP being from 1996 since there were only about 3 years of tritium dial usage.

 

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DenisChalandier

·Jan 8, 2024

Tables won't help you to be sure. It's an indication but at that time the numbers are not running straight.

The only way is to look for a watch with papers. There is one from 11/1996 on C24 😉