Calibre 8500: Do they all have a silicon balance spring?

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Archer

·Jan 28, 2023·Omega Qualified Watchmaker

EuroDriver

I don't think that the silicon balance spring in and of itself will bring an 8500A to "Master Co-Axial" spec. The 8500G had additional parts updated with non-magnetic parts (although I couldn't find out exactly what those additional parts are) and the upgrade would still lack the official Master" certification, just like the 8500B.

Additional parts are the pallet fork, co-axial wheel, balance staff, and shock springs on the cap jewels...going from memory...

 

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EuroDriver

·Jan 28, 2023

@Archer thank you for filling in the gaps

 

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josiahg52

·Jan 28, 2023

Yeah, I think that pretty much sums it all up. I'm interested in a blue teak Aqua Terra. Not sure which one, though. I think the cal. 2500 watches are nice, too. I like the cal. 8800 in my new Seamaster and the accuracy potential it brings. The Skyfall Aqua Terra is a neat piece. I was just getting confused with what each version bought to the table. This helps very much.

 

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EuroDriver

·Jan 28, 2023

I expanded my previous reply to your earlier observations to clarify in more detail. Good luck on your search and let us know which one you acquire.

 

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josiahg52

·Jan 28, 2023

EuroDriver

I expanded my previous reply to your earlier observations to clarify in more detail. Good luck on your search and let us know which one you acquire.

Really, very helpful. Cleared up much of my confusion.

 

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JDB6Nine

·Feb 11, 2023

Hello, The AT with 8500 you are seeking does have Si14. However, not all 8500s have the Si14. When the 8500 was originally launched in 2007 in the DeVille Hour Vision, it had a Nivarox hairspring. The Si14 was released in 2008, so 8500s have it thereafter.

 

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EuroDriver

·Feb 11, 2023

Thank you for the info.
Through my research, I found out that the AT "Skyfall" were among the first - if not the first 8500s to receive the Si14 balance spring.

I finally got my 41.5mm Skyfall and I can confirm it has the Si14 hairspring