I'm thinking of picking up this Constellation. Unfortunately the seller will only supply these subpar photos. He's willing to meet at a reputable watchmaker, but I would like the forums opinion before I waste more time. It appears to be a 504 cal roughly 1958. The crown looks to be later (possibly from servicing)? I think the bracelet is not solid gold. The rest looks legit? Thanks guys.

 

Simple case.
If the owner wants to have a certain amount of money for it (say, more than a few hundred, which might be the case in this instance), then he is also able to have clear and clean-cut pics.
If not, stay away.
The hour-hand conveniently over the lettering?
And agree with Gator: should not have 504.

Pass.

 

Cal 504 should say "Calendar" on the dial like for ref 2943.

 

Why do you reckon this? Is it the sligthly different tone of the dial around the star, which looks a bit off to me - but that may be an issue with the lacquer?

IMO, the dial litterature (what can be discerned of it) doesn't look off. It seems to have the right format and the font isn't obviously thickly applied.

Some people, most notably senior citizens, simply do not have the technical skills or inclination to buy good camera gear. That the pictures are bad is in no way a clear indication that there are issues with the watch - many of the best deals are done with watches that has been poorly represented... Also, that he's willing to meet at a watchmaker tells me that he has confidence in his product.

 

Words are twisted or misunderstood: I merely stated that this for me would be a no-goer.
BTW: my parents of 85 are able to wield a fine picture, be it with their camera, or with the smartphone (I bought them )

 

Mission "Get MSNWatch to post more pictures" succeeded!

 

It's always a pleasure to see one of your beautiful watches Mike!

 

The 504 conjecture was partially my fault as I should know better, having own a 505 (albiet a gold capped one). He actually told me it was a watchmaker opened it up and he recalls 504 or 507 being mentioned, which can't be the case. I do think the seller is older possibly with poor english. I still can't decide whether or not to pursue it.

 

It is not a pristine Deluxe, however if you're looking at case and case back condition, it could be an average to decent specimen.
The dial might be cleaned, or could be from lacquer oxidation, but looks not bad to me. As long as you buy it for wearing,and not for selling again, it could be a potential buy.
Then it would go down to the last factor: price. If you could get it say at 20-25% below market, I would say go for it (after checking it directly of course)