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Converting 2264.50 to 2254.50

A
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Hi guys

New here. Very limited watch knowledge
Been offered a nice 2264.50 but quite old - 2003. If the quartz fails could a mechanical calibre 1120 be used as a replacement? Are the case size, dial, hands etc the same?
Or should I say no and look for a 2254?
Mank thanks
 
140dave
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I do not know if it will fit, but pretty sure it will not make any sense financially to do so even if you can. Just buy a 2254 if thats what you really want; save the time, hassle, and probably some money too.
 
A
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Thanks
Does anyone have any info on the lifespan of the omega quartz movements? The one offered is already 20 years old and has never been serviced
 
padders
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You can't convert them. The cases are physically different, the Quartz case depth for instance is about a mm less than the auto. The dial and maybe hands would also need to change too even if you got round the caseback clearance issue.

The 1538 movement is very robust, I can't see it flaking too soon even at that age and you could get it serviced if you are worried. Or replaced which is what Omega do themselves. Get the 2264 if you like it and the price is right, by which I mean several hundred quid less than an auto.
 
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Thanks padders
Yes - it at least several hundred quid cheaper
If the quartz were to fail in time can they be repaired (depending on what fails obviously) or is it more likely that the whole movement needs to be replaced .......and are they easy to source?
Could a different quartz movement be used?
Worried about a failed movement and ending up with a dead watch
Lots of questions. Thanks for your patience
 
padders
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Well it’s best to keep it all Omega but in fact the 1538 is a rebadged ETA design which is freely available. Yes you can repair them.
 
sathomasga
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A angrysurg
If the quartz were to fail in time can they be repaired (depending on what fails obviously) or is it more likely that the whole movement needs to be replaced

Omega specifically recommends replacing the movement rather than repairing it, but in theory it is possible to repair some parts.

Omega 1538 Technical Guide said:
The policy for local repair is:

We recommend a movement exchange (see Working Instruction no. 31).

In case of local repair, the exchange or replacement of spare parts must be made according to the movement version (see engraving on main plate). Example: On a movement calibre 1538B, the parts to exchange or replace are those mentioned under version 1538B.

A angrysurg
.......and are they easy to source?

Maybe if you have an Omega parts account.

A angrysurg
Could a different quartz movement be used?

ETA 255.461 is a drop-in replacement, but it's not decorated. (Not that you can see the 1538 anyway.)

A angrysurg
Worried about a failed movement and ending up with a dead watch

You could always send it to Omega for service. Who knows when their stock of spare 1538s will be exhausted, but there's no indication it will be any time soon.

But honestly, the 1538 is a fine, robust movement. I expect mine to outlive me.
Edited:
 
A
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Cheers everyone
Last question
Is it worth doing a straight swap of a 213.30.42.40.01.001 chrono from 2010 for a quartz 2264.50 from 2003? (that's the offer - as I find the chrono far too thick to wear)
Thanks
 
padders
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In short No. The chrono is worth maybe £500 more than the 2264 IMO. Maybe more in fact. I too think its too thick and chunky tho. If the 2264 owner will put a few hundred quid your way then it does make sense, otherwise not so much.
 
A
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I have big hands and thick wrists but even for me the chrono is really clunky and I hardly ever wear it - maybe a dozen times in 10 years or so.
It was a gift so not shedding too many tears. Will try and negotiate a little on top
 
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