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Could this seamaster from the '70s be a good buy?

C
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Hey, totally new and clueless, hope I'm within forum rules and all that.
I have been considering bidding on a vintage Seamaster, described as "Gents Omega Seamaster, Electronic F300Hz, Chronometer wristwatch, circa 1970s, gold-plated case, 32mm, ox-blood red leather strap, buckle clasp, good condition, minor wear, working". It's valued at about $400-500. Thanks!
 
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Spruce
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Well, these are lovely watches IMO but can be costly to repair if they go wrong and, since they’re about 50+ years old, parts can sometimes be hard to find.
Repair and service are costly because the number of specialist watchmakers is diminishing.
The watch you post has three obvious problems. First, at 32mm, it’s pretty small. Most of these are around 36/37 diameter.
Second, the fact that the date window shows it between dates at 10:2, suggests that there is a problem.
Third, the top right lug is damaged and I’m guessing that the crown is a replacement.
I’d keep looking. For the price you quote, I’d expect better.
 
Spruce
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Just to add that I have three of these
 
C
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Spruce Spruce
Well, these are lovely watches IMO but can be costly to repair if they go wrong and, since they’re about 50+ years old, parts can sometimes be hard to find.
Repair and service are costly because the number of specialist watchmakers is diminishing.
The watch you post has three obvious problems. First, at 32mm, it’s pretty small. Most of these are around 36/37 diameter.
Second, the fact that the date window shows it between dates at 10:2, suggests that there is a problem.
Third, the top right lug is damaged and I’m guessing that the crown is a replacement.
I’d keep looking. For the price you quote, I’d expect better.

Awesome, thank you! That's extremely helpful.
 
Spruce
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You might also look on chrono24 for Omega electronic or Omega F300. The prices are slightly higher but there’s generally a selection for you to compare.

Some, of course, are way overpriced but some sellers indicate that they’re open to offers.

Given that a service would probably cost around £300, it probably makes sense to buy a watch that has already been serviced or is stated to be in very good condition
 
Dan S
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It appears that the gold plating is badly damaged on the upper-right lug.
 
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