Dial Change or Not ?

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Bafty

·Sep 27, 2023

My late father gave me this watch back in the 60's when I was about fifteen, I'm now in my early 70's owning the watch around 55 years.

Some years back the watch was sent back to Omega for a service / polish and they mention the dial was quite discoloured and did I want to replace it, anyway I didn't at the time but now thinking I might.

As I don't have the original doc's can someone identify the watch and perhaps give some advice on future refurbishment possible change the dial and it would be advisable.

Thanks

Edited: Sep 27, 2023

 

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Dan S

·Sep 27, 2023

The information you need is inside the watch, so maybe you can have it opened and post photos of the serial number on the movement and reference number inside the case-back.

Personally, I would not consider replacing that dial after owning it for 55 years. It shows some age, but it still looks appealing to me, and you would erase the history in trying to make it look new. Very few people have a story like you have with that watch.

 

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gbesq

·Sep 27, 2023

Agree with Dan. Service the movement and leave the dial as is. It’s still very attractive and has a story to tell.

 

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ecarpino

·Sep 27, 2023

It could be a 166.037 looking at the pictures, but indeed opening the case back would solve every doubt.

As per the dial, I would definitely keep the original one as it has a nice patina to it, plus it adds a lot of personality to the watch!

 

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Bafty

·Sep 27, 2023

Thanks so much for the reply's, very much appreciated

 

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dsio

·Sep 27, 2023·Ash @ ΩF

I’d definitely keep the dial given how long it’s been with you, it still looks fine to me and original is always better if possible

 

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Jones in LA

·Sep 27, 2023·Not in LA anymore.

For sure keep the original dial. It can be a great conversation starter, with an opportunity to talk about your father and the watch itself.

Edited: Sep 27, 2023

 

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Davidt

·Sep 27, 2023

Looks like a 166.003 but more pictures of the profile (or inside the caseback will confirm).

I agree with the general sentiment that there’s no way I’d replace that dial though.

 

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Spruce

·Sep 27, 2023·Sunburst dial fan

Davidt

Looks like a 166.003 but more pictures of the profile (or inside the caseback will confirm).

I agree with the general sentiment that there’s no way I’d replace that dial though.

If it’s a 166.003, the crown may be a replacement - it protrudes slightly more than I’d expect although it may just be the angle of the photo.

 

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Syrte

·Sep 27, 2023

Hi there,
Don’t let anyone polish the case anymore!
If and when you need it serviced, make sure you find a good independent watchmaker recommended on the forum.

 

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SOG53

·Sep 27, 2023

That dial is only original once. And you are original owner. Its special.

 

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Bafty

·Sep 28, 2023

Spruce

If it’s a 166.003, the crown may be a replacement - it protrudes slightly more than I’d expect although it may just be the angle of the photo.

The crown was in fact replaced as part of the service, I have the original crown along with other parts, in comparison with my eyes it appears to be the same.

Thanks for the reply.

 

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Bafty

·Sep 28, 2023

Syrte

Hi there,
Don’t let anyone polish the case anymore!
If and when you need it serviced, make sure you find a good independent watchmaker recommended on the forum.

Thanks for the advice Syrte...I won't !