Do you have any opinions on this Omega Constellation Pie Pan?

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Hello dear members of Omega forums!

I would like your opinions on this Omega Constellation Pie Pan that I bought for 800 € some time ago with my dad (who is also an omega lover) in a local watchmaker in Portugal. I’m reading posts on the forum and on Desmonds blog for maybe one year and did some research before and after buying. But knowing that this model is subject to various alterations I prefer to ask to be sure.

So, this is what I know about this watch :
  • Reference : 168.005
  • Mechanism : Cal 564 (25.xxx dates to 1967). Wich is late but correct from what I read on the forum.
  • Crown isn’t correct
  • Plexi isn’t original
  • I have no idea if the buckle is a genuine omega buckle. I just know that it doesn’t match the model nor period of the watch.
  • From my point of view the case looks pretty sharp
  • The dial : has some patina, but I find it appealing ; passes the MOY test (photo below)
  • Hands seems correct
  • The watch has been serviced before the selling

Did I missed something? I’m interested in having your precious opinions!


Thanks in advance for your replies!


 
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I think your assessment's correct—the case looks great, and it's hard to imagine too much has been messed with, given that its not trying to hide its patina. I too have questions about the hands (specifically re if that's lume or onyx or what, and if they match the dial), but I imagine more experts will be along shortly.
 
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(specifically re if that's lume or onyx or what, and if they match the dial)
It is black paint matching the black paint on hour markers which have been faded and there are little bits left on them.
 
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IMHO this one is “pass” by only seeing the damage on the dial at 11-12 o clock which is not patina!
 
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Lovely case on that one - shame about the dial condition.

It looks as if there is a Portuguese import mark on the upper left lug.
 
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Lovely case on that one - shame about the dial condition.

It looks as if there is a Portuguese import mark on the upper left lug.

Woah. I need your glasses, I think. Wouldn’t have spotted that in a million years.
 
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Lovely case on that one - shame about the dial condition.

It looks as if there is a Portuguese import mark on the upper left lug.

Yes! You are absolutely right
 
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The dial is quite damaged but the case is in such good condition. Still a great watch.
 
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I would try source a dial....or seek a professional to refinish it.
 
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I would try source a dial....or seek a professional to refinish it.

I understand your point, but for me the two options that you mention would kill the originality of the watch. And I assure you that when you wear the watch the damage is not so noticeable.
 
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I understand your point, but for me the two options that you mention would kill the originality of the watch. And I assure you that when you wear the watch the damage is not so noticeable.

I don’t know anything about Omega but I think your instinct is completely correct. Vintage silver dials from a certain era have a unique and beautiful shine which pictures cannot capture faithfully— and which often transcends their blemishes and imperfections. A watch is designed to be worn and if it makes you happy on your wrist you’re much better off keeping the original dial than having it refinished.

The refinished dial might also look much flatter, and it could be completely messed up— as we’ve seen redialers rarely achieve the level of perfection their customers wish for.
 
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I don’t know anything about Omega but I think your instinct is completely correct. Vintage silver dials from a certain era have a unique and beautiful shine which pictures cannot capture faithfully— and which often transcends their blemishes and imperfections. A watch is designed to be worn and if it makes you happy on your wrist you’re much better off keeping the original dial than having it refinished.

The refinished dial might also look much flatter, and it could be completely messed up— as we’ve seen redialers rarely achieve the level of perfection their customers wish for.

Thanks for your comment! I absolutely share your opinion.