I want to start by saying I'm not familiar with the art Omega collecting, but I really like the looks of the old Seamasters. I was browsing ebay watch looked nice I bought it for $300. Then I found this forum and realized I should have done more homework before buying my first Omega. Seller represented it as "!950's era Omega Seamaster automatic watch. Good condition and runs well. Silver case." That was the full description. So I guess my questions are did he misrepresent the watch, is it authentic, or a franken? Should I ask for a refund? My objective is just to have a nice collectible good running stylish vintage Seamaster for everyday wear. I've included photographs, any insight would be greatly appreciated.
The dial looks refinished and the movement should be a 562, not a 552: http://www.omegawatches.com/planet-omega/heritage/vintage-omegas/vintage-watches-database?ref=14797 Likely a franken-redialed watch. But if it works and you like it, I would be happy with it. You did not pay that much, and you wont find easily a modern watch that nice for the price. A wearer if you like it, but not a collectors watch.
The dial is refinished and the case is stainless steel, not silver. It also appears to have the wrong movement. This model should also have a date function and house the 562 movement. So i think you might have a franken watch. Given all these factors, this is not a collectable watch. If you like it and plan to wear it, then you may want to keep it since you paid around what it may be worth in parts. Otherwise send it back.
Actually from ca 1966 and as noted already this reference should contain a caliber 562 movement with date. The dial has been refinished in a style unlike anything Omega would have offered for this reference, or any other for that matter. Even with the vague description given by the seller you should have grounds for returning the watch. I'd send it back and look for a correct one, there is no upside to this one.
Imho, if you keep it and hang out here at all its 'wrongness' will eat away at you. Can you afford another $100-$150 to get one with the right parts and a nice original dial?
Thanks for all the help. After the responses and reading more, I think I would be happier with one in worse condition that had all original parts. Since I'm new to the Omega thing what would be a good model, Cal. to hone in on? Maybe $700 or less. Would love to get on with numbers on the dial.