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First Vintage Omega purchase - reasonable price?

skdresser
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Hi Forum Folks!
I am turning 30 next month and would like to buy myself my first vintage watch.
I found "Shuck the Oyster" where they have an affordable vintage section. Seems like a good place to start.
I came across this Constellation Calendar 168.005. It looks awesome and is just at the high end of the price range I'm looking at.
https://www.shucktheoyster.com/portfolio/omega-constellation-calendar-turler-168-005/
I'm a total Omega newbie - is this a reasonable price to pay for a sight-unseen watch? Is this an original band? Is this going to require heavy service?

Anything I need to know?
Any thoughts are appreciated.
Cheers, Scott

1758210247022.webp 1758210254139.webp 1758210274455.webp
 
Dan S
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I don't see any obvious problems with the watch, but I suggest searching the forum for feedback about that seller. Their name has come up many times, and usually not in a positive light.

In general, you are always going to pay a large premium to buy from a professional dealer. So if you are going to do that, try to make sure that you buy from someone who is widely recommended.

By the way, where are you located? With tariffs these days, it can make a big difference.
 
Davidt
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When looking at dog leg Constellations bear in mind dome dials (like the one you posted) are less sought after, collectible and valuable than pie pan dials.
 
SOG53
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Photos are ( deliberately ) overexposed to hide flaws on dial and case. Even so I can see lots of spotting on dial. Turler adds no value.
I wouldn’t jump at this one to me it’s overpriced by 1000.
Take your time look here on Private Watch sales you’ll find something nice at fair price. Do some research lots of options

Here is thread with great examples from OF members you’re bound to find something you like, then research the reference so you can search for the one

https://omegaforums.net/threads/vintage-constellations-show-and-tell.19186/ Cover Image
Thread 'Vintage Constellations. Show and tell' ·
Please show your vintage Constellations.

Would be great to see the variations in a new thread. I'll go first.

1961 Pie pan, Cal 561, Case Ref 14393, on a period 7912 Bracelet (stainless steel)...
JohnSteed ·

Good luck stick around and ask questions before buying.
 
Peemacgee
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Welcome @skdresser

Not everyone prefers a pie pan and a dome dial dogleg is a lovely gift to buy yourself as a 30th present but this one is massively overpriced.
(Pie pans are valued more highly in the general market)

Patience is key to find a decent watch at a decent price.
 
Peemacgee
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What is going on with the lugs nearest the camera?
There is no ridge there to collect dirt ( and it’s the same on the opposite angle pic )
Have these images been enhanced by AI by any chance?
IMG_2878.webp
 
S
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Apparently just serviced by their watchmaker and still runs +25/day. But yes, very overpriced, and probably needs another service.
 
qazwsx1
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It’s too expensive, and the real dial should have quite many small spots.

But in the photo, we can’t see them clearly because the light was too bright when it was taken.
 
skdresser
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Dan S Dan S
I don't see any obvious problems with the watch, but I suggest searching the forum for feedback about that seller. Their name has come up many times, and usually not in a positive light.

In general, you are always going to pay a large premium to buy from a professional dealer. So if you are going to do that, try to make sure that you buy from someone who is widely recommended.

By the way, where are you located? With tariffs these days, it can make a big difference.
Thanks! In NYC - hadn’t even considered tariffs…
 
skdresser
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qazwsx1 qazwsx1
It’s too expensive, and the real dial should have quite many small spots.

But in the photo, we can’t see them clearly because the light was too bright when it was taken.
The dial should have small spots? That’s helpful. Thanks.
 
Dan S
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skdresser skdresser
The dial should have small spots? That’s helpful. Thanks.
I think he is saying that in real life the dial is covered in small undesirable spots (e.g. blisters) that are hard to see because of the harsh lighting and photo processing.
 
gbesq
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Welcome skdresser. Are you looking specifically for a constellation with dog legs lugs or are you somewhat flexible - for example a different style lugs but still with a constellation?
 
skdresser
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gbesq gbesq
Welcome skdresser. Are you looking specifically for a constellation with dog legs lugs or are you somewhat flexible - for example a different style lugs but still with a constellation?
I suppose I'm open-minded. I think the constellation with the dog legs have a great classic look to them so I'm drawn there. But open to different styles as well.
 
liquidsongbird
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You’ve been given good advice here. Be patient and you can likely get the same watch here, at a better price, and in good condition. I have purchased from the forum and have been very happy with the purchases. Good luck.
 
Dan S
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OP, please be careful. Best to buy from established forum members with feedback and references
 
Davidt
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There are also condition issues with that dial.
 
gbesq
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skdresser skdresser
I suppose I'm open-minded. I think the constellation with the dog legs have a great classic look to them so I'm drawn there. But open to different styles as well.
Here are a few tips:

1. You've already done two things correctly. First, you joined as a member to Omega Forums. Second, you didn't purchase the first watch that you saw and instead you requested advice from OF members BEFORE you considered a purchase. Good move.

2. The next thing to do is read these:

https://omegaforums.net/threads/learn-how-to-fish.52603/

http://omega-constellation-collectors.blogspot.com/

3. Then decide which model or models interest you. Then find more information on those models and READ, READ and READ. Ask questions. READ more.

4. Look here for two places when you’re ready to purchase:

https://omegaforums.net/forums/private-watch-sales/

https://omegaforums.net/threads/recommended-vintage-omega-watches-only-on-ebay-not-for-inquiries.1790/ MSNWatch
Thread 'Recommended Vintage OMEGA WATCHES (only) On EBAY (NOT for Inquiries)' ·
We have lots of threads from members asking opinions on watches listed on ebay. How about we turn things around - let's talk about watches on ebay that are worth purchasing. My disclaimer is...
MSNWatch ·

5. Don't rush.
Edited:
 
skdresser
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SOG53 SOG53
Photos are ( deliberately ) overexposed to hide flaws on dial and case. Even so I can see lots of spotting on dial. Turler adds no value.
I wouldn’t jump at this one to me it’s overpriced by 1000.
Take your time look here on Private Watch sales you’ll find something nice at fair price. Do some research lots of options

Here is thread with great examples from OF members you’re bound to find something you like, then research the reference so you can search for the one

https://omegaforums.net/threads/vintage-constellations-show-and-tell.19186/ Cover Image
Thread 'Vintage Constellations. Show and tell' ·
Please show your vintage Constellations.

Would be great to see the variations in a new thread. I'll go first.

1961 Pie pan, Cal 561, Case Ref 14393, on a period 7912 Bracelet (stainless steel)...
JohnSteed ·

Good luck stick around and ask questions before buying.
Is there a good way to search within the Private Watch Sales thread? I'd like to see all the Constellations currently for sale, but the filters and search are a little clunky to use. Any tips? Cheers.
 
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