Hello, My grandfather passed away in December and my father is now in possession of his Omega Contellation. My father is not a watch person but I want to get it restored for him. I will post my poorly taken pictures with this initial post and take better pictures later today. It is stainless steel has a black dial and the 564 movement. The watch itself still functions however the date can not be changed through crown adjustments. My questions: Should I have Omega service/restore it? What can I expect to pay to have them do it? Will it alter the value/rarity of the watch to have certain things done or not done to it? How can I know if a watchmaker is qualified and/or trustworthy to work on the watch and not take advantage of me? Additionally as I was researching I contacted Quality Vintage Timepieces and they told me to not have anyone touch the dial because it is rare. They are also considering servicing/restoring it for me(I am send thing them the same pictures I will post later on this thread). -has anyone had their watches serviced by QVT? TL;DR -1967 Omega Constellation Black Dial 564 movement -how much to get serviced? -Serviced by omega or are others(Quality Vintage Timpieces in Toronto, Canada) okay? -How much will this cost me? I am located in Buffalo, NY and don't know of any watch experts in my immediate area. Thank you, Jake PS. I know that is not the original band, it is a Speidel Twist-o-flex I plan on replacing.
Omega is probably going to charge you about $1,000 to do a complete restoration. They will likely repaint the dial, which will make it much more legible, but will kill the collector value of this piece. They will also replace a lot of the parts, possibly with parts that are functional, but not the same as what is there now. This is the main reason why we generally don't recommend using Omega for restoration. On the plus side, they will fully warranty the watch for two years. I don't know much about QVT, other that they have a lot of pieces listed on eBay. There are a couple of well known watch repair specialists in the Toronto area, as it seems that you are willing to drive up there from Buffalo. One is Archer Watches. Al is a member on this forum and posts frequently. Look him up at @Archer. Another is Shane Ede. Check the links provided. Hope this helps, gatorcpa
Here are some additional photos. An estimate I received from QVT for restoration was approximately $450. This would include crystal replacement, movement overhaul, new case back gasket, new spring bars, and the case to be polished. They would leave the dial untouched to maintain its originality. What are your guys thoughts on this watch as well as this option for restoration?
That all sounds good but I would even skip the polishing of the case. As far as the price I have not paid enough watch makers to know if it's reasonable. I'm sure others would have a better idea. edit: nice watch!!
I am paying $185 to get a mid 60's Connie 561 serviced. Had to order a new crystal, the old one had a crack near the case, but I don't know what that will add to the total. I am dealing with a guy who has his own business with little to no overhead. He also contracts with some local jewelers who he says charge near $300 for the same service. So, going to a business, I imagine the price you are being quoted is competitive for the work you have described. I don't know about QVT, other than they have pretty stuff online, I'd be interested in your feedback if that is the route you take.
Do you have any pictures of yours to post? Just curious for comparison in the condition and cost. I received another quote from Archer Watches for $350+ cost of replacing parts. Polishing not included in this one.
I will see if I can get some to post, it went off to service almost immediately after acqusition, but I might have something around. I can say mine was in very fine shape when purchased, and I didn't expect it needed anything but a service. It wasn't till the crystal came off that the crack revealed itself. The condition was very good, and the watch looks like the one PM Abe wore at the Olympics closing, the subject of another thread on here somewhere....
First of all, thanks to everyone for your replies on my awkward newbie first post. Oh how I have grown in these past few months.... Now onto the watch. Sent out my grandfather's Connie (secretly, without my father knowing) to our trusted friend Al(Archer). And boy am I happy with the results. 10 out of 10 would send a watch to Al again. Here are some of his pics, because my photos would be terrible. Now just need to get a period correct buckle, nice looking strap, and a 60's Connie box and I will have everything to give my dad quite a sentimental surprise.
Normally I'm not a fan of patinated dials, but in this case, it looks like something from the Hubble telescope and I find it both apposite to a Constellation and strangely attractive
Glad to be of service. This watch certainly had some problems...rotor pinion worn and the rotor had been rubbing the case back for a long time as you can see from the wear here: Most of the jewel were dry, but in contrast someone loaded up on oil in places where it wasn't needed: So where is all that oil coming from? I guess the previous watchmaker checked the dip stick and thought it needed more oil... Verdigris anyone? Lots of worn part inside: Clearer shot of the dial without the crystal...it's a beauty: Cheers, Al
Hi, sorry if this appears in the wrong place but I'm looking to find something or anything about this watch. It was my grandfathers. Its gold and it says omega on the dial. It works perfectly and is worn and used daily. Any information much appreciated. Sent from my SM-T813 using Tapatalk
Hey check out this thread: https://omegaforums.net/threads/vintage-omega-posting-guide.383/ If you provide the info suggested there in a new thread we will be able to help you more. Unfortunately we need more information to help you out.
It turned out great! I take it you cleaned the hands @Archer ? That must be fairly tricky without damaging them!