Inherited my Grandfather's old Seamaster 300

I never knew my grandfather - he passed away in the mid 70's when my mother was 8.

I happened to show my new watch (SKX009) to my mother the other day. She commented that it reminded her of the watch her father wore, and that her sister may still have it. I reached out to my Aunt about it, and while she told me that she definitely didn't have his old Seiko, she did have his Omega.

And now it's mine. Considering that it has likely been sitting in a box for 45 years, it's in pretty good shape. My goal is to get it to look as good as possible, and get it serviced by a shop with a fabulous reputation.

I will, however, bring it in for a movement tune up ASAP. While it still works, it seems to be running rather fast, and I'd like to get that remedied.

Unfortunately, I don't have a watch case opener yet, so I can't see what reference this is. Anybody happen to know? I've seen a lot of Seamaster 300's with this bezel, but very few with the same dial and hands.

Finally, any recommendations on who to send this to? While price is certainly a factor for me, I will pay the right person whatever it costs to get this done right. I want to have the lume pip replaced if possible, and I would love to have the hour hand relumed to match the other hands, though I understand if that's just not possible anymore. I want to keep the crystal intact, as I used some polywatch since the photos were taken (see included wrist shot) and I feel like the minimal scratches vibe well with the general patina of the watch. I understand that getting a period correct bezel for this watch will likely cost more than I'm able to spend, so I'm ok with that. I just want to send this watch to someone that will respect the general patina of the piece while cleaning it up - I definitely don't want to send someone this watch and get it back with an unexpected polish or something like that.

Wow, great story and congrats !

Lol that's too funny.

This is a great looking watch! I think it can be also a 14755-61. Maybe from 1961, 1962. You don't need to touch it. I think a service to the movement is enough. The case is not heavily polished.

Wish I could dig something like that up from the attic of a relative 🥰🥰🥰 Movement service only required, anything more will ruin it. And seeing as nobody has yet : dibs 😀 Congratulations and WIGH

Dont do anything apart from a correct service .. the watch is fabulous as is ..

The single most important decision is which independent watchmaker to send it to - NOT to Omega Bienne or Omega Boutiques. Should leave dial, hands, plexy, crown untouched. A first class service to the movement, ultrasonic cleaning of the case (NOT the bezel) - without any polishing or refinishing. And that's it.

According to your area, somebody here can give advise on which watchmaker to choose. I can advise about UK and Italy. Must be somebody who will not change anything before asking you, and specialised on vintage.

Damn, that is a great heirloom. I would definitely get it a tender movement service only and then wear it. Gongrats 👍

San Francisco, but I'm willing to send it across the country if need be to get proper service.

Be aware that this is an exceptionally collectable and high-value watch. Take your time before making any decisions.

Wonderful heirloom and striking watch. Much like a lot of us, it’s showing a little history and no shame in that. Get a service and wear it in good health.

Great looking watch. I'm out in the east bay and I'd say there are number of options near you. Like others have said it's important that you specifically tell whoever you choose to service it not to polish that case 👍

I'm east bay too - emeryville to be specific. Any specific options on who to take it to?

i have read good things about http://www.usaworldtime.com/ in san jose. more than just the battery changers in 1/2 the yelp reviews.

wherever you go be explicit to not polish, buff, or restore the case. you inherited a beautiful watch, sentimental value aside, could be worth more than $10k so take care of it.

There are a couple of options. It'll also depend on your budget. I've heard a couple people mention the above but I've also heard that guy may be backlogged. You'd have to check on that one. I use and recommend Paul's Watch Repair in Sacramento. They are very fairly priced and do quick work. There is also this one located in San Francisco. They will be on the pricier end however.