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Is it in too bad a condition to be salvageable?

letouriste
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@gbesq
Do you mean they could do a cost estimate before they even have the watch in hand?
Just from the pictures?
 
gbesq
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letouriste letouriste
@gbesq
Do you mean they could do a cost estimate before they even have the watch in hand?
Just from the pictures?
No, you would have to send it to them to get a precise estimate. Tanner might be able to give you a possible range for the repair cost from the photos, but no guarantee. No harm in emailing him though.
 
ALEJANDRO BOVONE
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partswise Omega produced many watches so they are available still new for service of the mechanical parts. you should try to be certain he will not polish the case nor touch the dial. you can even come across a fantastic dial at some point in the future if you look thoroughly
 
letouriste
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@gbesq
Thank you for your reference of a good watchmaker service. For the moment I'm waiting for the Omega service center in Montreal to invite me to go and pick up my watch before taking any other steps. I will start by seeing if I can find a good watchmaker near the Montreal area (I already received a suggestion from a forrum member). If that's not conclusive, I'll then look for more distant options, including yours.

@ALEJANDRO BOVONE
Yes my intention is to have a good maintenance-repair-adjustment service of the internal mechanics. It is possible that the crown will have to be replaced due to the loss of a very visible and substantial part of its plating, but I will see what the watchmaker will propose... For the rest of the case and the dial; just a good cleaning with a strict minimum of correction of what really needs it and can be easily done without altering its general patina. My goal is to maintain its well-worn look, but in a way that it looks clean and still elegant, but above all perfectly functional.
 
ALEJANDRO BOVONE
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letouriste letouriste
@gbesq
Thank you for your reference of a good watchmaker service. For the moment I'm waiting for the Omega service center in Montreal to invite me to go and pick up my watch before taking any other steps. I will start by seeing if I can find a good watchmaker near the Montreal area (I already received a suggestion from a forrum member). If that's not conclusive, I'll then look for more distant options, including yours.

@ALEJANDRO BOVONE
Yes my intention is to have a good maintenance-repair-adjustment service of the internal mechanics. It is possible that the crown will have to be replaced due to the loss of a very visible and substantial part of its plating, but I will see what the watchmaker will propose... For the rest of the case and the dial; just a good cleaning with a strict minimum of correction of what really needs it and can be easily done without altering its general patina. My goal is to maintain its well-worn look, but in a way that it looks clean and still elegant, but above all perfectly functional.

you have a pretty good idea on how to proceed, looking forward for pics of the results!
 
T
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I think you can get this sorted for reasonable money. My calibre 565 sat for years in non-working condition with a damaged hand (that was my bad) and the movement disintegrated when the watchmaker opened the case...


My watchmaker in LA was able to get the whole thing working again for $500 USD + 1/yr warranty.
 
letouriste
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Yes, based on the feedback I have received from forum members, I should be able to find a watchmaker who will restore my watch for a reasonable price. Rest assured that I will complete the story of the restoration of this watch with photos and relevant details.

But before all that, I need the Omega service center in Montreal to call me when it's back from Switzerland so I can get it back...

T TurboBrick
I think you can get this sorted for reasonable money. My calibre 565 sat for years in non-working condition with a damaged hand (that was my bad) and the movement disintegrated when the watchmaker opened the case...
My watchmaker in LA was able to get the whole thing working again for $500 USD + 1/yr warranty.
 
letouriste
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I finally had my watch serviced locally at the "Timeless Watches" boutique in Montreal. I believe the result is correct.

The watchmaker did not polish the watch case (that was the understanding), but I am a bit surprised that he did not polish or replace the glass which was and still is quite scratched (I would have thought that would be implied). The crown, which is missing a piece of the gold plating, has not been replaced, which is what was agreed.

The internal mechanism was dismantled, cleaned, oiled and adjusted. I was told that it was not necessary to replace any parts.

All the corrosion that was in the watch seems to have disappeared. The winding balance is still very much stained or discolored, but I believe this is of no consequence.

I was told that the watch failed the water resistance test, this is very annoying; I can't see myself having to take my watch off every time I want to wash my hands... it's a shame because it's going to put a damper on my desire to wear it on a regular basis, it won't be able to be my everyday watch in every situation.

As I have just received it, it is too early to know if it will hold the time accurately, but the work is guaranteed for 2 years.

I think this (limited) maintenance service cost me quite a bit; $850 canadian + taxes.

Overall the watch is clean and I am very happy with it.
4 Devant moyen.JPG
Edited:
 
2 Ext devant droit.JPG 5 Devant GP int.jpg 6 Int gauche.JPG 7 Int droit.JPG 8 Int angle.JPG
MtV
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Mmh. Might be just me, but I’d expect the regulator to sit in the middle after a service to leave room for small adjustments both ways in the forthcoming years…

I’m not surprised it failed the water resistance test, especially if the old crown was kept. You’ll have to decide yourself how careful you can be in everyday life. I’m wearing vintage, non-waterproof watches all the time and do not take them off when washing my hands. At the same time, I do so carefully and make sure they don’t get wet. I also don’t expose them to rain or steam during cooking etc.

A bit of care and you’ll enjoy this lovely piece for decades to come. 😀
Edited:
 
Davidt
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Glad this has ended reasonably well. A couple of thoughts.

1. I would absolutely expect the crystal to be polished or replaced at service (or at least a discussion around your thoughts on how to progress). However, if it’s just scratches a combination of wet and dry paper or most abrasive polishing compounds, followed by a finer finish such as polywatch or even toothpaste should have the crystal looking better.

2. I’d also have kept the crown if I couldn’t source a period replacement.

3. Don’t be too concerned about the waterproof test. I wear vintage watches most days, many of which failed the waterproof test. I simply exercise common sense, be careful when washing hands, washing up/whatever. It could be worn most days with a small amount of care and attention
 
noelekal
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Thank you letouriste for reporting back on your watch. It has a good home with you and I would approvingly notice it if I spied it on your wrist.
 
Dan S
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Well at least the watchmaker didn't do anything you didn't want done. Sounds Iike a very basic service, which should hopefully be sufficient for you. You can always polish the crystal yourself. If you want them to do it, just take it back.
 
Larry S
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The watch is beautiful. One of the joys of these old birds is style and patina. One of the downsides is that to maintain originality, like the crown, one sacrifices water resistance. You will adapt. I’m so glad you had a great outcome!
 
Schmedsc
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Looks great! Polish out the crystal and you’ll be good. I also wouldn’t worry too much about the hand washing, unless you’re going into surgery. It’s nice to see a success story.
 
Syrte
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Congrats on the recovery of your precious heirloom, and don’t be disappointed, no vintage watch is water resistant ever. You just need to get used to being careful and wear a cheap quartz « beater » watch for rainy weather, gardening or sports activities which may involve shock or water.

Well worth bringing back to life though, the dial is very charming with its patina, and the original clover crown is beautiful so always nice to retain.👍
 
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