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Is this a reason to return my Constellation?

V
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I recently bought a beautiful 1966 Constellation 168.017 Cal. 561, which I really like.
I just now discovered something in the photos of the movement which is worrisome.
I wanted to ask if the marks above the "Omega Watch Co." are a cause for concern.
It looks to me like some kind of scraping must have taken place.
Is this a cause for alarm regarding future problems with the movement?
Would this be reason enough to return it?
I would love to be able to keep it, but I could return it for a refund, if warranted.
I was wondering if someone knowledgable here might enlighten me and let me know if the watch has a problem, or if it's not serious.
Many thanks in advance for your expertise!
closeup.jpg closeup2.jpg closeup3.jpg
 
efauser
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Looks like there was or is rotor rub. If the watch hasn't been serviced, that will be corrected with the service. If you know that it has been, then it's likely a past problem.
 
V
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Thanks for the quick reply.
Unfortunately no mention by the seller of a known service for this watch.
In terms of the rub, there seems to be no indication on the inside of the caseback of any rubbing there, as far as I can see (with my untrained eye).
Edited:
 
wilderbeast
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Always worth factoring in a service with any vintage watch purchase, unless you have clear proof that one was done very recently. Aside from this, it looks like a handsome watch (though I’m no expert). If you have a watchmaker you normally use and trust, then great. If not, pass on your location here and I’m sure members here will be able to point you in the right direction!
 
V
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Absolutely, those are the ones!
I just wondered if they should be cause for concern.
 
Tet
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Wouldn't put me off tbh. If it is a current issue at least sortable.
 
Canuck
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There are traces on the inside surface of the case back that the rotor has been rubbing. There is also evidence on the rotor itself that this has been happening. The usual cause for this is a worn rotor bearing gear. This is a common problem with older self-wind watches. It has been a while since I have placed an order for one of these bearing gears, so I don’t know what the supply is like, outside of Omega themselves. If you did return this watch for a refund in favour of buying another equivalent watch, there is a high probability the replacement will have a similar problem, or worse! Get accustomed to the idea that, if you are going to be buying antique and vintage watches, you should plan on having them serviced. You said that you bought the watch “recently”, and the seller said it had been serviced. I am unable to say whether it had been serviced or not. But from the stains on the rotor, I have my suspicions. A complete service should have included a new rotor bearing gear!
 
V
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Thanks very much for the analysis.

No, the seller did not mention any service, so surely none has been done.

I have to admit I know nothing about movements, so I'm very grateful for any advice and guidance.

I also have no idea what a service for a 1966 watch could cost.
Any ballpark on that, to possibly help me decide whether to keep or return?
 
wilderbeast
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Where are you based? I’d factor in around £200-300, which is roughly what I’m paying to have my 1970 C case serviced here in London.
 
mydeafcat
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By all means return it - to me! I'm jonesing rather badly for an SS C-case similar to this one. 😁

Seriously though: besides not sending it to me, ensure you do not send it to Omega, either.
 
V
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wilderbeast wilderbeast
Where are you based? I’d factor in around £200-300, which is roughly what I’m paying to have my 1970 C case serviced here in London.
American, living in Germany.

Bought this for 650 Euros very spontaneously, of course with no thought about servicing.

In the name of total transparency, I have been mainly collecting Seikos up till now, with a preference for vintage, when I spotted the Constellation and was instantly dazzled. 😉
Edited:
 
wilderbeast
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I’m sure there are German members here who could recommend someone, though whereabouts you are in Germany will help. @JimJupiter?
 
wilderbeast
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I can’t see the dial in much detail in your photo, but I think you probably paid a fair price. These C-case Connie seem to be gaining some real appreciation at the moment. And I can’t wait to get mine back, as it went off for service without being worn!
 
V
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wilderbeast wilderbeast
I can’t see the dial in much detail in your photo, but I think you probably paid a fair price. These C-case Connie seem to be gaining some real appreciation at the moment. And I can’t wait to get mine back, as it went off for service without being worn!
The dial is very nice, that's what attracted me to the watch.
I'm generally pretty fussy about condition, as a rule.
Of course, macro photos are merciless.
IMG_20200109_123237.jpg
 
V
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wilderbeast wilderbeast
A beauty! Good luck with the service and wear it in good health!
Many thanks for your help.
I take it you would recommend having it serviced, rather than sending it back?
 
KingCrouchy
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Honestly this Connie looks good, I would keep it and let it be serviced by a Watchmaker that knows vintage Pieces.👍
 
V
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KingCrouchy KingCrouchy
Honestly this Connie looks good, I would keep it and let it be serviced by a Watchmaker that knows vintage Pieces.👍
Thanks for your opinion . . . I'd have to see if I could find someone fitting that description. 😉
 
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