Just got this watch from inheritance

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Eric Popper

·Jun 15, 2022

I just got this Omega from my father's estate. Very cool looking watch. I know the band is not original.

Questions:

1) I would like to get it restored and cleaned up the best it can be done. I don't know much about vintage watches and my question is does restoring it from the original condition have any detrimental effect on the value (like a survivor car?)?

2) What kind of watch is it? I tried Chrono24 but it doesn't come up with the exact match?

Thanks!

Eric

 

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Dan S

·Jun 15, 2022

In general, this is a fairly uncommon and desirable watch.

This style is called a triple-date moonphase (TDM). The reference for this particular model will be inside the caseback, it may be ref. 2486 based on the shape of the lugs. So you can search for Omega 2486 or Omega triple date moonphase, or Omega Cosmic triple date moonphase, etc., to find similar examples.

The dials on these Omega TDMs are almost always repainted, presumably because the originals became damaged. A repainted dial dramatically reduces the value, even more than a modestly damaged dial like yours. Collectors prize originality, so go slowly with any restoration.

 

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gatorcpa

·Jun 15, 2022·ΩF InvestiGator

You may want to watch this video:

Also, please get rid of that Twist-o-Flex bracelet. They were the height of technology in the 1950’s, but over time, the “one size fits all” endpieces will gouge out the holes in the lugs and scratch them up. A leather band will do nicely for now.

You will likely need a watchmaker familiar with the extra complications of the triple date. Whatever you do:

1. Do not polish the case, outside of a wipe with a microfiber glasses cloth.

2. Do not let anyone restore, clean or otherwise molest the dial. That’s the money here.

Hope this helps,
gatorcpa

 

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SkunkPrince

·Jun 15, 2022

gatorcpa

Also, please get rid of that Twist-o-Flex bracelet. They were the height of technology in the 1950’s, but over time, the “one size fits all” endpieces will gouge out the holes in the lugs and scratch them up. A nice leather band will do nicely for now.

The bracelet he has is cut to fit, not sprung. Those can still cause wear if the ends weren't finished well and it wasn't occasionally removed and cleaned.

 

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Larry S

·Jun 15, 2022·Color Commentator for the Hyperbole.

If you give us your general location the members here can help steer you to a watchmaker who understands vintage.

 

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watchyouwant

·Jun 15, 2022

Dial looks good. Don't touch it. Mvmt. Service and that's it! Great heirloom.

 

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Davidt

·Jun 15, 2022

That’s a beautiful and desirable watch.

The advice above about cleaning not polishing the case and leaving the dial as-is is spot on.

Id also advise taking your time before jumping into anything. You can always get it serviced next month or the month after but any serious mistakes may be hard to undo. That said, wear it minimally until serviced.

Consider doing research on both this particular mode and also vintage watch restoration in general before committing to anything.

 

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Shabbaz

·Jun 15, 2022

Beauty

 

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Widows Son

·Jun 15, 2022

Very nice, I think you should send it to me immediately!!!

 

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Eric Popper

·Jun 15, 2022

Thanks for all of the information and advice. The band is one of those twist and flex and I have no idea when it was put on.

There are some marks on the dial at the 8, 9, and 11 o'clock positions that I hope aren't damage.

Will research and move forward from there and keep everyone up to date.

Eric

Edited: Jun 15, 2022

 

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gatorcpa

·Jun 15, 2022·ΩF InvestiGator

E Eric Popper

There are some marks on the dial at the 8, 9, and 11 o'clock positions that I hope aren't damage.

I’m afraid that those portions are stained and cannot be safely cleaned.

But your dial is probably better than 90% of examples out there, maybe more.
gatorcpa

 

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rob#1

·Jun 16, 2022

Wonderful, very cool watch, treat it nicely

 

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Redondo444

·Jun 16, 2022

Very nice watch and somewhat rare when it comes being a 2486 in steel.

Here a pic of my 2486 - same style of dial but in rosegold which I am wearing right now.
And don't mind on the patina - it is adding some character to the watch.
I would recommend to get a nice leather 18/14mm strap (doesn't need to be omega - lizzard leather matches perfect) and watch out for a matching omega buckle from that period.

It will give u lots of joy and the 2486 are very good to wear with a good size (from my pov perfect) for smaller wrists up to 17.5cm.

Edited: Jun 16, 2022

 

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ALEJANDRO BOVONE

·Jun 16, 2022

so undervalued imo, it s a fairly large size moonphase steel omega from the 1950s! take good care of it

 

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Eric Popper

·Jun 16, 2022

I'm in the Chicago area. Any suggestions on shops to inspect and repair it (properly)?

Eric