Learn How To Fish

L LTSmash1200

Hi, I'm new here, first post. I'm planning on buying my first vintage Omega (either a Constellation or a Seamaster) to wear at my wedding next year. For right now I'm trying to learn as much as I can about them. One thing that has me a little confused is how to make sure the reference numbers match the movement and dial.

I know about this: http://www.old-omegas.com/omrefcod.html, but as far as I can tell, this only tells you what TYPE of movement should be in a watch, not which caliber it should be and I have no idea how to tell what dial would go with it. So I can be confident knowing, this case should have a chronometer grade movement, but how do I know WHICH chronometer movement should be in it? Also, I have noticed some don't match this convention at all, like the ref: 14381 Constellation, which according to the normal code rules, would be a men's, manual winding chronograph, non water resistant chronometer, but this came with an automatic 551 movement. I have tried to use the vintage section on the Omega website, but I've found it pretty hit or miss. I don't think I know how to use it correctly.

Thanks in advance.

jaspers

For starting collectors threads like this are incredibly helpful. Thank you. I'm relatively new here, but you guys already have been quite helpful in assessing a 145.022 Speedmaster I considered buying-- of which I now am the happy owner!

The vintage Omega virus has bitten me, and I've stared looking out for a 1960s steel Seamaster Deville caliber 562 or 563. They're around in abundance with white dials, but I'm looking for a black crosshairs dial. From what I gather so far, there are a lot of DeVilles with re-painted black dials. Are there any telltale signs for black repainting? The examples you mentioned in this thread all concern white dials.

Thanks!