Looking for Advice

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Novice here! Looking for advice on purchasing a vintage Omega for my husband. In reading through the forums, I've gleaned that although you pay a premium to go through a dealer (specifically, OmegaEnthusiast), it can be worth it for the non-collector/novices who are purchasing a one-off gift and want to ensure authenticity and trustworthiness. Am I right in making this deduction?

I'm looking at a couple options-- mostly based on the styles I think my husband would love! The 1963 Seamaster Deville, 1966 Omega Constellation, 1963 Seamster 30, and 1969 Omega Geneve Gold are all options that stuck out to me. I will attach photos in this order- any and all feedback is welcome! Thank you so much!

 
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What country are you in?

These are all super common references and you can get a good one from forum members for a much better price, as long as you don't have huge import duties or VAT. I just sold a bunch of watches that would have been perfect for you for a fraction of the price you would pay to that dealer. It's true that he sells good watches, but I still think there's no reason to pay 2x or 3x the fair market value.
 
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Welcome! My advice is to look through the first 2 or 3 pages of the watches offered here in the private seller section. These will be fairly and accurately described, and fairly priced.

If you want to go through a dealer, yes you will pay a premium, but you may also gain peace of mind. The main thing to be gained by purchasing through a watchmaker is a mechanical function guarantee. So you might look around locally for that.

Of the watches you posted, I have to say the Seamaster 30 is an incredible watch, generally. Just my opinion. Of course that style of Constellation is very valuable, and a great watch.

Good luck!
 
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We’re, generally, all collectors and some of us have a few.

Like any enthusiasts, we have different opinions so, these are mine.

First, you need to focus on which type of watch you think your husband will wear. Gold or gold capped/plated tend to look a little dated nowadays. Stainless steel, IMO, is wearable with a suit or with jeans and that’s my first suggestion.

The Omega Geneve is lovely but Geneves are, generally, not much sought after. They’re generally a little cheaper and are sometimes referred to as 'entry level', although they share the same movements as seamasters.

I find the pie pan dial of the Constellation you show a little old fashioned and, dare I say it, a little contrived for this day and age.

I like the other two but it’s not really what I like. You’ll have to narrow down your choices and share with us your planned budget
 
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Welcome @kaa249
It is a very nice gesture you plan for your other half but there is no need to pay through the nose for your gift.

The Constellation is a decent looking watch but it is also the best part of $2000 more than you need to pay.

There is a nice dome dial dogleg Constellation in private sales for €1250.
 
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Hello, first of all I hope you’re doing great! As a relatively new watch colector I’ve learned that some times it’s better to ask the pros here at OF and that some times it’s posible to make mistakes.

Having said that, with some thorough research and willingness, you can find great deals on vintage omegas. Generally speaking, the models you presented are quite common, and can be readily found in good condition for much better prices.

Vintage omegas are quite sturdy and abundant, so you shouldn’t have any truble finding good examples for a reasonable price.

Do take a look on what’s being offered here, for I have seen quite good deals from very knowledgeable and trustworthy individuals. Much of lucks, the world (we watch nerds) sure need more partners like you!!