Sorry to bother you guys with this message. This is my first post and also first time to seriously consider an Omega Constellation. Has read a lot of excellent posts here and learned a lot from everyone. Thanks a lot! Recently, I came across with an Omega Constellation watch (case Ref 168.029 and caliber 751) and seems to be in a very good condition. The owner sent me a few photos of this watch (I attached below). Here are my impressions and hope to get your expert opinions: (1). Just judging by the pictures, the biggest concern I had is the missing of gib of the rotor (please see the attached pictures). I circled the missing part with the red circle. From my limited knowledge, this should be a quick and easy fix by a good omega watchmaker, right? The owner said that the watch keeps good time. But, if the gib of the rotor is missing, is it possible for the rotor to functional well without falling off? (2). The serial number on the movement, the movement type and the case back seems to match with the online information about Omega Constellation manufactured on that period. (3). The dial and hands seem to be well matched (lumes, styple et al). The fonts are reasonable. (4). To be honest, I am surprised by the excellent condition of the dial and the case. However, my inexperienced eyes can not tell whether there are refurnished or polished. If there are, it seems to be a good job. Based on the missing gib of the rotor as I mentioned in my first point, it makes me think more that this watch has been serviced and overhauled. Based on these information, Is it a reasonable watch to consider? Is it worth purchasing for a quick fix? If yes, a price of $700~$800 a proper price? Thanks a lot for your suggestions and comments!
It looked very nice at first sight. Then I noticed it doesn’t seem to pass the MOY test. Most Constellations should pass this test to the best of my knowledge. The text at the top doesn’t match with other Constellation watches that I know to be original. Are you familiar with the “MOY test”?
Some more info on MOY here: http://omega-constellation-collecto...ts-all-about-moy-except-when-it-isnt.html?m=1
Thanks a lot! I am a newbie and this information is super helpful! I am reading the material of MOY that you shared with me. Thanks again!
Is it the same watch? https://www.reddit.com/r/Watchexcha...rare/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share https://watchcharts.com/listing/246...29-rare-double-signed-meister-linen-snowflake
According to Reddit, the watch was sold, so either the new owner only has it for a few weeks and is taking a huge blow, either it wasn't sold after all.
You are right. With more info discovered. this watch becomes more "interesting". My guess is that the owner is the one who was selling that watch. From the image of the movement on watchchart.com, the gib of the rotor is there on the picture. I am guessing that it might be due to the lighting of the picture he sent me, it appears to disappear. I should ask him about the watchchart.com post. Thanks again!
Beyond my knowledge for sure. Some watches (same case back model) on chrono24 seem to have this kind of circular brushing as well. Vintage omega do have so many interesting things. Just a detective work, . Thanks a lot for your help as well!
I read the article as well as the other article from the same blogger, he seems to suggest that, some models of the late 60's might fail MOY test and also the style of the "Constellation" also changed at that peroid (http://www.mediafire.com/file/t91sqtks2ezgm5g/Calibre 751 Omega Constellation Models.pdf). Thank you for sharing the information with me.
This might be a nice reference gallery. This watch was checked by fellow OF members. https://omegaforums.net/threads/new-member-new-constellation-c-168-029.1088/ Seems the printing looks different and this one passes the MOY test?
Terrific! The watch in that post matches the most of descriptions of the authentic Constellation with C-shape. I think that the one I am considering is far more risky and controversial. Thanks for so many wonderful input!
Yes, I think so. Thank you and Bauhaus for terrific and fast response. It is an interesting detective work and I enjoy the process.
The gib for the rotor is not missing. It is polished steel, and although doesn't rise to the level of "black polish" that is the effect you are seeing in the photo.
Thanks for the tips, Archer! Very useful! Quick question: do you think that, for a Constellation of that year (1969), the text on the dial should still pass the MOY test since a few online discussions have mentioned that, in late 1960's, Omega was changing the style? Thanks again!