Greetings, thanks for accepting my application for membership. I was recently given a box of stuff that was my Dad's. He was a pilot for PanAm in the fifties and sixties. Attached is a photo of a watch he wore as he traveled the world. I'd like some information about it's age, collectability, etc. Obviously it was well "loved". I'm in Pasadena CA and would like to have it cleaned up and get a new strap... recommendations? Thanks in advance. Ken

 

it is a beautiful one

 

Looks great. You might want to take a look at this thread about watch repair in LA:
https://omegaforums.net/threads/trusted-watchmakers-in-los-angeles.79352/

There are a few in Pasadena proper too, but I haven't used any of them so I can't comment.

Standard advice on this forum is to avoid polishing the case, and not to run the watch before it's serviced. If a watchmaker opens it up for you, you can photograph the movement and the inside of the caseback, which will give you a unique serial number and a reference (model) number. These make dating and comparison easier.

Lots of information on constellations can be found on this forum, but the bible is: http://omega-constellation-collectors.blogspot.com/

 

Out of interest. Are you THE Ken Kessler?
Regardless, greetings, and welcome to OF.
Lovely Omega, btw. I am sure the experts will be along shortly...
Best, N.

 

That's a lovely watch. It doesn't need to be "cleaned up" in any way as it's just perfect as is. It only needs servicing by a watchmaker experienced with vintage Omegas and who is sympathetic to its originality.

 

Probably a 354 "bumper" movement under the hood. If you gently rotate the watch with dial facing you do you feel a slight tug?

Nice watch. Like others have mentioned you should get it serviced by an independent watchmaker.
Service implies complete dismantling of the watch, cleaning of the watch movement parts, reassembly, lubrication, adjustment.

 

As regards strap recommendations... a quality black shiny 'gator.

 

I get a "bump, bump, bump..." thanks for the information. The watch runs but gains time ... Ken

 

Thanks.. I don't remember when my Dad didn't have it on his wrist... It just seemed to disappear after he retired in the 70's... Ken

 

I'll take it by Shant's later today and see what they say... Thanks for the information... Ken

 

If you mean the audiophile/horologist.... alas no... but I have a love for all things mechanical. Ken

 

Thanks for the heads up.... I planned to leave the case as is.... the crystal is pretty heavily scratched but serviceable so I'll let it be for now and just wear it as is..... Thanks again... Ken
'

 

Because my Dad wore the watch daily I remember he had a stretch metal band.....easy on easy off... I'll definitely upgrade to a nice leather ban, 'gator sounds good.... I have a rather large wrist so it might be difficult to find... Thanks Ken

 

Thanks! Maybe Shant's here in Pasadena has access to the crown... Or maybe I'll just let it be and enjoy the watch and memories... Ken

 

It’s a stunning watch and even better if associated with a beloved relative.

There’s a sticky thread entitled « watch strap ressources » with tons of recommendations for where to get straps. A shiny alligator would be too shiny IMO but I agree a FLAT matte alligator strap with large scales would look beautiful. Personally I hate padded straps and would find one overbearing on an elegant vintage watch. It would clash.

One question is whether you’re looking for an Omega branded strap.
Other great (and cheaper) options for this watch would include:
- black shell cordovan strap (with thin black stitching). Several members here make cordovan straps.
- black vintage style saffiano strap from Massimiliano aka Glc straps. I like them a lot but must admit I never bought from him. He does get consistently good reviews though.

Regards
S

 

Thanks, Ken

 

Ken,

Welcome. If Shant's doesn't work, LA Watch works is also local in Pasadena and they do great work.

 

One word of advice, in the future have a warning post prior to posting more pictures of this watch. My heart skipped a beat and my loud gasp scared the cat.

WoW

And welcome.

 

Thanks....Ken