Newbie Collector Question

Welcome to OF!

Generally, this might be a very, very good start:

https://omegaforums.net/threads/learn-how-to-fish.52603/

Decoding the reference number of vintage Omegas - to be found on the inside of the case back, by the way - can be done with this chart:



And here’s an example for you:



Note that this doesn’t apply to the 4-digit ref numbers that were still used up to the early 60s, I believe. After the switch to 6-digit reference numbers, usually with a “.” in the middle, this chart does help though. To give you an example, a 168.001 would be:
1=Gent’s watch
6=Self-winding center second
8=water resistant chronometer calendar

So if you found this ref on a watch without a date window, a hand wound one, or see a sub second, something‘s wrong.

But honestly, your biggest friend is google. If you like a watch you found on eBay, for example, simply google the ref. Check if the pictures of examples you find look like the one you’re interested in. Does anything look off? More often than not, when googling “Omega xxx.xxx” (substitute the ref of interest here) you also find the entry in the Omega vintage archive. Check what it says there regarding the caliber it’s supposed to have.

And of course, this place is always a good one for a couple of opinions on originality, condition and value.

You’ll get accustomed to the routine, and also note that there are many exceptions to the rules. It’s a good start nonetheless. A comprehensive list of all possible refs, corresponding movements and serials does not exist, though. Which makes the game a little more exciting. 😀

Sounds like a good attitude. 😀

If you find one that you like, that looks legit to you and passes all the checking and googling you do, feel free to post a couple pictures in the Vintage Omegas area of this forum. Explain your thoughts on it and what you’ve found out already and chances are you’ll get some helpful souls here to help you with an evaluation.

For Constellations google

omega Constellations collectors blogspot


Welcome

http://omega-constellation-collectors.blogspot.com/

Or just click here😁