I was passed down my grandfather's watch for Christmas this year and have been having some difficulty clearly identifying the year and model. I have been told the model was manufactured in either the late1950s or the early 1960s but as my grandfather died in 1966, no one can produce any other information. The top of the case body is gold platted and the bottom looks like steal. My uncle put a new strap on it but from what I've seen and based on personal opinion, I think the original strap could be of brown leather. If anyone can tell me exactly what model this is, I would really appreciate it.

Also, as I am new to owning a vintage watche, I would appreciate any recommendations on how to care for it, i.e. removing tarnish from case body, polishing the crystal, or how to find a strap closer to the original.

Thanks for any feedback anyone can provide.

 

The most important thing is to get a grease and oil change, preferably done by a watchmaker, not a mechanic.
Over the years the old oils will have dried out leaving nothing to save wear and tear on the jewels and pivots.
After that's done, you can polish the crystal with brasso or polywatch and wipe down the case with a damp cloth and a tiny amount of alcohol.
Choice of a strap is whatever you feel suits you and the watch.
It's a nice little Seamaster, you are a lucky grandson.

 

As to the model and vintage, I'm sitting on the deck at the beach looking at the lagoon and enjoying a colder while using an iPhone so further research will have to wait, but I'm sure others will be able to help.

 

Photos or it doesn't count!

 

Guiness gone, Crownies are the go now.

 

Missing Paris Jim?

 

Omega automatic De Ville probably 1961, ref. 14770 I beleive.
Best.
Mounir

 

Actually, 14770 is the model with date, yours should be 14765 sc.

 

No, not really.

Well, not much

 

Just in the box @JimInOz thought a man of your talent would have built that on the plane. Just back myself and plenty of time on those longer (!) flights back

 

shouldn't you water the lawn instead of yourself? ;-)

 

Thanks for all the help identifying the watch. I am planning on bringing it to a repair shop this weekend so I will update with the model information once the watch back is removed. Could anyone comment on approximately how much a fair price to service and clean this watch would be?

 

donno 300-400 dollars? ... those watches are by no means rare and therefore not too "sexy" for collectors ... and those would most likely only spring for really mint exemplars.

so, don't buy that new car yet ;-)

 

I am not looking to sell it. I meant the cost to have it serviced so that it can continue to function without damaging the movement.

 

ah ... sorry ... probably around 120-150 ...
cheers