Old Timer Omega Repair Specialist - damage & Replacement CROWN question

svs · Dec 18, 2021

Hello. I'm new here. So sorry if this has been discussed ad nauseam.

In the 90s I used to go to the old timers in the San Francisco flood building to repair my Omega. These guys were recommended to me by my friends mother whose parents owned a jewelry store there back in the day. I'm alluding that these were old time watch repairmen (survivors from WW2 europe). I believe that at this point they are no longer.

So I brought my watch to a popular repair place that others have brought their high end watches on the forums ~ someplace in the south bay. GAH! First off I have a rub spot on the face where i) there was no spot before, it was perfect-- my mother's gold watch that she wore every day since I was 9. ii) the spot is there because some attempt to rub a blemish out occurred. GOSH damn I'm pissed. It was a very slim 14K gold Omega from 1976? with a custom 14K ladder bracelet.

PLUS the reason why the watch was taken in was because I hadn't worn it in decades and the crown went missing.

So - my question is...the repairman insisted it was the right crown that was replaced BUT I never knew that crown to be sharp and pointy so much that it jambs the front of my hand severely. It's too long and sharp. WTF. The original was more flat and rounded in my memory --- no way skinny, long, and sharp af.
QUESTION IS - wtf is up with that crown? I saw the replacement package. Really? B.S.

Now - how do u guys prevent un necessary repair? I mean, did I need a complete overhaul because I was missing a crown? Is dust inevitable no matter how hermetically sealed your storage box is? And how does one know your watch isnt being stripped of genuine vintage parts for inferior modern omega ones? .... and are newer modern Omega parts inferior?
GAH I'm so unhappy.... I've never seen a crown that long, skinny, and so sharp on a watch like mine.

Do watch repair places like this (with apparent good reviews from high end watch owners) swap out good vintage parts with modern Franken or newer inferior omega parts? Who knows what for --- for a black market of higher end collector vintage watches?

Who can make this right in the SF bay area or anywhere? Anyone know a meticulous A retentive watch master?

----- Skeptical & Unhappy

SkunkPrince · Dec 18, 2021

Pics or it never happened. Also need the case number, on the inside of the caseback.

Can't really speculate on the crown except to look up what it looked like in the catalog, if a picture exists, or whether other examples can be found. With any luck, it's a common one we've all seen and half of us own.

svs · Dec 18, 2021

SkunkPrince
Pics or it never happened. Also need the case number, on the inside of the caseback.

Can't really speculate on the crown except to look up what it looked like in the catalog, if a picture exists, or whether other examples can be found. With any luck, it's a common one we've all seen and half of us own.

Hi. I was editing my post before seeing your reply. Darn. I drew a pic of the numbers inside years ago. Maybe I can call and get the numbers. (Dont want to open it up after it just got back from the shop). I'll snap a pic right now.

sleepyastronaut · Dec 18, 2021

S svs
QUESTION IS - wtf is up with that crown? I saw the replacement package. Really? B.S.

Omega no longer makes a lot of the original crowns. If you want to have the crown replaced with an authentic Omega part, you get what Omega sells the watchmaker. You should really take this up with Omega, the Omega official watchmakers can only install what Omega sells them.

S svs
Now - how do u guys prevent un necessary repair?

Repeat after me:
"Please service the watch and replace the seals. Please do not touch the dial. Please do not polish the case. Please return any parts replaced." Make this your mantra.

S svs
I mean, did I need a complete overhaul because I was missing a crown?

It depends on the watchmaker. You can ask them this very question. Some watchmakers do not perform partial service.

S svs
Is dust inevitable no matter how hermetically sealed your storage box is?

You'll likely get dust in any watch missing a crown.

S svs
And how does one know your watch isnt being stripped of genuine vintage parts for inferior modern omega ones?

"Please service the watch and replace the seals. Please do not touch the dial. Please do not polish the case. Please return any parts replaced."

S svs
.... and are newer modern Omega parts inferior?

Inferior in terms of water or dust resistance? No
Inferior in terms or originality? Possibly, depends on the part.

S svs
GAH I'm so unhappy.... I've never seen a crown that long, skinny, and so sharp on a watch like mine.

Click 'Add Photos' below the post window to insert an image.

S svs
Do watch repair places like this (with apparent good reviews from high end watch owners) swap out good vintage parts with modern Franken or newer inferior omega parts?

Not sure what you mean by repair places like this. Not sure you're using the word Franken correctly, as I've never heard of a single part itself being Franken.

S svs
Who knows what for --- for a black market of higher end collector vintage watches?

I thought your crown was missing... how are they going to sell a crown that wasn't there in the first place?

S svs
Who can make this right in the SF bay area or anywhere? Anyone know a meticulous A retentive watch master?

I'm sure members can point you to a meticulous watchmaker in SF, but first you need to check your attitude. No one is going to give you a recommendation at the risk of you flying off on a rant like this in their shop.

Take a chill pill.

Take a deep breath.

Calm down.

Then think before you type again.

Best wishes!

svs · Dec 18, 2021

I guess I'll just

S svs
Hi. I was editing my post before seeing your reply. Darn. I drew a pic of the numbers inside years ago. Maybe I can call and get the numbers. (Dont want to open it up after it just got back from the shop). I'll snap a pic right now.

Well - there is a long light streak underneath the 9 baton thing marker and another in between and to the right of the 9 and 10 bar. The crown is really sharp, strangely long, not at all like the original, and disproportionate. This is not a collector edition something or other Omega. This is a sentimental custom-done precious metal Omega from a long departed loved one. So - it was cherished and cared for to avoid any man-made servicing patina. Patina be damned, no matter how much value it brings for "collector items," which this is not.

sleepyastronaut · Dec 18, 2021

S svs
there is a long light streak underneath the 9 baton

FYI, these are generally referred to as an index, plural indeces.

Pic is somewhat low resolution, so it's hard to tell what's going on. If I had to guess, I would say the index at 9 fell off, and somebody attempted to reattach it by putting glue under the index and pressing it on to the dial. The glue spread out and was clumsily spread around. Many years ago a had a Skagen that looked like this when it came back from the watchmaker. I never went back to him. (I know. I know.)

S svs
The crown is really sharp, strangely long, not at all like the original, and disproportionate.

IMHO, the crown doesn't look that bad, but that doesn't stop it from gouging your wrist. You have a couple options in terms of replacing it. An aftermarket crown might give you the shape and size you're looking for, but aftermarket parts are generally a last resort. The best option might be to source a donor watch that has the correct, original crown, and swap it in. If you're going this route, I suggest you find a non-runner with the same dial, in good condition, so that you can replace both the crown and dial.

Fortunately, vintage ladies' watches are not extremely expensive. Provided you can find the same one, say, on eBay, you should be able to get it at a reasonable price.

I hope this helps!

svs · Dec 18, 2021

Thanks. I understand.

Those "indices" can fall off? Hmm... Everything was intact prior to the service (I suppose they can fall off when tinkering about the watchface)

<expletive> still pissed (((the guy above said check my girl attitude - ok "SIR")

This was a watch my mother wore, but it is a larger men's watch. Yes - I understand we live in a disposable society, but still --- sentimental value watch... I W O U L D be interested in a new face, though.

QUESTION:

Why is it that the watch guys assume ...... They should A S K
1) Are you someone that requires your watch to MAINTAIN its ORIGINAL - - - - P A T I N A?
2) Are you an original - - - all original watch - - - not original watchmaker brand - - - person?
3) Are you aware that with COLLECTORS - - - that certain COLLECTIBLE watches - - - are more valuable in their ORIGINAL condition?
4) If not (you don't have a collector item, don't mind vintage replacement parts - - - same maker) --- then yes, we can source the parts for you.

WHY do these guys I N S I S T that you live with the eff up every time you look at the face of your watch?

Do I have too much chick hysteria? These guys need to be told (and thank you to the guy who posted the Mantra - - - I printed it out)

Davidt · Dec 18, 2021

What on earth are you talking about?

I’ve tried twice to read this thread and still have no idea what your actual question or point is.
My head started hurting the second time due to the way you insist on spelling out random words with spaces and capitals. It gives the impression you’re shouting so I’ll leave it there.

Best of luck with whatever it is you want help with.

Dan S · Dec 18, 2021

Davidt
What on earth are you talking about?

I’ve tried twice to read this thread and still have no idea what your actual question or point is.
My head started hurting the second time due to the way you insist on spelling out random words with spaces and capitals. It gives the impression you’re shouting so I’ll leave it there.

Best of luck with whatever it is you want help with.

I think he joined to let off some steam.

svs · Dec 18, 2021

Davidt
What on earth are you talking about?

I’ve tried twice to read this thread and still have no idea what your actual question or point is.
My head started hurting the second time due to the way you insist on spelling out random words with spaces and capitals. It gives the impression you’re shouting so I’ll leave it there.

Best of luck with whatever it is you want help with.

I didn't join this forum to get bashed. I don't know what's going on in anyones personal life to assume why they like to bash or gaslight - "I have no idea what your actual question is -"

My question is - why would anyone think highly of W !@$%D time in the south bay (santa clara) ? In my opinion I received my watch back in sloppy condition - the face is soiled, the back has a scratch on it and the crown is horrendous.

I asked - just to reiterate what I asked - is who can right this abominable wrong? ... who knows of a good watch repair shop? and why would anyone go to that place in the south bay?

TexOmega · Dec 18, 2021

Tip well to whomever you choose , they will have earned it. Good luck

Dan S · Dec 18, 2021

S svs
... who knows of a good watch repair shop? and why would anyone go to that place in the south bay?

svs · Dec 18, 2021

Dan S
The second question seems rhetorical, but some previous threads may help address the first question. You can just ignore any recommendations for the shop you don't like.

https://omegaforums.net/threads/vintage-watch-repair-in-northern-california-bay-area.78600/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/watchmaker-in-san-francisco.59278/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/vintage-omega-repair-in-or-near-san-francisco.4437/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/3590-50-service-in-san-francisco.55809/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/watchco-sm300-trusted-repair-recommendations.84787/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/san-francisco-san-jose-omega-watch-repair-and-service.48650/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/repair-in-san-francisco-bay-area.21748/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/reputable-omega-repair-shops-in-san-francisco.96063/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/yintage-chronograph-service-in-sf-bay-or-beyond.133896/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/estimated-cost-to-restore-my-dads-deville.39896/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/my-vintage-1964-omega-seamaster-de-ville.101123/
https://omegaforums.net/threads/ind...f-bay-area-my-ed-white-needs-some-love.40946/

svs · Dec 18, 2021

Thank you for the links. That is very helpful.

Dan S
I think he joined to let off some steam.

What a D'e - - - I reread my thread and easily comprehended the question: Why do watch repair shops assume that you do or don't want something, and or not listen when you do say what you want? The person who shared the Mantra with me - - - that was VERY helpful, as was the person who shared the web links. Thank you. You are people who "get it," - Much thanks. .... but to the D'e who had to gaslight? What a D. Sad human.

Dan S · Dec 18, 2021

S svs
What a D'e - - - I reread my thread and easily comprehended the question: Why do watch repair shops assume that you do or don't want something, and or not listen when you do say what you want? The person who shared the Mantra with me - - - that was VERY helpful, as was the person who shared the web links. Thank you. You are people who "get it," - Much thanks. .... but to the D'e who had to gaslight? What a D. Sad human.

I'm not sure whether I'm in the "people who 'get it'" category or the douche category, but "Why do watch repair shops assume that you do or don't want something, and or not listen when you do say what you want?" are obviously not real questions that people can answer. They are just complaints in the form of questions, or "letting off steam" as I mentioned previously.

There's nothing wrong with venting some steam, but insulting long-time OF members isn't productive. When the tantrum is over, maybe we can help you.

SkunkPrince · Dec 18, 2021

You have one other alternative, and that it to send it to Omega factory service in Bienne.

They will restore the watch as new, refinish the dial as new, and if there is a better crown, they will use it. You will pay more than $1000 for this.

Most of us at one time have had a watchmaker do something stupid. I had one buff a stainless steel case so much that there wasn't a lot left of it. Some will do the minimum on a vintage piece, others will try to make it look new. You really have to ask first.

svs · Dec 18, 2021

Dan S
I'm not sure whether I'm in the "people who 'get it'" category or the douche category, but "Why do watch repair shops assume that you do or don't want something, and or not listen when you do say what you want?" are obviously not real questions that people can answer. They are just complaints in the form of questions, or "letting off steam" as I mentioned previously.

There's nothing wrong with venting some steam, but insulting long-time OF members isn't productive. When the tantrum is over, maybe we can help you.

Who are the longtime OF members? Dave the gas lighter? Here's a question - - if anyone here is such a longtime member, does anyone remember any of the oldtime watch repair guys from the Flood Building? (

SkunkPrince
You have one other alternative, and that it to send it to Omega factory service in Bienne.

They will restore the watch as new, refinish the dial as new, and if there is a better crown, they will use it. You will pay more than $1000 for this.

Most of us at one time have had a watchmaker do something stupid. I had one buff a stainless steel case so much that there wasn't a lot left of it. Some will do the minimum on a vintage piece, others will try to make it look new. You really have to ask first.

svs · Dec 18, 2021

Hello Bienne -

Due to sentimentality, $1,000 is warranted. I greatly appreciate your thoughtful reply - - it was one of actual value. Not sure if there are any Panerai fans here, but I hear their service is $1,000, which is what I would have to pay to get that one serviced - - as well as my Rolex - - - hopefully there are more repair folk for that around these parts. So, I think that the watch guys and people in general may size someone up as an aficionado or a newb and may not hear (they really don't - often times no. . . directions and wants are not heard) what they want. I mean, I was presssed really hard to accept the damage... "it looks fine, great," he said - cos what do I know. I'm a philistine.

In this case I really should have emphasized the Mantra (that I was just provided - I t hink it's extremely useful) and add I'm a stickler and add emphasis (but in a cautiously nice way - as to not make anyone mad, like some people here get bent). My watch aesthetic was ruined. I'm not being rude because of some inane t hing someone wrote on a post. Sheez. My watch was defaced. Once again, thank you for posting something of value. I appreciate the mention of Bienne.

SkunkPrince · Dec 18, 2021

Good luck. Remove the bracelet before sending.

ClaudyChase#2 · Dec 6, 2023

S svs
Hello. I'm new here. So sorry if this has been discussed ad nauseam.

In the 90s I used to go to the old timers in the San Francisco flood building to repair my Omega. These guys were recommended to me by my friends mother whose parents owned a jewelry store there back in the day. I'm alluding that these were old time watch repairmen (survivors from WW2 europe). I believe that at this point they are no longer.

So I brought my watch to a popular repair place that others have brought their high end watches on the forums ~ someplace in the south bay. GAH! First off I have a rub spot on the face where i) there was no spot before, it was perfect-- my mother's gold watch that she wore every day since I was 9. ii) the spot is there because some attempt to rub a blemish out occurred. GOSH damn I'm pissed. It was a very slim 14K gold Omega from 1976? with a custom 14K ladder bracelet.

PLUS the reason why the watch was taken in was because I hadn't worn it in decades and the crown went missing.

So - my question is...the repairman insisted it was the right crown that was replaced BUT I never knew that crown to be sharp and pointy so much that it jambs the front of my hand severely. It's too long and sharp. WTF. The original was more flat and rounded in my memory --- no way skinny, long, and sharp af.
QUESTION IS - wtf is up with that crown? I saw the replacement package. Really? B.S.

Now - how do u guys prevent un necessary repair? I mean, did I need a complete overhaul because I was missing a crown? Is dust inevitable no matter how hermetically sealed your storage box is? And how does one know your watch isnt being stripped of genuine vintage parts for inferior modern omega ones? .... and are newer modern Omega parts inferior?
GAH I'm so unhappy.... I've never seen a crown that long, skinny, and so sharp on a watch like mine.

Do watch repair places like this (with apparent good reviews from high end watch owners) swap out good vintage parts with modern Franken or newer inferior omega parts? Who knows what for --- for a black market of higher end collector vintage watches?

Who can make this right in the SF bay area or anywhere? Anyone know a meticulous A retentive watch master?

----- Skeptical & Unhappy

I have returned my x33 gen1 under warranty for a misaligned bezel & insert.
I asked the question,when you serviced the watch in Jan 2023 why didnt you replace the crown with the gen2 crown.
Cant do it they said!,why I asked,it will change the watch to something it isnt they said!!!.I said Omega updated the crown as it was improved and better for purpose.Rather like a car having a defective part and is re-called to fix the issue,doesnt mean its a different car,I did say this in my email.
But again this morning after sending an article off this forum about someone in the USA having his x33 gen1 totally updated(minus case back) to a gen2.Sorry what is done in the US is not what we can do here in the UK,its Omegas policy!.So Omega has different views on what they allow in different locations it seems.
I did say that you were happy to replace the polished pushers to the gen2 brushed pushers!,did this not make it a different watch!!!.
Very odd imo.

Old Timer Omega Repair Specialist - damage & Replacement CROWN question

svs

SkunkPrince

svs

sleepyastronaut

svs

sleepyastronaut

svs

Davidt

Dan S

svs

TexOmega

Dan S

svs

svs

Dan S

SkunkPrince

svs

svs

SkunkPrince

ClaudyChase#2

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