Omega 200 banana

nonuffinkbloke · Jul 21, 2017

Fair enough Baz. You seem quite Happy using Mark at Willes and that's good that you have confidence in his ability. Do Willes have access to any parts that may be required?

I've had a good look around at most of the watch shops along the Dorset and Hampshire coast. Some of them we're helpful, but when it comes to servicing my old Omega Speedmaster, I would only take it to Simon Freese or STS in Essex.

The main reason I took it there is because that's what the Omega experts on this forum advised.

I'm pleased I took their advice. They were right. It cost a lot more than £120, but then it included complete dismantling, vintage correct parts, ultra-sonic cleaning of the case and bracelet, polishing of the original crystal, 48 hour testing and a long guarantee.

Anyway you have a lovely old watch (lovely, sharp colour contrasts) and I hope it goes well. Be nice to see it after it's been done. Maybe you could get Mark to photograph the movement so you could post some pictures on the forum???
Cheers.👍
Jonathan.

Bazzer · Jul 23, 2017

nonuffinkbloke
Hello Bazzer... yeah I'm only up the road. I live and work around Poole Harbour. There is a vintage watch shop in Dorchester although I haven't been in there as yet. There is also a very nice, high quality, watch shop in Bournemouth who deal with STS in Southend. The shop is Michael Matthews.They are in Westover Road. Just off of The Square where they have the big balloon ride.

These shops are all very well, but you have a lovely old watch mate. I think the fact that we live within driving distance of Swiss Time Services and Simon Freese Watchmakers should be a big factor in deciding where to take your watch. I agree with the earlier advice from @jimmyd13 and @Nathan1967 . The question shouldn't be "Where should you take it?" It should be: What would prevent you from taking it or sending it to either STS or Simon Freese?

Simon used to work at STS but is now independent. When it comes to vintage Omega watches, he's the 'top banana''! Give him a call. I've met him twice and on both occasions he gave me great advice regarding my vintage Speedmaster. He's a helpful bloke and his advice and skill are highly regarded by a number of experts and collectors on this forum.👍

A35, M27, M3, M25, A12 and up a few country lanes. 185 miles from you. You could make a day of it with a ride around London.😀

P.S. I don't like the sound of that "find a local shop" advice. It aint a new watch in need of a battery change. Be a bit careful regarding 'so called' vintage watch specialist shops along the Dorset and Hampshire coast. I've had some suggest that my Dad's 1965 'brown dial' Omega Speedmaster is "not worth much money". One of them looked at it and said "Hmmm... I would give you...maybe £800".

Oh and for 'fakks sake' don't send it to Omega Baz!😲 .... not unless you want a different watch back with half of your vintage parts in a bin somewhere!😁
Kind regards.
Jonathan.

Hi mate, have just taken back of omega and it is mint as is the rubber seal, also etched inside case back is service date 1990. Apparently he had it serviced but died before he could wear it which would explain the cocooned cleanest of the works.

lillatroll · Jul 23, 2017

There are a few watchmakers you can find. StS or Simon Freese, as mentioned. Watchguy UK if you are lucky enough to get a slot. I send my watches to Stefan who is a member of this forum. I am sure you are aware of this, but even if it looks clean, the oils will be dryer than the goby desert and wearing it before getting it looked at will probably not end well.

Omega 200 banana

nonuffinkbloke

Bazzer

lillatroll

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