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Omega Seamaster 168.024

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Hi guys, I'm new here and need some advice. I'm wanting to buy a vintage Omega Seamaster 168.024 with a BOR bracelet. I love the design and the history of the movement and want it for daily use and not for a collection. I have a few questions I was hoping you guys could help me with.

1. Am I better off purchasing one in mint condition, or one in need of restoration and send it to Omega to complete it.
2. What should I expect from one in mint condition? i.e condition of dial, case, bracelet, and will it still keep chronometer standards. What should I expect to pay?
3. If I were to get it restored by Omega, what should I expect?, does anyone have any examples of one's that have been restored and how much should I expect to pay.

Thanks in advance!
 
Passover
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Welcome on the Forum!

Good idea going for a 168.024 😉

The watch is not so common but I think there are enough examples out there, esp. in Japan.

For a daily wearer you should find a very good, original one which only needs a service. Don't buy a restoration project.

The three you posted all have issues, one is redialed.

Check also ebay esp. sellers from Japan like closer0924

If you find a nice one without BOR buy it, you can find a BOR later

Good luck!
 
zwjk
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1. I don’t think you need to purchase a mint one. I always prefer to buy a good and honest condition example that I would not be afraid of wearing. I definitely don’t recommend buying a project watch as the restoration costs might outstrip the cost of purchasing a good example in the first place.

2. I always value the dial then the case. The dial has to be in excellent condition as this is what you will always have your eyes on. The case is another important piece of the puzzle so ensure it is not overpolished.

Having the correct movement is also important, but I wouldn’t worry about time keeping on a vintage watch purchase. Always factor in servicing costs when buying a vintage watch.

3. Search ‘Omega Bienne restoration’ on Google and it will give you an idea of an Omega factory restoration. It’s not cheap and more often than not you will lose value on the watch, as most original parts are replaced (because they need to warrant it).

Sorry I can’t help with values etc. as I’m not familiar with these.

All the best in your hunt!
 
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Thanks Passover for your response and I'm probably stretching the friendship here but would any of the following be worth looking at. I checked eBay with buyer you recommended but they don't have anything.

https://www.chrono24.com.au/omega/o...eter-automatic-w-bor-bracelet--id15534804.htm

https://www.chrono24.com.au/omega/---id17404262.htm

https://www.chrono24.com.au/omega/---id17145180.htm

https://www.chrono24.com.au/omega/---id17145180.htm

If I'm pushing it, let me know I'll stop
 
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Thanks for the heads up on searching ‘Omega Bienne restoration’ on Google, really interesting to see the end finishes on some of those watches. It really has me leaning towards getting one done.
 
Dimitris
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Most of the times the watches listed in chrono 24 are either overpriced or in bad condition some with redials etc. try visiting the OF private sales section you will find some nice watches ocassionally seamasters appear, you will get ripped off if you buy a project watch wihout any knowledge in what you are doing .
 
SkunkPrince
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You might also look at a 166.010. Those aren't chronometers but a good watchmaker can adjust it to those specs.
 
Spruce
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Yes, 166.010 is a good looking classic watch, particularly in stainless steel. IMHO
 
masteroftime
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I also second the 166.010 and I would stay that Chrono24 is a bad gauge on appropriate pricing. You want a nice honest example that you won't feel bad wearing and the difference between the 168.024 and the 166.010 is minimal. Both have the same case, but "different" movements. If you don't know, the cal 564 and cal 565 are practically the same movement, but one was chronometer certified when it was produced. This leads to a premium, but after 50+ years it may not matter and it being not abused and serviced is most important in my mind.
 
Spruce
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And, nowadays, if you need such accuracy there are many non-watch options (please excuse the heresy).

The Omega 565 is not only an excellent movement but also comparatively inexpensive and easy to service.
 
Wlcutter
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Agreed on all of this--the 168.024 is what I'd consider a flawless watch.

As noted, the 166.010 has the same case, and every Omega 5XX movement I've had, once serviced, ran COSC. I'd note, too, that, unless I'm missing something, the 14744 (below left) has the same case as the 166.010/168.024, and has the (arguably cooler) old Seamaster coat-hanger S.

IMG_5024.jpg
 
masteroftime
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@Wlcutter Also, a great reccommendation. I assume the 14744 likely has a 562? I believe I have the precursor ref 2975 with a cal 500. Also, I love that "Oyster" style strap. is it OEM?

Screen Shot 2020-12-14 at 6.54.10 PM.png
 
Wlcutter
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masteroftime masteroftime
@Wlcutter Also, a great reccommendation. I assume the 14744 likely has a 562? I believe I have the precursor ref 2975 with a cal 500. Also, I love that "Oyster" style strap. is it OEM?

Screen Shot 2020-12-14 at 6.54.10 PM.png

Yeah, 14744s are pretty incredible; they're powered by 503s.

The bracelet's an Omega 1168/605; I don't know the model it was made for but I've found nothing better for the 168.024.
 
SkunkPrince
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Wlcutter Wlcutter
Yeah, 14744s are pretty incredible; they're powered by 503s.

The bracelet's an Omega 1168/605; I don't know the model it was made for but I've found nothing better for the 168.024.

138.0070 is one...
 
181899_04_full.jpg
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Wlcutter Wlcutter
Agreed on all of this--the 168.024 is what I'd consider a flawless watch.

As noted, the 166.010 has the same case, and every Omega 5XX movement I've had, once serviced, ran COSC. I'd note, too, that, unless I'm missing something, the 14744 (below left) has the same case as the 166.010/168.024, and has the (arguably cooler) old Seamaster coat-hanger S.

IMG_5024.jpg
What strap is the one on the right? It looks great! Wondering if I can get one for myself.
 
Wlcutter
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F fizuks
What strap is the one on the right? It looks great! Wondering if I can get one for myself.

If you mean the bracelet from the picture I posted of the two seamasters: it's an Omega 1168/605.
 
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