the buckle is just an aftermarket from china. For the price, I have a formula: Gold mass + 500usd (for the rest). 😀))
Thanks. How do you tell it’s a China aftermarket part?
And how does one figure out the gold mass?
About the buckle, here: https://omegaforums.net/threads/about-omega-buckles.37347/page-61#post-2463301
About the gold mass: You just need to put it on a scale 😀. But I don't think it worth 3200usd IMO.
Ask for case back pics. Google the ref no in case back to get details of this ref. Or just google c case constellation and search in forum. I think there is a thread in this forum showing case weight of c case constellation. If I remember correct it’s 30-35 gms( much higher than the older arguably more desirable constellations) but don’t take my word for it. I researched it a year or 2 ago.
What would you say is a fair price for this piece? Assume it hasn’t been serviced.
Contrary to popular perception, these 18K Constellations are quite rare. Having observed the market for a couple of years, the 18K version pops up barely once per year. So yes, the edges on this particular watch appear soft, but then 18K gold is softer than steel, so it makes sense. While people generaly hunt for sharp bevels on steel cases, I am unsure we can apply the same criteria to these rather rare and soft-case watches. I have the same case in the same condition, bought it because I really like this reference. But it was a decision of the heart, not head 😀
Unfortunately, rarity doesn't always equal valuable.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and long may that last but these references are somewhat 'Marmite' - you either love them, or you don't....
A number of members have them and think they're great but they're are very much in the minority, although I'm quite glad that these ugly-ducklings have found their own band of devotees. ( that's what collecting should be all about)
However, consequently, the market value for these watches is significantly lower than any other contemporary 60s Constellation.
Gold watches are very much 'dress watches' and to bring top-dollar, the condition has to be very good.
This example isn't great - soft case and a number of dings as well.
So, asking $3,200, even in pristine condition, would be very ambitious - in its current condition it is way off target IMHO.
I don’t think I’ve previously seen a 168.015.
When I first saw it on this thread I thought someone had put a Constellation dial into a Geneve 166.041 case.
I think I’ll have to treat my Geneves with more respect 🥸
About the gold mass: You just need to put it on a scale
