On impulse, I made a quick BIN purchase on eBay of what appears to be a very nice original gold capped Constellation pie pan. There were no internal/movement shots available, nor do I know the operational condition of the movement, but felt that the purchase was worth a gamble. I expect to receive the watch next week and will then be able to verify it more closely. Here are several pix that were with the original posting. Any comments and/or further suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks
Poul

 

what amount did you gamble on this one ?

 

The dial is original with cracking aging indicates heat and humid exposure, the hands looks correct already missing its tritium, the crystal need replacement and you need crown and stem at least.
My biggest problem is the case, look corroded outside, might worse inside. When the case is corroded and no movement shot, I assume something wrong with movement. So be prepared for major overhaul.

 

It's had a hard life, this one. Be prepared to have to spend some time and cash on it.

 

Regarding the movement, I am unfortunately prepared for the worst, but hopeful of the best. Based on the images, is it your feeling then that the case and dial are original? I am hoping that the deposits on the exterior of the case are not corrosion, but merely dirt from wear.

 

Hope you didn't spend much on this! Its a good idea to check here before purchase and utilize the expertise available!

 

Ideally checking with the experts is always best. Based on a low price and BIN offering, I felt that any delay would result in a lost opportunity.

 

Looking at the photo no 5 to the right of the lugs (10 o'clock position) , I am fairly sure it is corroded because the black thing is deeper than surface of the case. If it is only dirt it will be thicker than the case. (Pardon my english I can not find the right words to describe the condition).
Just hope it only stays there and not going inside the case. Another clue that this watch has been exposed to humid and heat is the cracking of the dial paint.
I've bought a 80's Speedy Pro moonwatch before that has similar case surface corrosion speck. What I see inside is very awful. Quickly I return it to the shop where I bought it and bite 10% restocking fee. I thought I make cheap score and could make some profit flipping it. Not happening.

Hopefully you pay very cheap on this one or have return option.

 

The seller is from California (sometimes considered a separate country) so corrosion is a distinct possibility. I fully realize that I have some work ahead of me.
From your history, Steve, I respect your opinion greatly. Thanks for your input. Do you feel that the case and dial are in fact original? My guess is that this is very early 60s vintage, with a cal 551. This is my first pie pan and at this point I am all about gathering knowledge...

 

Hang10

Your title to this thread was "Please tell me if I have done well". We still can't answer that question because you have not told us the one vital piece of information we need - how much you paid for it Like, if you paid $5, yes you did brilliantly . . . (just my little joke )

 

Sorry about the wording. My intent was to see if I had in fact gotten an original pie pan constellation. The money invested was secondary.
Since several people have asked, the price was $350.

 

For that price I think the gamble was worth it..The case looks like it's more dirt than corrosion. Still a chance, but I think less of, knowing now what you paid.. This puppy will need some TLC

 

Understood, thanks. Any other recommendations and info would be greatly appreciated.

 

Source the correct decagonal crown, and buff up that crystal to start... Wouldn't overdo the polishing on this one as it's already a bit worn, just a very light spruce.. Get some pictures of it on, when it arrives.. I always like a before and after thread.

 

You probably already know this, but for everything you could possibly want to know about Constellations -

http://omega-constellation-collectors.blogspot.co.uk/

Desmond's site is just amazing. And even if you already know all about it, another nube might not

 

$350 is a definite win. Hell, you have a great dial & hands at the very least.