Requesting ID help with vintage Omega watch

Posts
1
Likes
3
This watch was purchased new, as I understand it, by an uncle who gave it to my father with the intention of ultimately passing it to me as I was named after him. My father passed a few years ago and now it is one of a handful of cherished items from an uncle I only knew of as a child, and as I've found out over the years, a man I would have been honored to have known as an adult.

From what little I can find, I believe this watch was made in 1945. The watch works fine. I have what I am told was the original gold band that is not shown in the pictures but do not have any other documentation. Apparently, my uncle loved this watch and by the looks of it, wore it often. I saw my father wear it only a hand full of times throughout his life, the last time being after he passed. Not being a 'watch' person, I hope someone can and will take the time to reply to my request for information regarding the Omega watch pictured below. Any information would be appreciated.
serial # 10538633

Thanks in advance for any replies.

Joe

 
Posts
16,451
Likes
34,649
It's a nice watch and with a bit of TLC it should come up nicely.

First thing! Get rid of that expands bracelet!
The spring loaded end pieces tend to chew into the case lugs, and I think I can see evidence on the top left lug. A leather strap would have been the original configuration.

Dial looks original based on the photos I can see, a crystal polish will make it look rather better.

The 18 carat gold case was made for Omega by Manufacture Favre & Perret S.A based in La Chaux-de-Fonds.

The caliber serial number dates the watch to about 1944.

The movement is a "bumper" automatic, so called because the winding weight does not rotate fully around the movement, but travels back and forth in an arc, bumping into the shock springs at the end of each arc (Note that you are missing one).

The movement looks to be a caliber 330, one of Omega's first automatic movements, introduced in 1943.

If you intend on wearing it, servicing is essential to prevent damage and preserve the movement for another generation.
 
Posts
579
Likes
754
Totally agree with JIO, I would add that first you should find a good independent watchmaker for a complete service/overhaul. Specify that case/dial/crown/hands should not be touched, only case cleaned. The crystal may be polish able, if not insist for a low-domed replacement.

bracelet in the bin, replace with a period correct strap, Flat not padded, stitches same colour of leather.
 
Posts
374
Likes
315
i think you already got some really good feedback, i would just add that it could be a very beautiful watch if you manage to find a good watchmaker - hope you will enjoy the watch