Dear members, I recently got my hands on my grandfathers SM. It has no bracelet and the crystal needs to be changed. My question is, is it worth it? This is what I know, looks like gold over steel. the movement has the # 751 the case CD 168 023 CD 166 032 Serial number 319480XX. I think the watch was given to him around 1970. Any input will be greatly appriciated. Thanks. Rene
Yes, a personal favorite of mine. No matter what the condition, the watch is valuable to you because of its provenance. It is also one that has some appeal to collectors but only if the condition is good.
I do have a number of versions of the cal. 751 SM chronometer but since the OP has a gold cap version, I thought it would be appropriate to post a picture of a gold cap cal. 751 from my collection:
As you can see, it's a VERY popular watch. Got a stainless one myself from MSN a couple years ago. Despite my penchant for gold Omegas, this is one of the few steel models I really like.
Here are some pictures, not the best quility but I hope they will do the job. I contacted Omega and I belive I am looking at about $800-$1000 to get it fixed up, is it possible to take it to a local shop? Thank you for all your feedback this is a great forum. rene
Value-wise, if the watch was in excellent condition it would be worth about $800 so it would not make sense if the intent is to resell. My suggestion would be to spend $200-$300 with a local watchmaker, have it serviced including having the crystal and other parts as needed replaced and perhaps have the case conservatively refinished. Alternatively you could just put it aside as a remembrance from your grandfather as is.
Thank you MSNWatch, my intent is not to sell but to get it back into a condition so I can use it everyday. Again thank you. Rene
A good local watchmaker can do just that with a complete service of the movement, he should be able to get original parts and crytsal. Like MSNwatch says go easy on the polish, if you have a choice make sure he has good metalworking skills to replicate the brushed finish decently, or just leave the case as it is, as your grandfather wore it. Good luck
Do you guys know what is the crystal reference for this piece? 166.032.... I've tried to find at ebay but haven't found my luck....
Please remember that when you are asking for help, the case number is only part of what is needed to determine the part number. You have to state the material and colour of the case...
Oops, it's steel ST 166.032 with white dial...... or perhaps ST 168.023 for the chronomètre version...