Ive had a 145.012-67 speedy for a year which I bought with no service history and was wondering if I should get it serviced or just leave it alone. watch runs a bit fast (+25 sec per day, faster when worn, a bit less when not worn, left face up), though that doesn't bother me much. The hour totalizer doesn't reset to zero.

Ive contacted a couple of recommended independent watchmakers/services centers. One gave me no quote or info, they just said ship it to us and then we'll give you an estimate. The other told me they would have to replace the pushers, crown and crystal , gaskets (standard during service they said). They also said if the lume on the dial was degrading, they'd recommend replacing the dial (because it could get into the movement). They said they needed to see the watch for exact estimate but their rough estimate for the 321 caliber was expensive and almost double the price of the 861 caliber vintage service. They also told me if this had ever been in for an omega service in its 48 year old lifetime, it has already had the pushers and crown replaced and probably the crystal

i wouldn't want to replace the dial (or hands) my main question is whether its normal and acceptable to collectors to have your pushers, crown and crystal replaced, considering they won't even service it (and provide their warranty) unless they can replace those parts. If they replace those parts with authentic omega and period correct for the watch, do you still consider that "original" and it doesnt affect the value or vintage integrity of the watch? Thanks

 

I asked the same questions a couple months ago.

https://omegaforums.net/threads/how-many-original-parts-can-be-saved-on-a-speedy-145-022-68.30147/

 

Find a place that doesn't force anything on you - it sounds like the people offering to replace everything is either Omega themselves, or an AD that will send it to Omega. Do not do this.
That said, find yourself a watchmaker who you trust (ask around if need be) but definitely get it serviced - old movements should be serviced especially if they're not behaving, in case the problem should create more issues.

 

thanks, this was helpful

 

I knew about avoiding omega service, especially on the older(321) vintage speedys, I asked two independent watchmakers both have been recommended on various watch forums including this one and those were the answers I got. I think the who gave me the quote has this policy because they give a warranty but they won't give that warranty without knowing they've assured water resistance. (not like id be diving with this on!)

I would gladly take recommendations for a trustworthy watchmaker who won't force anything on me. Im in the NYC area, but of course, I will ship the out to the right person. I got one referral for a vintage omega expert in Canada, but I dont know if that is troublesome to ship from USA and back. Thank you

Im also wondering if i should go ahead and agree get the pushers and crystal replaced. The crown was already replaced once before.

 

Only replace parts if they're visibly damaged and are inoperable. The crystal isn't a problem - replace it if you prefer, or just get it polished - but replacement pushers will devalue the watch.

As for watchmakers in NYC, try Tempvs Fvgit.

 

many thanks

 

Regarding whether to replace pushers or the crown - I would add that these are designed to be replacement parts as the seals on them degrade and then the watch is no longer waterproof. If you intend to wear the watch and are worried about water ingress, then suggest replacing these. However, I would not trust any vintage speedy to be 100% waterproof, so would not advise e.g. wearing it in the shower. If it was my watch, I would keep pushers and crown original and be careful if I wear it.

 

On the same question, but a 861 movement thou. Has someone a good recomendation for a watchmaker in Germany who knows his way around vintage speedys? Seems like no matter where I go I get the same answer: "Cal. 861?! I'm no Omega cert. watchmaker and will not be supplied with parts if needed. Send it in to Omega!" And that is the last thing I want to do. The one Omega Certified Dealer/watchmaker I came up with basicly told me that he's going to send it in aswel. I live in the Frankfurt area but would gladly ship it across Germany if there is some Omega Specialist. Thanks!

 

I'd add to what Mozambiqu saidthat the gaskets also keep out humidity. If you live in a humid area, it may be worth replacing. Just get the originals back. You can always put them back on.

 

I am not in Germany but only across the Rhine in France.

PM sent if you are interested in alternative servicing.

www.roberthoran.eu