Still on the hunt, few options and questions

[Behringer]

Hello all,

I have took a look to all the info you shared with me about "how to fish" and I think I have overcame the first newbie mistakes (checking for the "swiss made" at the bottom of the dial, paying attention to extreme polishing through the gold cap, etc). Therefore I am coming with few options from c24 I would like to discuss with you.

Option 1: Private seller. Asking price: 1400 €



Questions:
I haven't asked yet for photos of the inside. Regarding the watch I really like the color and the dial, but I am not sure if the hands are the originals one. Also, why there are some constellation with the little star under the word and some without any?

Option 2: Professional seller. Asking price: 1500 €





Option 3: Professional seller. Asking price: 1500 €





What do you think guys? I have dedicate time going "step by step" on these but I am sure I would be missing something. Also, I am not sure what is a "good price" for these pieces so I would love to hear your feedback.

Thank you!

Pd: I hope its ok that I created such a long post with so many photos, if not please let me know.

 

[Spruce]

No worries, we all like looking at Connies, and we all have opinions .

In recent years, since I stopped wearing a city suit regularly, I’ve gone for stainless steel watches but recently wanted a dressier gold model. Like you I prefer gold capped/plated rather than a real gold version because I feel it’s more wearable.

I think you should decide whether you want a gold dial or white/cream. I have both but at present enjoy the 'blingier' gold dial (as in my avatar).

I also think that the prices you quote are very much on the high side for capped watches with worn/scratched cases.

 

[Spruce]

As a general rule, Chrono24 is an expensive place to purchase with prices often 20/25% above value

 

[Peemacgee]

@Behringer
You need to read Desmond’s article on C cases
http://download1582.mediafire.com/r...w/nwtxwmkgyfl/C-Shape+OMega+Constellation.pdf

 

[Dan S]

If you like one of them, buy it, but it's pointless to shop on C24 and then ask about price. You are not going to find a good price on that platform.

 

[Bruce235]

Since you are concerned about price/value (aren't we all?) Stay away from Chrono24 and look to the private sales forum on this site and ebay recommendations by dsio. Sometimes eBay produces some good deals. There are some Japanese sellers with good stuff too, but you need to scrutinize.

 

[Aroxx]

The cases look soft, especially the first one. As already mentioned, prices on Chrono24 are inflated. You should be looking at about $600-$1000 USD for a C-case. Maybe a bit higher if it's in great condition and recently serviced. $600 being a very good deal at auction. The reason some have a star and some don't is you're comparing different references. Later C-cases have a different movement and they changed the dial text layout. Check out the post below that I made in the C-Case thread that breaks things down at a high level.

https://omegaforums.net/threads/the-c-cased-constellation-thread.72308/page-58#post-2128430

You should decide which reference you want and then hunt from there. In general, the earlier 500 series movements are more desirable. Once you decide which reference you're after, set up alerts on eBay and keep your eyes peeled and check here as you're doing before buying. There are tons of these in Japan so keep an eye out for Japanese sellers but be careful as lots of the Japanese sellers on eBay just re-list Closer0924's stuff at a higher price. That being said, check out Closer0924. A lot of his stuff has condition issues but if you're patient you could find a nice example.

 

[X350 XJR]

With patience you should be able to find a much nicer gold capped c-case for $1000 or less.

 

[apsm100]

As an ex-noob (maybe) I'd recommend getting comfortable with eBay asap. Use the recommended eBay watches thread to get started.

For comparison, I paid 750USD for this one a few weeks ago on eBay.

 

[SOG53]

550 on EB couple months ago. Not perfect but pretty good and very wearable with orig bracelet

 

[Aroxx]

I’ve tried to get a couple pictures of what a “sharp” case looks like to give you an idea of what to look for. In general, a gold capped case will probably be a bit softer than steel but you should be able to see the sharp polished bevels on the side of the case and on the lugs. If the lugs are rounded off you know it’s been polished. Also, the top of the case should have a brushed finish. If it looks polished then you know what happened.

 

[SOG53]

My gold cap not as sharp as @Aroxx SS above but not bad for gold cap still see edges and some circular brushing

edit - you need this view to see the edges many sellers with polished examples will only give straight dial views and it’s hard to tell on those alone

 

[Behringer]

Peemacgee

@Behringer
You need to read Desmond’s article on C cases
http://download1582.mediafire.com/r...w/nwtxwmkgyfl/C-Shape+OMega+Constellation.pdf

Amazing, thank you for this!!

 

[Behringer]

Thank you all guys, I have learnt a lot. Also, I am checking on Ebay and its true that on average is way more competitive on price. Just one question, do you know if the level of "security" is the same in Ebay as its on C24? Just asking because in the second you may have more checks regarding how "legit" is the seller or piece. Am i wrong?

Thank you!!

 

[X350 XJR]

In twenty or so years, I have maybe had two or three issues with watches/sellers on eBay and I'm talking over three thousand transactions. Those issues were resolved in my favor either by eBay or in one instance a charge back I filed with Amex.

From my experience eBay is a safe place to buy, but don't expect them to do your work for you (make a poor choice/decision and blame them). Due diligence and research is a must regardless of where you choose to shop. Buy the seller.

 

[Spruce]

As @X350 XJR points out, the issue is not whether or not the watch will arrive but is it as good as I hoped it would be after making my (winning) bid.

Although you can visit the 'original listing' on eBay, my practice is to screenshot all the photos and, more importantly, the specs and seller’s description.

That said, there are no shortcuts in checking everything out and, if you think that the photos are photoshopped or generic, just walk away.

 

[wagudc]

apsm100

As an ex-noob (maybe) I'd recommend getting comfortable with eBay asap. Use the recommended eBay watches thread to get started.

For comparison, I paid 750USD for this one a few weeks ago on eBay.

Very nice, good snag!