wishing to learn - telling the difference

danielmetz · Jan 17, 2025

Hi, hoping that I can use you as a research to learn a little bit. I saw two similar watches on eBay and I wondered how I would go about trying to tell the difference between the two.

I believe these are different watches but my research capacities haven't provided me with any way to tell them apart!
any guidance appreciated as I began to learn how to learn...

Watch 1: https://www.ebay.com/itm/186814552954
"Vintage 9ct omega Geneve Mens watch In Good Working Condition"

internals say "32139143"
caseback "131/25016"

Watch 2: https://www.ebay.com/itm/176769218403
"Vintage 9ct Omega Geneve Dress Watch"

internals say "32682466"
caseback "1315016"

Dan S · Jan 17, 2025

Those appear to be two different examples of the same (or very similar) reference. A Geneve circa 1970 with hand-winding cal 601 movement, cased locally in a 9k gold case. The main difference appears to be finish on the dial surface.

If you are considering a purchase, I'd suggest confirming the size of the case (excluding the crown) to make sure that it is a wearable size. Otherwise, deciding between the two would be based on your personal preference, condition, and perhaps service history.

Vitezi · Jan 17, 2025

Hello @danielmetz and welcome to the forum. The case hallmarks say both cases made in the UK by David Shackman and Sons, the first in 1971 and second in 1973. By the 1970s, the Geneve was sort of an entry-level Omega, as shown in this UK catalog from 1973, bottom right (without calendar):

wishing to learn - telling the difference

danielmetz

Dan S

Vitezi

Similar threads

My Jumbo Omega 14396 with the 'linen' dial pattern. What are the differences compared to 60s linen?

Good starter movement to pull apart (to learn!)

What's the difference between a Datejust 16013 and a Datejust 16233?

A game of.. “Spot the difference”

How to tell the difference between a chromed and SS case on a vintage watch

Noles_88 - A great seller makes all the difference.