Would love some help on a potential purchase!

Hi there,

Hope everyone is well wherever they are.

New potential collector here..! I've followed the forum for a while now, trying to learn as much as I can. Still a long way to go though. Always had an interest but now I've finished my studies I've started follow a few auction house sales too, just to watch how they operate, and looked through websites etc.

First question, are auctions a good place to find vintage omegas and watches generally? Are they good value for money? What are their drawbacks?

Second question, how much do you think the below is worth paying for? I think it's very pretty and (in my very limited experience) have not come across an arabic day date like this. It's intriguing and a good talking point etc.

I'd be super keen to hear your opinions and wisdom.

The details listed by the seller are:
Constellation, Gold plated case with stainless steel case back.
Case width 35mm.
Reference 168.019.
Signed automatic calibre 751, numbered 27638556.
Silvered dial with baton hour markers, Arabic script day and date aperture to three. Fitted to an unsigned black leather strap with gold plated pin buckle.



Thanks so much in advance for your help.

All the best

Good that you are asking here.

That particular watch is a hot mess, even with the poor pictures. Apart from the crown, there are two weird spots on the dial (11 and 4). And it’s really dirty—so apparently not well cared for.

There are lots of C-cased Constellations out there. Look for one from a trusted seller here on OF.

Thank you all, I really appreciate the feedback.
Good to know.

The auction house is estimating £300-£400 +(30% fees). Is it worth that do you reckon?

By the way, the spots at 11 and 4 are steel pins protruding through dial...

Instead of taking the time and nurturing the dial feet and screws, someone cut the feet then soldered/melted new ones through, it's very common sadly

The Arabic day/date is pretty rare in usage, but as far as I heard from Archer, they were available during a service

The caseback is in good shape

It's a pretty low meh watch, would be a good beater, I think the main value is the caseback, I can imagine paying $150 to it

I would also look at around 150 all in for parts value, unfortunately you know nothing about the health of the movement too.

If this is to be your first I think this is probably not the best... This is the sort of thing @kaplan and I eye off for parts to fix other projects.

If you are a new C-case enthusiast though please do drop by the C-case thread 😀