Vintage Omega Seamaster watch, opinions and views needed.

Super Tigers · 7 Jan 2007 at 12:49

For the past 4 weeks I have been looking at vintage 1950-1970 Omega Seamaster self-wind watches. I have seen so many repainted and re-made cases on Fleabay and I don't want to buy from there. Near to where I work is a small jewelers who has a small selection of vintage watches. He has a Longines, Kered and a Stainless steel Omega Seamaster.

It is in good condition with original Crystal, signed crown, and seahorse medallion on the case back. It features original gold hands and hand riveted gold markers. Caliber is 501, i didn't get the serial number but I have found the watch at the Omega vintage website, everything looks kosher and it dates from 1958.

Only downside is that the watch has had an aftermarket stainless steel bracelet instead of the original leather strap. Also the case back has a couple scratches on it.

The watch is available for £295 but the jeweler has said he is prepared to negotiate on this. What should I be looking to pay for a totally original and un-restored Seamaster from 1958 in nice but not perfect condition. Hopefully will be going back to the shop on monday to finalise the deal.

Thanks for looking

Rob H

Super Tigers · 7 Jan 2007 at 12:57

This is a like the one I saw.

Messiah Khan · 7 Jan 2007 at 13:13

I don't kow much about Omega Seamasters at all tbh. But that one looks quite nice. Personally I would have nothing against getting a good quality, good condition second hand watch. And a Omega Seamaster for ~£295 sounds quite reasonable IMO. I want to try and get hold of a second hand Grand Seiko from somewhere.

Super Tigers · 7 Jan 2007 at 13:40

The watch is quite understated, I don't like the huge rolex and the newer Seamasters, I find them quite vulgar and ostentatious. Whereas the 1950s and 60s Seamasters are epitome of hand-built calibers and quality watch-making. Their quality and style will be appreciated longer.

Those Grand Seikos look very rare and difficult to source.

Rob H

Messiah Khan · 7 Jan 2007 at 13:51

I agree about the newer Rolexs and Omegas. Im really not a big fan of the bigger 'diver' style watches. I much prefer the more understated and dress style watches. The fact that the one your looking at is old and second hand also adds a bit more 'class' IMO. As for the Grand Seikos, yup they are very hard to source and will most likely involve importing them from Japan.