Everything you need to know about Vintage Omega Watches

Omega is a Swiss luxury watch brand that has been around since 1848. The brand is best known for its innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship. Omega has been responsible for some of the most iconic timepieces ever made, including the first watch worn on the moon. Today, Omega continues to produce beautiful watches that are highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

When it comes to vintage Omega watches, there are a few things you should know. First and foremost, these watches are highly collectible and can be quite valuable. As such, it’s important to do your research before making any purchase. Additionally, a vintage Omega watch can be tricky to service and repair, so it’s important to find a reputable watchmaker who is familiar with the brand.

What are the most popular watches from the Omega collection?

 

Omega Speedmaster

The Omega Speedmaster is one of the most iconic Omega watches. First introduced in 1957, the Speedmaster was designed as a professional-grade chronograph for racing drivers and astronauts. Over the years, the watch has been involved in some of the most important moments in history, including the first moon landing and various space missions. Today, the Speedmaster is still highly sought-after by collectors and remains one of the most popular vintage watches.

What sets the Omega Speedmaster apart from other watches is its unique design and functionality. The watch features a three-register chronograph layout with a tachymeter scale bezel, making it perfect for timing laps or measuring distance. Additionally, the watch is equipped with a sturdy stainless steel

Omega Seamaster

The Omega Seamaster is another iconic watch from the Swiss brand, one of the earliest models which was first introduced in 1948, the Seamaster was Omega’s first sports watch and quickly became popular with professional adventurers. The watch is known for its durability and precision, as well as its unique design.

The modern Omega Seamaster has a helium escape valve. This feature allows the watch to equalize pressure when diving to great depths, making it safer and more comfortable to wear. Additionally, the Seamaster has a water resistance of up to 1000 meters, making this watch the most durable of the Omega collection.

Omega Constellation

The Omega Constellation is a classic watch that has been in production since 1952. The watch is known for its elegant design and classic good looks. The Constellation is available in a variety of different metals and styles, making it a versatile addition to any collection.

What sets the Omega Constellation apart from other watches is its unique ” Observatory” caseback. This special case back was designed specifically to celebrate the precision of the Constellation and features a three-star logo that represents the international observatories where Omega timepieces were tested for precision. Additionally, the Constellation is also equipped with a chronometer-certified movement, making the watch one of the most accurate in the collection.

The watches mentioned above are just a few of the most popular models in the collection. When searching for an Omega watch, it’s important to consider your personal style and needs. With so many different models to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect watch for your collection.

What function types are there in the Omega collection?

Chronographs

Chronographs are a type of watch that is used to measure time intervals. They are typically used by athletes to track their performance, but can also be used for other purposes such as timing cooking food. Omega has a long history of producing high-quality chronographs, and their vintage models are highly sought-after by collectors. When choosing a vintage Omega chronograph, it’s important to consider the model, year, and condition of the watch. Vintage Omega watches often feature unique designs that set them apart from later models. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the watch is in good working condition before making a purchase.

Chronometers

Chronometers are a type of watch that is highly accurate and regulated by an official body. In order to be certified as a chronometer, a watch must meet strict precision standards. Omega has a long history of producing chronometers, and their vintage models are highly sought-after by collectioneurs. When choosing a vintage Omega chronometer, it’s important to consider the model, year, and condition of the watch. Chronometers from the 1960s and 1970s are particularly popular among collectioneurs, as they often feature unique designs that set them apart from later models. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the watch is in good working condition before making a purchase.

Diving watches

Diving watches are designed to withstand the extreme conditions found underwater. They typically feature a water-resistant case, screw-down crown, and rotating bezel that can be used to track dive time. Omega has been producing diving watches since the 1950s. When choosing a vintage Omega diving watch, it’s important to consider the model, year, and condition of the watch. An Omega watch often features unique designs that set them apart from later models. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the watch is in good working condition before making a purchase.

Day-Dates

The day-date is a type of watch that features a calendar complication that displays the day and date. Omega has also been producing day-date watches since the 1950s. When choosing a vintage Omega day date watch, it’s important to consider the model, year, and condition of the watch. Day-date watches from the 1960s and 1970s are particularly popular among collectioneurs, as they often feature unique designs that set them apart from later models.

Multifunction

The term “multifunction” refers to a watch that features multiple complications, such as a chronograph, day date, and/or GMT function. Omega produced multifunction watches since the 70’s. When choosing a vintage Omega multifunction watch, it’s important to consider the model, year, and condition of the watch.

What are the features of vintage Omega watches?

These watches are made with a variety of different materials, including multiples types of gold, such as solid yellow gold and rose gold, further materials are silver, stainless steel, and more. Depending on the model, you’ll find that some watches are made with more precious metals than others. Additionally, some watches feature unique materials, such as mother-of-pearl or enamel.

Clockwork

Vintage watches are powered by a variety of different movements, including automatic, manual, and quartz. Automatic movements are the most popular type found in Omega watches. These movements use the energy from your body’s natural movement to keep the watch ticking. Manual movements require winding on a regular basis, while quartz watches are powered by a battery. When choosing a vintage Omega watch, it’s important to consider the type of movement that powers the watch. You’ll find that each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Water resistance

When searching for an Omega watch, it’s important to consider if you need the watch to be water-resistant. Vintage watches tend to have markings of being water resistant but this cannot be guaranteed after 50+ years. Chronographs and diving watches tend to be more expensive than other types of vintage Omega watches. When searching for an Omega watch, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. This will help you narrow down your search and find a watch that fits your needs and budget.

Dial colors

The dials on vintage models come in a variety of different colors, including black, white, blue, and more. Depending on the model and year, you’ll find that some watches feature more unusual colors, such as green or brown.

Bezel styles

The bezels on an Omega watch come in a variety of different styles. Depending on the model, you’ll find that some watches feature more unique bezel designs, such as the popular Speedmaster “Moonwatch” with its characteristic bezel insert.

Case sizes

An Omega watch can come in a variety of different case sizes, from small to large. Depending on your preferences, you’ll find that some models are better suited for formal occasions, while others are perfect for everyday wear.

How to wind your vintage Omega watch?

Manual winding

If your watch has a manual wind movement, you need to wind it every day to keep it running. To wind your watch, simply turn the crown away from you until it gives resistance. You should wind your watch until it’s fully wound, which is typically about 40 turns. Once your watch is fully wound, you can set the time by turning the crown in a counterclockwise direction.

Automatic winding

If your watch has an automatic movement, you don’t need to wind it manually. Instead, the watch will wind itself as you wear it. However, if you haven’t worn your watch in a while, you may need to give it a few winds to get it started again. Many vintage watches need to be wound to “kickstart” the mechanism, plus more and more people have sedentary jobs with less movement of the wrist, so don’t rely just on the automatic winding.

The crown

The crown is an important component of a watch, as it is used to set the time and date. Crowns can come in a variety of different styles, including screw-down, push-pull, and more. Depending on the model of your watch, you’ll find that some crowns are more difficult to use than others. When choosing an Omega watch, it’s important to consider the style of the crown and how easy it is to use.

Usage of the crown

When setting the time on your watch, you’ll need to use the crown. To do this, simply turn the crown in a counterclockwise direction until you reach the desired time. Once you’ve set the time, be sure to push the crown back into place to ensure that your watch is water-resistant.

How to choose the right vintage Omega watch?

When choosing a watch, it’s important to consider your personal style and needs. Are you looking for a watch to wear every day or something more formal? Do you need a chronograph or diving watch? Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll be able to narrow down your search and find the perfect vintage Omega watch for your collection.

Price spectrum of Omega watches

Omega watches can be found at a variety of different prices, depending on the model, year, and condition of the watch. Generally speaking, Omega watches from the 1960s and 1970s are more expensive than those from later years. Additionally, chronographs and diving watches tend to be more expensive than the other types. When searching for a vintage Omega watch, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. This will help you narrow down your search and find a watch that fits your needs and budget

Where to buy a vintage Omega watch?

There are a few places you can buy an Omega watch. You can purchase one from a brick-and-mortar store, online retailer, or auction website. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one for you.

If you’re looking for the largest selection of Omega watches, a brick-and-mortar store is the way to go. However, you’ll likely pay more for your watch than you would if you bought it online or at an auction.

Online retailers offer a wide variety of Omega watches at competitive prices. However, it’s important to do your research to make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller. Additionally, some online retailers may not ship to your country, so be sure to check the shipping policy before you buy.

Auction websites are a great place to find omega watches at a lower price. However, there is always the risk of bidding on a fake or damaged watch. Additionally, you won’t be able to try on the watch before you purchase it, so be sure to know your size.

The best place to buy an Omega watch is from a reputable dealer who specializes in vintage watches. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting a quality watch at a fair price.

Check out our collection of vintage Omega watches.

How to care for your watch?

To keep your Omega watch in top condition, it’s important to have it serviced regularly by a qualified watchmaker. Additionally, you should avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures or magnetism. With proper care, your vintage Omega watch will provide you with years of enjoyment.

How to spot fake vintage watches?

Unfortunately, there are many fake vintage watches on the market. When searching for a vintage Omega watch, it’s important to be aware of the signs of a fake watch. Some common signs include incorrect markings on the dial and case, poor quality materials, incorrect movement, or a wrong reference number. If you’re unsure about a watch, it’s always best to consult with an expert before making a purchase.

Serial number

The serial number on an Omega watch can be used to date the watch. The first two digits indicate the year of production, while the last four digits indicate the watch’s caliber. For example, a watch with the serial number “13.567.892” would have been produced in 1952. The serial number must be engraved into the movement or case for the watch to be authentic. Check your omega watch serial number here.

Omega logo

The Omega logo is another important factor to consider when spotting a fake watch. The logo should be crisp and well-defined, with no imperfections. If the logo is fuzzy or seems to be printed in a weird way, it’s likely that the watch is fake or a redial. Check how to spot redials on Omega watches in this article.

Markings on dial and case

When examining the dial and case of an Omega watch, all markings should be clear and precise. If the markings are blurry or seem to be missing, it’s likely that the watch is fake.

Materials

When inspecting an Omega watch, pay close attention to the materials used. Omega watches are made with high-quality materials, so if the watch seems to be made with cheap materials, it’s likely that it’s a fake.

Movement

The movement is an important factor in determining the authenticity of an Omega watch. All Omega watches use Swiss movements, so if the watch has a Japanese or Chinese movement, it’s not an authentic Omega watch. Additionally, all Omega watches have a serial number on the movement. If the serial number is missing, the watch is likely a fake or stolen.

Reference number

Each Omega watch has a reference number that can be used to identify the model and year of production. The reference number is usually located on the case back or on the inside of the watch. If the reference number is missing or doesn’t match the model and year of the watch, it’s likely a fake.

Concluding

Overall, vintage Omega watches are a great choice for those looking for a quality timepiece. These watches are built to last and can provide many years of enjoyment with proper care. When searching for an Omega watch, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of a fake watch. By taking the time to examine the watch carefully, you can avoid being scammed and end up with a fake watch.

Interested to see some authentic examples of vintage omega watches? Check out our collection here.