Thread: vintage watches

I have a silver Omega pocket watch given to my grandfather in 1923. About 5 years ago it needed repair, the winder knob and shaft parted company with the watch. I knew of a retired watch and clock maker who once worked for the State Horologist fixing and adjusting govt. clocks and watches. He said he had never yet seen an Omega that couldn't be fixed. The winder problem is apparently common with pocket watches and easily fixed. Fixed, cleaned, and calibrated no trouble.

Other than that I know nothing about Omegas.

What do you want to know? I had my father's 21st birthday present Omega Seamaster repaired by Swatch Switzerland (they own Omega, Rado and numerous other brands too) for what I thought was comparative peanuts after it had sat in his bedside table drawer for 15 years with seawater damage due to a dodgy seal... the best customer service I have ever encountered bar none.

This was only 4 years ago - I had a hand written 7 page quote sent to me by post for approval prior to the repair, which I agreed to. The repair itself took 2 months as they had to hand make some replacement parts and get others from their corporate museum... it was returned in a new, vintage model accurate presentation case at no additional cost with a hand written letter from the repairman in faltering English telling me what a joy it was to rebuild this watch for my father... now the omega seamaster is a nice watch, but it isn't that special - however thanks to the above, its a family heirloom now!

I have my Grandfather's Omega Seamaster from 1969. I know he bought it then, as it was on his last trip to the U.S. He saw the ticker tape parade for the returned Apollo 11 crew - we have his photo's somewhere. Anyway, the story my grandparents told was that the company had given them some spending money, which they hadn't got through. Something like $100 remained my Gran thought. So they tried to return it, to be told no, it was theirs to do with as they pleased. Granny said 'Well Bill, you need a new watch' and the Seamaster was bought.
I had it sent in for a service from the dealer in Old Bond Street, Mayfair when I inherited it. Not over impressed with the boutique's service (I think they prefer the Jet Set in there! ) but Omega did an excellent job.

Not sure what it is that you want to know about Omega and Roamer watches.

Have a chat to the guys at Antiquorum. They're in Block arcade in Melbourne.

They've been there a long time and specialise in new and pre-loved swiss watches. They do repair and restoration work. I think they even have a very experienced watchmaker on site.

Whatever your query they should be able to assist.

Their web site is here

Hope this helps you some.

P.S. I have no connection whatsoever with Antiquorum other than I used to regularly walk past the shop.

Cheers,
Iain

Thanks for the tips. Im really wanting to date them. Thought there might be a watchmaker here!