1962 and all that....
Discussion
Ok, so I am going to buy myself a little present, and I am thinking of purchasing a watch made in the year of my birth ..1962.
I am leaning towards an Omega Seamaster, in 18ct gold, ( its the only watch of the era that I grew up being aware of because my uncle had one) but could be pursuaded to something else if it took my fancy. ( I did see a lovely Breitling that was simple and elegant, but also, sadly, sold! )
Anyway, i am seeing prices for the Seamaster anywhere from 1200 pounds to 2500 pounds ( and some higher than that). Is that about the right level or do I need to budget more? Also, where to buy from and what to look out for? I am something of a watch novice so any tips, recommendations or help will be greatly appreciated.
I am leaning towards an Omega Seamaster, in 18ct gold, ( its the only watch of the era that I grew up being aware of because my uncle had one) but could be pursuaded to something else if it took my fancy. ( I did see a lovely Breitling that was simple and elegant, but also, sadly, sold! )
Anyway, i am seeing prices for the Seamaster anywhere from 1200 pounds to 2500 pounds ( and some higher than that). Is that about the right level or do I need to budget more? Also, where to buy from and what to look out for? I am something of a watch novice so any tips, recommendations or help will be greatly appreciated.
OK, I have been offered a watch that appears to match my spec from a reputable dealer.
However, whilst it has the original box, it does not have the original papers - Is this important. The dealer is claiming that the lack of papers is of no concern.
Also, the watch is being presented as a Omega Seamaster De Ville, But the images of the face show that it does not say De Ville on it. Is this normal? I have seen some other Seamater De Villes from the same era (early 1960s) and they do say De Ville
Confused!
However, whilst it has the original box, it does not have the original papers - Is this important. The dealer is claiming that the lack of papers is of no concern.
Also, the watch is being presented as a Omega Seamaster De Ville, But the images of the face show that it does not say De Ville on it. Is this normal? I have seen some other Seamater De Villes from the same era (early 1960s) and they do say De Ville
Confused!
andymadmak said:
OK, I have been offered a watch that appears to match my spec from a reputable dealer.
However, whilst it has the original box, it does not have the original papers - Is this important. The dealer is claiming that the lack of papers is of no concern.
Also, the watch is being presented as a Omega Seamaster De Ville, But the images of the face show that it does not say De Ville on it. Is this normal? I have seen some other Seamater De Villes from the same era (early 1960s) and they do say De Ville
Confused!
On the papers point of course it matters - how will you know that it was first sold in 1962 otherwiseHowever, whilst it has the original box, it does not have the original papers - Is this important. The dealer is claiming that the lack of papers is of no concern.
Also, the watch is being presented as a Omega Seamaster De Ville, But the images of the face show that it does not say De Ville on it. Is this normal? I have seen some other Seamater De Villes from the same era (early 1960s) and they do say De Ville
Confused!
On the latter point I suggest you check on the Omega Forum: http://omegaforums.net
The serial number will indicate when the watch was made, without a receipt (and I suspect the vast majority of watches lack this) you'll have to take a punt on when the watch was sold (if it matters to you).
I've got a '61 Seamaster, but I figured there was a reasonable chance it was sold in '62
To me, all that REALLY matters is that there was a good chance it was sold in '62 and is a decent example for the price.
It works for me, but being a simple SS one, the price was far lower than the OP's considering.
M.
I've got a '61 Seamaster, but I figured there was a reasonable chance it was sold in '62
To me, all that REALLY matters is that there was a good chance it was sold in '62 and is a decent example for the price.
It works for me, but being a simple SS one, the price was far lower than the OP's considering.
M.
With regards to papers, I guess it depends on whether it is important to you. If the watch is going to be a 'safe queen' and you want the whole buying experience then perhaps yes it does. If you want to wear the watch and enjoy it for what it is then maybe not. The main thing is you must make sure you are paying a price reflective of the offering.
From my experience, I own a 1962/63 (not quite sure which) Omega Seamaster 30 very similar to the one posted above and bought it watch only. Had it nigh on ten years and love it as it is for what it is. I recently bought a vintage Rolex Submariner where papers make a big difference to the asking price. Main thing is, I decided I wanted to put all money into the right watch as it is something I am wearing all the time, rather than papers, costing let's say £500, that end up sitting in a drawer.
As for where to buy, you have retailers such as Austin Kaye but be prepared to pay top prices for these. Otherwise get involved in the good watch forums - that is where I bought mine.
I would advise against eBay as there are just too many fakes and dodgy re-dials floating around.
Can't offer specific advice on the De Ville I'm afraid. Happy hunting!
Cheers
SS
From my experience, I own a 1962/63 (not quite sure which) Omega Seamaster 30 very similar to the one posted above and bought it watch only. Had it nigh on ten years and love it as it is for what it is. I recently bought a vintage Rolex Submariner where papers make a big difference to the asking price. Main thing is, I decided I wanted to put all money into the right watch as it is something I am wearing all the time, rather than papers, costing let's say £500, that end up sitting in a drawer.
As for where to buy, you have retailers such as Austin Kaye but be prepared to pay top prices for these. Otherwise get involved in the good watch forums - that is where I bought mine.
I would advise against eBay as there are just too many fakes and dodgy re-dials floating around.
Can't offer specific advice on the De Ville I'm afraid. Happy hunting!
Cheers
SS
This is a 1960's Seamaster automatic, not sure of exact date as this would involve opening it up for the calibre number etc.
I was given it a few years ago, and some folk have said 'get it refurbished' but I quite like the 'patina' ( ie oxidation of the dial )
I had it cleaned/serviced a few years ago, it has the 'quick set date' function ; ie to change the date you go through 9pm to 12, then back again etc.
It had the original stainless steel bracelet but I prefer it with a modern deployment/leather.
It has the original Omega acrylic crystal, complete with the minute Omega symbol in the centre ( underside) of the dial which can only be seen with a loupe !
It is a nice original Omega, and I do not have any papers etc as it was a gift from a relative, so I know it's provenance !
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