Counterfeit Stainless Steel Constellations

Vintage solid gold Omega Constellations aren't the only models to attract the attention of Vietnamese and Chinese counterfeiters.

With sharp stainless steel Piepan Connies attracting high demand and comparatively high dollars, our enterprising oriental brothers have been churning out fake cases and dials of varying degrees of faithfulness to the originals.

Click here for a short essay on how to tell the fakes from the real McCoys.

98 comments:

  1. As usual another great article, thank you! I took a risk last year and purchased a gold cap pie after reading many of your articles, and you later vouched for my astute purchase. I will be picking it up soon from my watch guy with the NOS crown and new gaskets... I will send you pictures :)

    Bruce

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks for your kind comments Bruce.

    Love to see some pics of your Connie.

    regards

    desmond

    ReplyDelete
  3. The very watch in this article is on Ebay now... #140230737490

    Thanks again...

    ReplyDelete
  4. Yep, Bruce.

    Its surfaced again :)

    regards

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  5. Any comments on the authenticity of the following Constellation on eBay.

    http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=380016136068

    Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Mondodes,

    Good day. I am a Filipino eager to start collecting vintage watches but I dont know where to start... could you point me in the right direction? My budget for watches are also not that high, probably to a max of 400USD. Any suggestions sir? Oh, I found your essay on counterfeit connies useful. Found a faker at ebay.ph item # Item number: 160260881812... the bezel is ROUNDED ! :) I hope to hear from you soon.
    Very best regards,
    Gerard

    ReplyDelete
  7. Hi Gerard

    A very good place to start is to decide a collecting 'stream' before you start buying. To do that you need to look at various models and decide what really appeals.

    The next step is to look at, say, eBay completed listings for that model so you get a good idea of value. Then read up a lot on the p[articular models so you can make distinctions about what is factory spec and what is 'put-together'

    In collecting vintage watches, knowedge is power. It is what saves you from a bad purchase.

    For the price range you mentioned, I believe handwind and automatic Seamaster dress watches in stainless steel or gold cap would be a good place to start. Use the Omega database as well.

    Good luck.

    desmond

    ReplyDelete
  8. Thank you for replying, Desmond. Actually, I have been very keen in the Seamaster model of Omega. Ive been scouring Ebay.ph for them. I will keep you posted for models that catch my eye. :)

    I got the collecting bug from my very first vintage watch I won at ebay... Honestly I didn't know anything about vintage watches, and i didn't care if it was just quartz I just liked how it looked.

    Here it is.

    TISSOT DATE QUARTZ MEN'S DRESS WATCH T882K, ROMAN DIAL Item number: 290244355072

    Now though, I fear tis a Frankenwatch. Arrgg. Anyways, you think its worth what I bought it for?

    Another thing, I am a commercial pilot, any suggestions on some vintage pilot's watch?

    Regards,

    Gerard

    ReplyDelete
  9. Desmond,

    Are Omega Geneve Dynamics a good choice? I found one that seems authentic and I would like to request your advice on the matter.

    It is here:
    OMEGA DYNAMIC GENEVE Automatic Date Classic Watch '70s Item number: 160262738242

    Am currently researching sniping software now for it. :)

    Very best regards,
    G

    ReplyDelete
  10. hi

    Yes Dynamic are a great watch particularly with a cal 565 or 752.

    This one looks ok

    Cheers

    desmond

    ReplyDelete
  11. Anonymous6:02 am

    Comments on this one:

    http://www.mywatch.dk/product.asp?product=1160


    Best regards Tom, Sweden

    ReplyDelete
  12. Not a fake, but in very poor condition. Note the dial and the lettering. Also the case is well worn and the lugs have lost their sharpness.

    Cheers
    D

    ReplyDelete
  13. Hi

    First of all, many many thanks from a complete newbie to the horological world. without people like yourself who share all of this information, beginners like myself would have a much harder job to learn the basics and it really is appreciated.

    I'm looking to buy a vintage Omega, and have eventually decided that a constellation from the late 60's is the way to go. I'd appreciate it if you could take a look at the item below on ebay for me - I've done my best to identify it and I believe that the hands have been replaced at some point but that the case, dial, crown and movement look as though they belong together.

    thanks in advance!

    150407199755

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hi Glenn

    I usually dont recommend new collectors buy calibre 1001 models as they are problematic.

    My suggestion is that you go for a calibre 751 day fate in the integrated stainless steel bracelet style.

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  15. Hi Desmond

    Thanks, great advice - I'll keep looking!

    Regards

    Glen

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hi Desmond

    Sorry to bother you again - whilst keeping my eye out for a cal 751, a cal 561 piepan caught my eye. I'm slightly concerned about the caseback though - the numeral 4 in the '168.004' has an odd shape. if you get a chance to take a look please let me know what you think. (meanwhile I'll keep watching patiently!)

    Ebay item 300391472339


    Thanks

    Glen

    ReplyDelete
  17. Seems ok to me Glen.

    Dial has patina. Movement a bit of tarnishing but overall ok.

    Worth a bid of up to say 425

    Cheers

    desmond

    ReplyDelete
  18. Hi,

    Sorry to hijack, but could you advise on this Constellation please?

    http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330388383166&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

    It's from Watch-mart in India - should I leave well alone?

    Thanks,
    Vi

    ReplyDelete
  19. 500 pounds for a calibre 1011 C-Shape is bordering on outrageous.

    For that monet you could get a calibre 564 C-stainless with stainless bracelet and have some change.

    Generally I dont recommend people buying from these Indian sellers, because in the past I've noticed frankenwatches in their inventory.

    However, if you bone up and become knowledgeable about the watches youre seeking to collect, then sometimes you may source a good watch from India.

    Cheers

    Desmond
    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  20. carlo manila12:42 am

    Hello I'm also starting my love for constellation i have a cindy crawford and a c model I would like to ask your expertise regarding a stainless steel constellation pie pan. I have read your wonderful essay but still I am doubting my abilities. Would you have an email so that i could send pictures. Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  21. carlo manila8:43 pm

    you could email me carlostobillo@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  22. Carlo,

    Just click on the 'about me' section of the blog and you can then click on the email tab.

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  23. carlo manila9:31 pm

    thank you for examining the pictures it helped me alot more power on your site

    ReplyDelete
  24. Excellent article!

    Could I please ask for some advice re the following:

    http://cgi.ebay.com/Stunning-OMEGA-CONSTELLATION-Cal-1001-Rare-Green-Dial-/180582437112?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item2a0b8d50f8

    Thanks in advance, Ash.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Personally I wouldnt touch a cal 1001 powered watch. Design problems means that in my opinion the only people who should own them are those who can fix them.

    The later cal 1011 was the improvement and is a good movement

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  26. Thanks Desmond, that's what I read in your guide as well. It's a really excellent blog you've got here, I'll be reading through it with interest over the next few weeks.

    Can I ask you for your opinion on this one:

    http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280581109083&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  27. CT1112710:35 am

    Just found this SS 168.005 cal 561 on ebay. The spacing of "Swiss Made," "Constellation," and the star look to be off. Case back looks a little odd too. Upper rotor bridge looks like it could have been replaced also, but I'm not sure about this. Can't tell if the case is genuine. What really caught my attention was the spacing of everything on the dial. I'm not thinking about buying it, but thought I'd bring it to everyone's attention. Is it fake?

    http://cgi.ebay.com/OMEGA-168-005-Constellation-Chronometer-PIE-PAN-561-/370495511125?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item564340da55#ht_15270wt_1056

    Many thanks,

    Chris

    ReplyDelete
  28. Checked the listing Chris and as far as I can see only one pic appears of the watch.

    At least a bad redial. I would need to see the side of the watch to determine if the case was genuine, but in this pics I cant see any chamfers on the lugs.

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  29. Anonymous6:10 am

    Hello Desmond,
    Please -if you would - comment on Ebay item # 130546668404 presently being offered by Vintagewatchrestoration.

    Regards,

    Bob Z

    ReplyDelete
  30. Thanks for the link - it is an absolute abomination.

    Badly refinished pie pan dial in a watch that never ever featured pie pans.

    The movement looks awful and is probably franken. Either the seller has placed a day date 751 calibre under the dial, which mmeans he would have remove the day wheel, or he has used a cal 751 bridge to replace the original.

    This is one of the worst frankens I have seen in some time.

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  31. Hi Desmond

    Have discovered your blog and it is extremely helpful...
    I am looking at a watch with case 168027 and a 564 movement. It's from India and so Im a little hesitant - saw your previous comments. I Would really appreciate your comments on it:

    Many thanks for anything you can help with on this.

    http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250843544372&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

    Tim

    ReplyDelete
  32. I wouldnt touch it with a bargepole Tim. Its a frankenwatch: refinished dial, movement corroded and wrong case back. Should be 168.009/17 not 027.

    Best bone up on these models. Take a look at the essay on C-Shapes and also the essay Omega Movements Part 3. Check out the checklists on authenticity too.

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  33. Thanks Desmond. Much appreciated! What should I pay for a decent stainless steel constellation of this type 501 or 564?

    btw, found your essays really helpful.

    Tim

    ReplyDelete
  34. Hi Time

    The C-Shape in stainless with bracelet with original dial fetches around 6 - 800 USD

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  35. I am looking at this watch on ebay#270821220499. May I have your opinion? Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Michael,

    This 14900 is a watch that has been much appreciated. It has the patina of a watch that has seen much service on the wrist.

    Dial is original (a little dial spotting but nothing to worry about); hands are correct' movement looks tidy; it has the wrong crown and ikts too small but that's easily fixed; the case is quite rounded because of wear.

    I would, if I won the auction, factor in having the movement dismantled, cleaned and oiled.

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  37. P. V.5:25 am

    Desmond,

    I am devouring your blog, thank you so much for making your knowledge available for us simple admirers of these watches. I wish I had known more before purchasing for myself a Constellation a few weeks back, what do you think about it in terms of authenticity:

    http://www.ebay.com/itm/150712520842

    Much appreciated.

    Paul V.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Hi Paul,

    Possible the rotor bridge and rotor have been replaced as there is a difference in hue of the copper/beryllium plating on the movement (unless its just the pic). The case back medallion indicates later 564 powered model. Finish on case still has the orbital brushed finish.

    I cant see the case number on the inner caseback but it should read 168.017 or 168.009/17

    While the pics are big, theyre a bit blurry. I have a suspicion the dial is refinished but would need to look at high res dial pipcs to confirm. Send a pic to my email. Click on about me and on the email link and I can take a look for you.

    Cheers

    Desmond

    ReplyDelete
  39. Anonymous1:46 am

    Hello

    Could you help me with omega constellation watch
    I just won a watch on ebay today but im not sure it is real
    many thank in advance

    Best wishes

    Tu
    the guy posted the following information
    MENS MENS USED OMEGA CONSTELLATION QUARTZ WATCH NO RESERVE.

    VERY LOW START NO RESERVE BARGAIN.

    REFERENCE NUMBERS 49500325 (INSIDE BACK OF CASE) - 3961076 (MOVEMENT) 1392/012 (STRAP).

    32MM ACROSS AND 6MM DEPTH APPROX.

    WRISTBAND ADJUSTS TO APPROX 18.5CM (7.5 INCHES). NOTE THERE ARE NO SPARE LINKS WITH THIS WATCH BUT THEY ARE AVAILABLE ON EBAY OR THE WEB IF NEEDED.

    POLISHED STAINLESS STEEL CASE AND BRACELET WITH 4 GOLD CLIPS EITHER SIDE OF THE FACE.

    CHAMPAGNE DIAL WITH 2 SMALLER DIALS FOR DAY AND DATE.

    SAPPHIRE GLASS IN PERFECT CONDITION. A FEW MINOR SURFACE SCRATCHES ON BRACELET AND CASE BUT OVERALL A VERY NICE WATCH. BRAND NEW BATTERY AND RECENT CHECK OVER.

    NO BOX OR PAPERS BUT GENUINE OMEGA.

    PART OF MY OWN WATCH COLLECTION - JUST SELLING TO MAKE SPACE.


    http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=350535698521

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The chances are that this could be genuine, however I think you have gone about the process of buying a watch in reverse. It is really important than you research first, and before you buy.

      This listing has all the classic hallmarks of what sellers of fakes engage in: small pictures, no picture of movement, incidental information like "from my own collection", and so on.

      So now, because these models were indeed faked, you will have to take it to an OMega Service Centre, not store, and have it checked out for authenticity. The pics are too small for me to make that call - sorry

      Delete
  40. Emmanuel6:31 pm

    Hello Desmond,

    I need your advice ont this Omega Constellation:

    http://cgi.ebay.fr/OMEGA-CONSTELLATION-AUTOMATIC-ACIER-1960s-/220976212280?pt=FR_YO_BijouxMontres_Montres&hash=item3373356938

    Franken or not?

    Sincerely yours.

    Emmanuel (a french admirer)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HI Emmanuel.

      The short answer is Yes Franken.

      Notice the stick hands - they are incorrect and should be dauphine hands. The black dial is a refinished dial, but I would expect these markers on a 14902 or a 168.005 watch. Also the Automatic and Chronometer should not appear on dials in this case.

      This watch is one to avoid!

      Delete
    2. Emmanuel11:04 pm

      Desmond,

      Thank You very much!

      Cheers.

      Emmanuel

      Delete
  41. Just wanted top thank you for your advice of a couple of weeks ago - your response to my email and your site really helped me pick uout a good, genuine constellation at a good price - many thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Excellent!

      That's the feedback I like to hear.

      May you wear her well.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  42. Anonymous1:56 am

    Desmond,
    After perusing your website, I went to ebay to test my new-found knowledge. I found an Omega that is clearly fake.

    http://www.ebay.com/itm/140743587684?_trksid=p5197.c0.m619

    The most atrocious error is that the "SWISS MADE" at 0600 is misspelled!! I sent the seller a message, but have not heard back. I feel obligated to tell ebay about this. For the sellers that have ignored your pleas to come clean, do you usually let the auction site know of the scam, or do you just let sleeping dogs be?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi and thanks for your post.

      Yes that dial looks as though it has been refinished and yet nowhere in the listing do they say it has. The S could have come off through bad handling during a service, but it reads really silly, doesnt it?

      Regards

      Desmond

      Delete
    2. Sorry I forgot to answer your question. Yep, I report the seller to ebay and encourage everyone else I know to do the same thing.

      Delete
  43. MCTIGHTIE8:46 pm

    I GAVE JUST BOUGHT A 1970 WAFFLE DIAL CONSTELLATION DESCIBED AS NEAR MINT OFF E BAY.
    IT'S JUST ARRIVED.
    IT LOOKS NEWER THAN THE PICTURES ON THE INTERNET.
    FOR A 40 YEARS OLD WATCH IT LOOKS LIKE NEW.
    THE SELLER SAYS ITS BEEN SERVICED BUT WHEN SETTING THE TIME THE SECONDS HAND CONTINUES TO MOVE.
    I HAVE TWO OTHER AUTO WATCHES WHEN I SET THE TIME ON THESE THE SECONDS FINGER STOPS, I EVEN HAVE A CHEAP QUART WATCH WHICH WHEN SETTING TIME STOPS.
    WHAT DO YOU THINK

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm trying to think of a waffle dial 1970 model and can't. Perhaps its earlier. Do you have the model number?

      If the movement is a calibre 354/505/551/561/564/751 then 'hacking' (the stopping of the centre sweep when changing time) will not be present.

      The hacking feature was introduced to the calibre 10xx series and should be present if your calibre is of that family.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  44. Anonymous7:44 pm

    Hi, wonder if you can give me some advice on this watch. I am new to this but love its style. Is the gold solid gold or gold plated? Constellation has lots of style in steel/gold, are the gold solid gold or gold plated? Pls have a look for me:
    http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=261148460621&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:AU:1123

    thanks so much

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hard to tell by the pics of this Ladies version. I would most certainly ask for bigger and better pictures so as to do the usual dilligence re fakes.

      Bezel is usually gold and links also, but quartz version may be gold placque.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  45. Hi, Desmond. I wonder if you could have a look at this one for me. The seller is wiling to take an offer, however, he says he does not have the tool to take the back off but he will refund the purchase price if it is not authentic. I have done some research on him outside ebay and he has run a legitimate coin/antique business since 1947. I'm including a link to the auction.

    http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=281197751920&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123

    Do you think this would be a safe purchase for $625?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. A 2852 (by the look of it) with a nice sharp case and case back medallion, original dial for that price seems okay to me. I think its a cal 505 (could be the early 501) but you'll need to factor in a service so as to ensure no wear to parts.

      Dial has patina but its fairly even. The sharp case does it for me. Indicates not too much wrist time.

      Regards

      Desmond

      Delete
    2. Thank you so much, Desmond. You provide an invaluable service. After I find a watch and get some money back in my Paypal I definitely plan to make a contribution.

      Appreciatively,
      Greg

      Delete
  46. Hi Desmond,

    I am a big Omega fan (enjoying a T-17, 18K rose gold 283, Broad Arrow, '46 SS Seamaster and '69 Speed Master Pro) and would greatly appreciate your impressions on the following Connie listing: http://www.watchcompany.com/items/1204183/item1204183store.html. The side view pics do not provide me with enough detail to verify proper faceting of the main case body and bezel. Also the picture of the case back reflects the red flag 14900 62 SC case number, and I am not sure about the quality of the perlage on the inner caseback. Thank you, Peter

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HI Peter, it's a least a frankenwatch as calibre 552 is stamped on the train bridge, whereas cal 551 was the chronometer grade calibre.

      Pics, as you say, could be better. Case could well be a fake, as the inner caseback and case makers stamp are suspect, but I would need to see side-on and dial up to confirm without question.

      On a 14900 dial I would expect to see "Officially Certified" missing on all examples except the later serial numbers.

      So I would steer clear of this one.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  47. Thank you for such a prompt and thorough response Desmond. I really have enjoyed the essays and other site content and will be sure to make a donation. Regards, Peter

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're welcome. Good luck in your search.

      regards

      Desmond

      Delete
  48. Hi Desmond,

    Thank you for an extremely helpful blog. I hope to read and learn even more!

    I would be grateful, if you could give a short comment on the following Constellations?
    1: http://www.ogdenharrogate.co.uk/watches/vintagewatches/watches/5187082omegaconstellationvintagewatch.aspx?p=1&c=8&o=alpha&fvw=vintagewatches.aspx

    2: https://www.chrono24.dk/omega/1962-constellation-signed-6x-pie-pan-twotone-nr--id2649812.htm?urlSubpath=%2fuser%2fnotepad.htm

    Thank you in advance,
    Kind regards, Peter

    ReplyDelete
  49. Hi. Any help or opinions on the authenticity of this pie pan are welcome. The seller description reads that the case model reads 167.005, Automatic movement is caliber 551, and serial number reads 24412737 dating this watch to 1966. Thanks
    http://www.qualityvintagetimepieces.com/OmePPConSSFull.html

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, everything seems to be okay with this one. Case has been polished a tad too much and the lugs are marginally not as sharp as they could be because of polishing, but you can still see the chamfers.

      Dial is very good and matches date of production of movement. These later dials differed slightly. The watch has its original decagonal crown and the movement is both very clean and has the correct signature parts. Cant guarantee if the buckle is 'homage' or original, but overall a tidy watch.

      Regards

      Desmond

      Delete
  50. thanks for the quick response. You are doing a great thing sharing your knowledge to help give people some additional piece of mind.

    ReplyDelete
  51. Anonymous3:41 am

    I know this isn't the correct place for this, but blogger presents these pages in chinese to me, so I can't find anywhere to PM you.

    I found this

    http://www.chrono24.com/en/omega/manual-winding--id3119052.htm

    and just because I really am in love with arrowheads, but don't want to drop serious cash. I almost look at this as buying a good fake Rolex in Mong Kok night market. My question, after having drunk deeply from your marvelous site, is how fake is this? I want to ask him about the innards, but it seems the arrowheads seemingly jutting past the curvature, and past the second demarcations is so over the top I can't even decide to bother him as it approaches dadaism.

    P.S. thanks for links here to what seem to be knowledgeable folks in Taiwan. Thems be in short supply here lemmetellya.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Theoretically this watch should be a model DB 2903 powered by the bullet-proof hand wind calibre 268.

      Dial looks genuine, although I would always ask for high resolution pictures to confirm. Most certainly I would want to see pictures of the movement and inner caseback so as to confirm authenticity.

      If all genuine this watch is worth every bit of the money asked.

      Regards

      Desmond

      Delete
  52. Anonymous1:01 pm

    Wow, thanks, looks like I need to drink deeper.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Dear Sir
    Do you think that constellation coin on back cap 2852 fake or original?
    1. I think that the black ground is collapsing.
    2. Original coin are made by stamping machine not a casting in the picture.
    3. Obviously is not all circle around.
    http://picture.in.th/id/3ea7841aceff460a42402962655c2683
    Best regards

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, It looks like a very worn genuine medallion to me. It may have come from another case back or could have become dislodged from this case back and stuck back in. As you point out, the medallion is not centred, and this indicates to me one of the above.

      The medallions are punched/stamped rather than cast as you suggested and are quite thin 14 karat gold. They are 'fused' to the case back, and I have seen other instances where over time they have dislodged.

      If I was offered this watch I would probably not purchase it because of both the wear and the fact that it has been clearly fiddled with

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  54. Dear sir

    Do you think about 2 holes end of dog lugs original?
    http://picture.in.th/id/9a1ab1ee72f1a50e9723b96b04fe6897

    Best regards.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Greetings,

      No, I think the holes have been drilled aftermarket. By the time the Sixties had arrived, the range of spring bars available had obviated the need for holed lugs. What's more, holes compromised the aesthetics of the case design and certainly do so in the example picture.

      The pictured example is the first time I have ever seen dog leg lugs with holes in them.

      Regards

      Desmond

      Delete
  55. Hello,
    My name is Dorin and I never posted in a website before; I don’t know if I am doing everything right or not, so please bear with me. I just discovered your website and I am very impressed with all the good information I can find here. First I would like to thank you very much for all your effort and your time. This website is extremely helpful for all who love Omega watches and especially for me. I wish to have discovered your website a little bit early before I purchase my first watch Omega. I always dreamed to have an Omega on my wrist especially an Omega Constellation. Not to long ago I found one that I could afford ($550) and I bough it. There are so many out there, especially on eBay with prices between $800 and $1,900 or even higher.
    I think the dial is retouched but I am not sure if is totally repainted or just retouched. As for the movement and the case, I am not sure if is totally original or not. I was just wondering if you would help me on this mater? Any information will be very appreciated. I can send you some pictures with the watch if you like.
    I will understand if you can’t help me; there are so many people asking for your help and probably it is very hard to answer and help all of us.
    Once again, I will like to thank you again for all your help.

    Dorin

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Dorin

      I'm glad you found the website of assistance

      I don't advertise my email address because of spam bots, however if you post your email below I will copy it and not publish the post here

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  56. I was just wondering if you received my email address?
    Thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, this is the only post that has come through. D

      Delete
  57. I just want to tank you very much for all your help.
    I was woandering if you can geve me some advice about the price and the originality of the watch from this listing:http://www.ebay.com/itm/331717854376?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
    I would like your opinion about this watch becouse I want to make a surprise to my wife for her birthday.
    Thank you and I am looking fowart to hearing from you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi

      I'm not an expert on ladies Omegas but at 99.00 if you were the winner of the auction you cant really go wrong. Movement needs servicing by the look of it and new crown and case back seal. Dial has patina and for this price I would even consider having Kirk Rich refinish the dial.

      Women's watches are not all that collectible but these earlier Omega are good value and you get a lot of watch for the money

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  58. Thank you for your help. I just want to let you know I win the action and I am very happy.
    It is thrue the movement need cleaning and oiling but as you mentioned for $99 you get a lot of watch for the price.
    I can't wait to surprise my wife with an Omega watch. I am positive she will appreciate it a lot. Do you have any idea about haw much will cost for a dial restoration?
    You help me so much, thanks again for everything.

    ReplyDelete
  59. Sorry I forgot to ask you; what do you see wrong with the crown? Why do I need a new one?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Crown looks old and will have, by now, lost its ability to protect the movement from wrist moisture or other incursion. Crowns are usually replaced at service to ensure as good a seal as possible. Same thing with case gasket.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  60. Anonymous10:28 pm

    Good day,

    I would like to know more about this rose gold capped Pie-pan (details, current value, etc).

    http://s76.photobucket.com/user/twizm_m/library/Connie

    It does seem to have a decagon crown, though much fatter than the stainless steel crown. From what I have gathered, and my own research, the crystal is not original but the dial seems untouched. However, should the second hand be longer than what it is now (I understand that it may gotten shorter from mishandling during service)? Also, what would be the correct buckle?

    Thanks in advance,

    Paul

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Looks like the dial is original and has some patina. Cal 564 model by the look of the dial, with the wrong 2.5mm pipe sized crown when it should have the 2mm.

      Hard to estimate the value without looking at the movement, cas back and seeing a really detailed pic of the dial, but, aparqt from the crown, the watch looks genuine.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
    2. BTW the centre sweep should be the same length as the minute hand.

      Delete
    3. Anonymous5:11 pm

      I have gotten a photo of the caseback and have uploaded it accordingly. The movement, inside is cal 561 (non quickset).

      Delete
  61. Anonymous3:42 am

    I recently received a Constellation the serial starts with 152... and there is 505 stamped on itand the back is stamped 2887-1SC and is 24 jewel is this common I know nothing about it other than I was trying to see if I should invest in a new strap.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The model 2887 is an uncommon screw-in case back version of the 2852. These models in good condition are quite collectible, so it's certainly worth your while to source a strap for the watch.

      If the watch hasnt been serviced for a while, I'd think about sourcing an independent watchmaker to dis-assemble, clean and oil the movement

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  62. Hi desmond,

    My futur husband is an absolute fan of the constellation pie pan and i would like to offer him one of this watch as engagement gift.

    i have read lots of your articles (thanks a lot for your amazing work !) but i m so scared of the fake dial / mouvements / ...

    Could you please give me your feeling about this watch : http://cda.chronomania.net/forum_entry.php?id=188489

    Thanks a lote

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi

      Watch seems to be correct. Note that the dial has white spot which is usually caused by moisture, but it seems to be only on the lacquer and not the paint beneath. Looks quite attractive because the patina is evenly spread. Case is sharp and crown is correct.

      You would be advised to asked when the watch was last serviced, as it looks as though it hasn't been cleaned and oiled for some time. A service will cost a couple of hundred euros.

      Price is too high for an example of this grade. Perhaps you could negotiate him down to around 900 Euros.

      regards

      desmond

      Delete
  63. Good evening, does this watch look legit?

    https://m.ebay.com/itm/OMEGA-CONSTELLATION-PIE-PAN-CAL-561-REF-168-005-GOLD-FILLED-CASE-/263510740693

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, quite authentic.

      Probably desperately needs a service, but movement is clean and everything is there.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  64. Hi Desmond, thank you for looking at the Constellation I am interested in. Wouldnyou please give yournopinion on this stainless steel Connie?

    https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Serviced-Omega-Pie-Pan-Constellation-Cal-564-24-jewel-automatic-watch/263507406125?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2055359.m1431.l2649

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The dial has been refinished and it's a pretty bad job in my opinion.

      Original dials are eminently more collectible.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  65. Anonymous2:18 pm

    Hello Desmond! Thank you for your information. I am curious what your thoughts on are on this piece?

    https://www.chrono24.com/omega/omega-368-vintage-constellation-automatic-chronometer-pie-pan-from-1969-168025-great-cond--id17685422.htm

    I am mesmerized by the brush on the dial, but unsure if this style exists with any other constellations. Also, I am a little put off by the damage on the bezel and lugs. Overpriced?

    Thanks in advance!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, nice dial isn't it. These finishes are pretty well exclusive to the 168.025 and 167.025, being the replacement watch for the 168.005.

      I would call it an 'honest' example, in the sense that the case patina has not been obliterated. For that money though, I would expect a pristine watch, which means that this one is over-priced by about a thousand dollars.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  66. Hello Desmond
    Im a slow collector, 3 to date, of vintage one owner Omega starting with fathers and friends, considering a new addition 168.005 SS model. Based on my research much of it on your site it passes all the tests for originality and good condition.
    My concerns are if it is overpolished, and if there should be a small onyx marker to the right of the date window (some seem to have it, others not- is that an issue?)
    Do you mind having a look and comment please?
    Thank you, Sidney Gottlieb
    Cant sort out how to upload photo?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Gottlieb,

      Just click on my profile and then on the email click-through to send me some pictures.

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
  67. Anonymous7:09 pm

    Hi Desmond,

    Can I have your opinion if this piece is a franken?

    It’s cal 504 but the dial is missing Calender under Constellation.

    https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-OMEGA-Constellation-Gold-Plated-Mens-Watch-168-010-/285193609091?_trksid=p2349526.m4383.l44720.c10&nordt=true&rt=nc

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous9:59 am

      Yes, a bad redial and overall dog of a watch. One to be avoided for sure :)

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete
    2. Yes , a bad redial and incorrect description as a 168.010 One to avoid

      Cheers

      Desmond

      Delete