A SMILE ON YOUR DIAL?
A dial is, arguably, the most important visual feature of a watch. Irrespective of the excellence of the movement or its timekeeping qualities, if the dial is badly discoloured or flaking it makes the watch look sub-standard, tired or worn out and certainly diminishes its value.
Often Collectors are put off by flaking and badly discoloured dials on otherwise quite original Omega Constellations. Many shy away from such watches because of the general assumption that moisture is the primary cause of dial disintegration. The theory goes, that badly discoloured dials provide a good outward clue of a possibly rusty movement and are best avoided.
There is another possible cause of dial discolouration that behoves the canny buyer to look more closely at watches with discoloured dials.
Sun damage is another cause of paint failure and sun can mimic water damage to the dial paint in many cases.
A beautiful movement with no water damage can lay below, and this type of paint failure, while not good for collectors of original watches, is a wonderful candidate for restoration. However, even seasoned buyers need to be careful when buying watches with badly deteriorated dials – you need to determine very carefully whether the watch dial is damaged from sun or moisture.
So, the first thing that needs to be done when chancing upon an Omega with a badly discoloured dial is look under the bonnet with a jewellers loup. A clean, rust free movement is easily identified, and if the seals on the case have held up well, there will be no tell-tale rust spotting on the non-copperised parts of the movement and no corrosion of the case, particularly at the caseback seam.
If the movement has stood up well to the elements and history or use, you have a choice: Buy and restore (or have restored) or continue on your journey to find a vintage Omega with an original dial. If you take the restoration route, you could have the watch sent to Omega in Bienne, wait for quite a while, and ultimately receive the watch back with a new factory dial.
In the case of Pie Pan Constellations, however, it’s believed that Omega has run out of factory dials and will replace old Pie Pan dials with convex Constellation dials from the same period. Given the increasing likelihood of not being able to source an original Pie Pan dial, you may choose to opt for a re-dial.
So if you choose to re-dial, what are you letting yourself in for? If you can source an excellent re-dialler – they are few and far between – then a dial refinished to look exactly like an original will indeed make a watch look much more attractive.
But, from the standpoint of collecting original Omegas it may not improve the value of the watch – there is an exception and we’ll review that later. From a vintage collectors point of view, a refinished dial diminishes the value of a watch when compared with a watch with an original intact dial that may have a nice patina.
Why is this? Well, generally, refinished dials are not of the same quality as the factory originals. Many refinished dials don’t last as long and are not as durable as original dials. Factory dials may have baked-on, anodised and other manufacturing finishes such as clear coatings covering both the dial and markers to inhibit the ageing process.
Refinished dials are often painted, have ink stamped script and are finished to a lower level of quality and durability. They may mark more easily and often do not contain the level of detail of the originals.
Also, many original dials have the markers soldered to the dial, whereas in quite a number of refinished dials I have seen, the markers have been glued back rather than soldered (for the obvious reason that the soldering process could damage the paint on a re-dial) On occasions the glue is so thick on the back of the dial that it interferes with the running of the watch, particularly with date models.
A bad re-dial with inaccurate detailing can have the value of your watch dropping quicker than a souffle placed in a refridgerator! It’s fair to say that there are many more slap-dash, incompetent and inferior refinishing houses than there are high quality re-dialers. So, if you chance upon one, treat him like royalty.
Now, to the exception mentioned earlier. Because of the globalisation of the vintage watch market and accessibility of stock, many more people have the opportunity to buy Omega watches. A new niche has emerged in the vintage watch market for vintage watches that look almost showroom new. This market is driven, largely, by newcomers. I can attest to that from a continuous flow of emails from such individuals, and, to them, ‘look’ is very important and ‘patina’ and originality is often overlooked. These buyers will pay big money for look and wearability, so you will see on occasions quite high prices being paid for watches with refinished dials.
I imagine though that quite a number of newcomers to collecting, if they’re serious, will ultimately develop a greater level of collecting sophistication and become interested in the finer points of detail, originality, richness of patina and other collectibility factors.
Because of the diminsihing supply of new-old-stock Omega dials, particularly Pie Pan Constellations and other early models, re-dialing will increasingly become a fact of life. Never-the-less, from a long-term collectibility standpoint, re-dialling should be an option when you have no other options.
Finding that special watch – the one that matches your style and your needs equally – can be challenging to say the least. With so many watch designs on the market today, it’s hard to know where to begin to find the style that’s right for you. The Omega watch, a design that’s maintained its popularity and appeal for generations, continues to be one of the more chosen watches on the market.
Founded in Switzerland in 1885, the Omega watch company was the brainchild of Louis Brandt who believed in a pioneering spirit, quality materials, and creative design. Its stunning timepieces were the showpieces of fine European gentlemen. In 1900, the first Omega watch for wrist wear was unveiled – its premier also being recognized as one of the first time wristwatches were introduced to the world.
As the company grew, the Omega watch was universally recognized as a high-quality timepiece that boasted dependability, resilience, and stellar materials. It’s no wonder that by 1916 the Omega watch began being designed for military use. Its reputation for precision even helped elevate the Omega watch to one of the highest responsibilities in a timekeeping role – the Olympic Games; a position it held for an extended period of time. But perhaps the biggest accomplishment of all was the trip the Omega watch took with famed astronaut, Neil Armstrong in 1969. This was following a four-year relationship that had already been established with NASA.
Today, the Omega watch continues to be extremely popular in both sporting and military functions, as well as in an every day capacity for consumers. Its functionality combined with its sleek, high quality design allows form to meet function and has secured the place of the Omega watch in history.
Finding an Omega watch is as simple as visiting your local, high-end jeweler. While somewhat pricey, the Omega watch is considered an investment and the quality of its workmanship will make it a permanent fixture on your wrist for years to come.
Not any other films can be so expected by fans than James Bond series, not any other wristwatches can be so dazzling and expected by watch lovers than the Omega Seamaster, for years, what James Bond wear in 007 have been attracting the move fans, including the suits fitting Bond, the fashionable racing car driven by Bond, the high-speed yacht taken by Bond and the high-tech equipments used by Bond, all of these have become the focus. But there is one thing that you can be sure, that is, Omega Seamaster plays a very important role, and this year James Bond’s fans and Omega watch lovers will be paid for their patience.
When handsome and wise 007 James Bond meets with the classical Omega Seamaster wrist watch, what can be activate? With the release of the newest James Bond film on Nov. 7th , the actor of Bond, Daniel Craig, will wear Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M and continue the revenge. Omega specially The new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m Quantum Of Solace Limited Edition will be available in a limited number of 5,007 pieces. The technical features and design details of the timepiece perfectly match the needs of the most famous spy and strengthen his irresistible charm.
Since the formal cooperation between Omega and film 007 in 1995, the watches worn by 007 spy, regardless of the radiation cutter, mini rope hook or remote ignition equipment, all are Seamaster diving with blue dial which is watch resistant to 300m. in the newest film 007, apart from the compact story and delicate organs, Omega improves the wrist equipment functions for the most elegant king spy for the whole world, which matches with black dial, and the water resistant has gone up to a step, from 300m to 600m, and the only reason for this is only to meet the need of this most particular high-tech spy in the world, making him can deal with different dangers.
The polished and brushed stainless steel case of the Omega watch measures 45.50 mm in diameter. The case construction incorporates a stainless steel unidirectional bezel with a black aluminum ring, as well as a stainless steel screw-in crown. The helium escape valve is found at 10 o’clock. The curved scratch-resistant sapphire crystal is provided with inside anti-reflective treatment.
James Bond movies’ fans will be delighted to see the words ‘Quantum of Solace’ that are discreetly laser-engraved on the inside of the sapphire crystal.
The screwed-in stainless steel case back of the Omega watch features a ’0072 emblem stamp engraved with the limited edition number. The timepiece boasts 600-meter water resistance.
One more exquisite design detail worth special attention is the pattern of the black dial – its texture has been inspired by the checkered plastic grip panels of a Walter PPK, James Bond’s weapon of choice.
The dial of the Omega watch is completed with polished flat facetted applied Arabic numeral, the brand’s name and logo, as well as white Super-LumiNova polished indexes and hands. The central seconds hand improves readability of the dial due to its red tip.
The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600 m Quantum of Solace Limited Edition is equipped with Omega’s caliber 2500, a self-winding mechanical movement fitted with the Co-Axial escapement technology. The COSC-certified movement offers 48 hours of the power reserve.
The new Omega Seamaster goes on a brushed and polished stainless steel bracelet fitted with a Diver’s clasp. Omega and James Bond collectors will be pleased to see the timepiece presented in a special black Quantum of Solace presentation box.
The Omega watch was founded in 1848 by a very young man named Louis Brandt, at La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland. These watches were sold mostly in England at the time, though he also marketed them in Italy, and the Scandinavian countries. The Omega watches were very well received there and Louis Brandt died a wealthy man.
The Omega watches grew in fame over the years and enjoyed high popularity all over the world. Though they are extreme high-end products, the market demand is still very high. This is because they are exceptionally well designed, manufactured with excellent workmanship and totally trouble free for its entire life time.
Some Great Achievements of the Omega Watch Speak for Itself
1. There are a number of international and Hollywood super stars who wholeheartedly endorse and use this watch. Among those who are well known for their Omega watches are Cindy Crawford, Michael Schumacher, Nicole Kidman and so on. This year, Abhishek Bachchan, the famous son of the Indian superstar Amitabh Bachchan, became the new Omega watch Ambassador.
2. The Omega Speedmaster Professional Chronograph was the first watch that made it to the moon; and this is not all. After that maiden voyage, the Omega watch was recommended and worn on all the NASA missions.
3. The Omega watch was the watch that “James Bond” (played by actor Pierce Brosnan) wore ever since the movie Goldeneye was shot. The model worn by the world famous 007 Agent was the 300M Omega Professional Chronometer. The watch is still the official watch for James Bond today.
4. There is an Omega watch that has become a collectible now, after being show-cased in the movie The Big Blue of Luc Besson. This watch is the Seamaster Professional 600.
5. It has also been the official time keeper at many Olympiads including the 2006 Olympiad. Omega will again don the official cloak for the Olympics of 2008.
As you can see, the Omega watch is a world leader is many ways. It has maintained the highest standards of quality and design for over one and a half centuries, making it the instant favorite the world over. It is an upscale product, but something well worth the money spent on it. In appreciation of its outstanding qualities, the Omega watch has been given its limelight position on the global stage; a place that it is well deserved and preserved by this brand.
When it comes to having a reputation for quality there are a few pairings that jump immediately to mind: German automobiles, Japanese electronics, and of course, Swiss watches. While there are many manufacturers of Swiss watches on the market, only one can lay claim to being the first watch on the moon, and the watch that James Bond now wears on his daring missions.
Since 1848 it has been Omega watches strapped to the wrist of real and fictional superheroes, and to the wrists of millions of discerning watch buyers around the world. But in order to understand what makes an Omega watch so special you must take a look back on the storied history of these amazing timepieces.
Fueled by the creative genius of young Louis Brandt, the fledgling Omega watch company grew from a small Swiss shop to a major manufacturer of watches by the end of the 19th century. Their success was built on a foundation of quality, as many of their business decisions were driven not by bottom line dollars, but by a desire for ever increasing quality. By the late 1800s, Omega had staked their place among watchmakers with the release of their first series produced calibre watches, and with that the legend was truly born.
Today we see Omega watches continuing to lead the pack in their relentless pursuit of quality and innovation. In 1999 Omega watch created a stir when they released the first mass produced watch with a co-axial escapement. In laymen’s terms, this escapement mechanism allows the watch to operate with minimal friction and requires almost no lubrication. The result is a watch that requires less service and is more accurate than any of its predecessors.
An Omega watch is high profile; from the people who wear them to the places they can be seen. Omega’s proud team of ambassadors comes from all corners of the celebrity world and they collectively highlight the universal appeal of these amazing timepieces. On the golf links we can see an Omega watch on the wrist of players like Ernie Els, Sergio Garcia, and Michelle Wie. Champion yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur wore one as she sailed around the Earth while champion racecar driver Michael Schumacher is a proud ambassador as he races around the track.
The marriage of sports stars and Omega watches is a natural union for it is Omega watch that provides timing for many of the world’s most prestigious sporting events. In fact, Omega watch is the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games. Already, Omega is leading the countdown for the 2010 Winter Games.
Precision has brought Omega to the forefront of the world of sports, and it was that same reputation for precision that made Omega the watch of choice for those who first slipped the bonds of Earth and traveled to the stars. From the first space walks to the first walks on the moon, Omega watches have been there during many of man’s finest moments. Even today, Omega watches continue to run circles around the competition – literally(!) – as they orbit the Earth on the International Space Station.
When you think of Omega and sports generally you would picture the timers placed around the track at the Olympic games, but in fact Omega delve so much deeper in the world of sport and the Olympics that when you buy Omega watches, you are buying precision, reliability and accuracy that is endorsed by the sports world and its organizations, as well as the many well known sports personalities that have been invited into the Omega family. The respect that these organizations and people give to Omega is a mutual relationship due to the dedication from Omega to sport being identical to the dedication given to watch making.
Omega Watches connected with FINA
Omega watches, timings and qualities are spread throughout sport in to Golf, Athletics and Swimming among others. Over the years the relationship that has formed with FINA (Federation International de Natation) is so strong that their working relationship was extended in 2006. Another mark of dedication is the effort that Omega show in covering all of the FINA disciplines, with 13 technicians and 6 tons of equipment mobilized for their events. Omega has also proved their dedication to golf, with the design, making and naming of the ‘Double Eagle’ watch found in the Speedmaster collection. This is the same dedication and relationship qualities that will be provided to you when you opt to buy your watch with Omega, a benefit to be cherished, and not pushed aside cheaply.
Omega Watches and Swimming Gold Medalists
Sport has enabled Omega to build an amazing reputation for accuracy and precision, this is something has as gone from strength to strength since Omega started out in Olympic Games timekeeping in 1932, but a fine example is when Anthony Nestt took the gold medal in the Olympic Games in Seoul, 1988, after finishing one hundredth of a second ahead of Matt Blondi in the 100m butterfly. This is just one fine example of Omega´s perfection, but there are many more examples similar in a variety of disciplines throughout the sports world.
Omega Watches at the Beijing Olympics
The Beijing Olympics and Paralympics provided Omega with an exceptional challenge which was dealt with like no other sports timekeeper, responsible for time keeping and data handling for 28 different sports at a total of 38 venues, this was done, as expected by Omega, with perfection and professionalism, something for you to experience with Omega when buying your watch.
These facts that display Omegas fine qualities are all so well endorsed that it would be a mistake not to buy your watch with Omega if you are looking for anything from a simple timekeeping piece, through to a sophisticated, elegant and extremely modern work of art to compliment your style and taste.
For over 100 years, watchmaker Omega has been creating masterpieces in the area of luxury brand watches. Both men and women have found something to love with this type of luxury watch. Whether it is the excellent craftsmanship which every single Omega watch possesses or the unique characteristics regarding the style of watch, the Omega brand is highly sought after on the consumer market. There are a few distinct designer qualities which in and of themselves make Omega a top-notch luxury brand.
Attractive Styles
Most individuals who purchase luxury watches want them to stand out on their wrist. They are searching for the type of watch which will look attractive as well as tell the time. With Omega brand luxury watches, purchasers are getting the best of both worlds. They are acquiring a watch which will tell the time with supreme accuracy as well as getting a luxury style of watch which looks great on them. The Omega watches for both men and women come in a variety of styles and no matter which one you choose you are sure to find an attractive watch to suit your style perfectly.
Omega Brand Watches Are Built to Last
Since watches are in a vulnerable spot on the body and can occasionally be bumped now and again, it is important to choose a luxury type of watch which is also durable in nature. Omega designer watches are built to last, which is a quality that all luxury brand watches should possess. When manufactured, the Omega watches go through rigorous testing to ensure that they will last and look good all the while as well. When one spends a good deal of money on their watch they want to know that they will have this timepiece for quite a long time. Omega is a company which strives to present this quality with all of the watches they produce.
Unique Features of the Omega Watch
There are also a variety of unique features which the Omega watches possess. Certain watches have features such as scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, co-axial escapement, mother of pearl dials, colored stone embellishments and more. The more features the Omega watch contains, the higher the price tag. However, if you are set on purchasing a luxury brand watch, considering the Omega name for your timepiece purchase is a great idea. You will be getting a high quality watch with unique features that no other luxury watch manufacturer may offer in many circumstances.
Omega Constantly Outdoes Itself
In addition, the Omega brand of luxury watch is constantly changing with regard to style. New styles of Omega watches hit the market and contain designer qualities which are often even better than their predecessors are. Whether it is to add a higher degree of water resistance or add more crystal embellishments to the watches, Omega is a watchmaker which aims to please and will continue to produce top designer quality watches to the public which are even more unique than the ones already being sold by Omega.
Omega watches have been around for over 120 years with the company first producing watches in 1885, yes, that is a long, long ago! You figure that any company that has been around that long must make a really great product or they would have gone out of business a long time ago. They are located in Biel/Bienne Switzerland and it is one of the more prestigious brand names in watches today.
The company has been able to change with the times and works hard to meet the needs of its customers. They have a rigorous set of steps and procedures that each newly designed product must go through to ensure that it meets the company’s strict set of quality controls.
The company boasts that it was an Omega watch that was the first on the moon with the US Astronaut Buzz Aldrin. It has been associated with the famous James Bond movie franchise since 1995. That year, Pierce Brosnan took over the role of James Bond, and the producers wanted to update the image of the fictional “super-spy” to a more distinctly sophisticated “Euro” look.
Now, with this background information you definitely want to get an Omega watch for yourself. What better timepiece than the one worn by James Bond! Every man wants to lead an exciting life just like him.
If, you are fortunately enough that someone left you and older model of an Omega pocket watch, you should consider yourself very lucky. If it has been sitting around in someone’s drawer collecting dust, do not attempt to start it without having it first checked by a professional watch repair person. Your heirloom watch should be checked out because friction will gradually wear down the components of its mechanisms.
It should be oiled every three years and professional cleaned every 10 years. You can pretty much assume that it has been sitting around for a long time in a drawer and that you should first take it to a professional. If replacement parts are needed, remember to only have those items replaced that are absolutely necessary. You want to ensure that you keep the monetary value of it intact and a conservative approach is best when it comes to replacement parts.
Oh well, you were not left an old Omega watch by anyone in your family, so you are going to go out and purchase one for yourself. There are so many different watch styles to choose from that you will probably be overwhelmed during your search. You can begin by narrowing your search down a bit-do you want a pocket watch or a wristwatch? What special features do you want it to have? Is it important to you that it be self-winding, battery operated, water proof, tell you the date, have a stop watch? By figuring out exactly what you want, you can begin looking at the different models.
Figure out which Omega watch you want and then go out and buy it. You will know that you have purchased a watch that it is truly a fine piece of jewelry. And while no one left you an antique heirloom, may your watch handed down for a few generations will eventually be an antique that is treasurer by someone.
When you are browsing through the ladies collection to select and buy your Omega watch, did you know you are sharing the same taste in quality as many female celebrities?
Omega Watches worn by Supermodel Cindy Crawford
From actresses to sporting personalities and beyond, the gift of Omega is well shared in the world of celebrities, first and foremost, top model and fashion icon throughout the 90´s, and admired up to the present day, Cindy Crawford. Cindy joined the Omega family in 1995, and was chosen for her shared values with the company which include quality, reliability, and strong tradition, all of which you will find when you buy Omega watches.
Nicole Kidman and her Omega Watches
A top rated and Oscar winning actress chosen for her Omega related values is Nicole Kidman, although one of the newer additions to the Omega family, in no way any less important, she has made public appearances for Omega and has been a feature of advertising campaigns. With her challenging and different spirit, Omega can relate to her pioneering personality with ease. All of the mentioned qualities don´t come to the human spirit cheaply, but are all included when you buy Omega watches.
Omega Watches the Sportswomen’s choice
With Omega´s qualities being so detailed and varied the name is carried throughout the world and in to many societies, including sport and it´s personalities. Some familiar names to be invited into the Omega Family of ambassadresses include Ellen Macarthur, the fastest and youngest person to circumnavigate the globe, and also to be awarded the DBE, Dame Commander of British Empire. With the determination and ambition to go beyond anybody’s expectations she has qualities that Omega believes in and delivers themselves, and that you will see upon buying your Omega watch. Stepping back on to dry land, another lady to catch the eye of Omega is Michelle Wie, who was invited into the family in 2006. Michelle, at the age of 10 was the youngest person to qualify for the USGA, before turning professional prior to her 16th birthday in October 2006. Having the ability to combine feminine grace with power and technique, another quality found in the ladies collection of Omega watches.
With the above examples of worldwide known divas, who are some of the Omega family, with different styles and personalities, when you buy your Omega watches, don´t discard cheaply the fact that you are sharing qualities with some of the most popular and glamorous ladies on the planet, who also enjoy the benefits that are there to be shared through buying Omega watches, and having the comfort of quality and style on their wrists.
Omega watches are known for retaining their value for a long time. A big part of this is due to co-axial escapement. Assisted by the success of caliber 2500, Omega developed the first mass-production time-piece that incorporated a coaxial escapement. Invented by George Daniels, a watchmaker from England, and recognized as the most important watch-making advance in recent times. The coaxial escapement virtually eliminates the need for lubrication, which greatly increases precision and the need for maintenance over time.
Radial friction causes less strain on the movement’s parts, as opposed to sliding friction. This in turn results in Omega’s watches being able retain their value for a longer time than their competitors. It also reduces the amount of maintenance the time piece will need to undergo over time to virtually a fraction of watches with other types of movement.
Another factor in Omega watches retaining their value is the quality which they are produced with. Each new Omega movement has to pass extensive standards. The movements are tested in existing Omega watches, and, at the same time, various lab examinations are conducted to verify the movement’s ability to resist temperature, shock and vibration. The precision of the movement is also tested. Along with this, when a new case has been produced, it is subjected to various tests as well. The decision on whether to manufacture a new case is only taken if the new prototype passes all tests assuring great quality.
Omega watches are heavily sought after time pieces due to the company’s thorough advertising campaigns, and endorsement of major worl wide athletic competitions, such as the Olympics. By participating in massive marketing campaigns that drive sales, the Omega brand is has a universal perception of quality, precision and design.
The benefits of investing in Omega watches are plentiful. For one, after the severe financial crisis of 1975 to 1980, their debt was bought by banks in 1981. Switzerland’s other watch-making giant Allgemeine Schweizerische Uhrenindustrie AG (ASUAG) was similarly saved a year later.
In 1983 the Holding ASUAG-SSIH was established, after significant downsizing, as well as the reformation of R&D. The new company achieved quick success and substantial growth. It is now considered one of the largest watch companies in the world. In 1998 the company changed its name to Swatch Group. It now owns Blancpain and Breguet. Although the company diversified over the years, its leading brand is still considered to be OMEGA.