Omega Constellation - Watch Repair
Vintage Omega Constellation - Watch Repair
Case ref 168.017SP
A very nice Omega Constellation Chronometer officially certified came in recently for a big restoration and repair. It had been many years since it had worked properly. The timekeeping was off, the amplitude was well below 200 degrees, the glass was cracked, the date wouldn’t change and the automatic pinions were worn.
I discussed with the customer all the different options and how best to restore it to its former glory. We opted to not polish refinish the case as it had a nice patina. The dial was in good condition aside from a few marks from some sloppy watchmakers. You have to remember that this watch was made back in the 1960’s, and for a dial to be this nice and still in reasonable/ good condition is a small miracle.
What was great about this repair is that the watch previously belonged to the customer’s father, and she had now decided to give it to her daughter as a present. It’s great to see watches that are kept in the family for generations, and it is a true testament to the quality movements in these watches that they are able to do so. The 550 series movement were made robust and built to last. The layout and movement construction made sense.
To complete the repair, numerous parts including a new barrel arbor bush, center seconds pinion, date jumper, mainspring, glass, crown, back seal escape were needed. All in all the watch came up really well and should serve the new owner well for many years to come, and maybe even to pass on again. I’ve included some pictures below of how nice this one ended up looking! Wouldn’t you be happy to receive this as a gift from your parents?
Regular maintenance every 5 to 7 years will ensure that your beloved family heirloom will stay in good working order and will avoid nasty restoration bills if it’s left neglected and not taken care of.
If you have a vintage Omega that you would like repaired feel free to reach out to me repairs@obrhorology.com.au or pop in if you live in South Australia.
