Counterfeit Watchers Discussion Forum

Gary -

Here are a few thoughts from someone who owns a watch with (what I think to be) a refinished dial.

First, a non-OEM style should and generally does negatively affect the value. Second, I don't think Omega kept records of things like dial colors and styles. In some cases, they Omega exported only the movements, which were then cased locally.

Crowns and straps are "wear" items. If a watch is vintage, and was reasonable used during its life, then it is to be expected that they would wear out and need refurbishing and/or replacement. Most would concede that replacement of these items do not disqualify a watch as original. Collectors seem to be split on dials as wear items.

In my case, I purchased a 1950's Constellation, which was purported to be a recased movement and priced accordingly well below market. Research on the Omega web site showed me that based on the serial number, it was likely (but not definite) that the dial, case and movement were contemporary to each other, but the crown was replaced (which I fixed). Furthermore, no one could confirm if the gold dial was original, an OEM replacement or a redial.

It had an attractive look, so I purchased it and wear it often. A purist would likely not purchase this watch at any price, since it can't be verified as original. Some might go as far to call it a "frankenwatch". But it is as accurate as most modern mechanical watches.

Bottom line is that beauty (and value) is in the eye of the beholder.

Hope this helps,

gatorcpa