zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

Hi all, i'm new to the forum but not new to Omega watches. I have owned a "Bond" style SS seamaster and a two tone model 120 seamaster in the past.

Both have been sold, as i find myself gravitating toward the older 1960's versions of the Constellations. The cal.564 i now own in both a 18K screw back case and a gold top version almost identical in dial and case shape.

Someday i wish to obtain an original dial (for the cal.564 movement) incorporating the large applied gold faceted markers with the large dauphine style hands.......these older growing eyes could use the help and i like that style regardless!

Now.....to my question........has anyone been able to convert one of these screw back versions into a truly waterproof watch? I wonder why no one has come up with a screw down case tube and crown that could be used to strengthen this weak area. (would probably need a custom stem also to allow for the screwing in on the tube) Also, a more massive bezel that would permit the fitting of a better sealed saphire crystal would be a big plus for any lovers of this fine movement and watch! I work with my hands at the jewelry store here and the scratch resistance of a saphire crystal would be a big plus also!

Fact is, in my opinion, the cal.561 and cal.564 (with quickset feature) were THE BEST automatic movements Omega ever made in house, and represent the most bang for the watch enthusiest buck around! (including Rolex from that era!). Sad the in house days are gone (except maybe for the co-axial escapement watches which may be in house movements....not sure).

Anyway, anybody out there ever had this kind of custom work done on theie 60's Constellations?