zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

Hi Derek,

I have a few general questions regarding Omega. Actually, the Seamaster-Chrono in particular.

1) Are Omega watches built by hand, or machine made? Hand built?

2) Is the Valjoux 7750 Chronograph movement modified at all for Omega specs, or is it rather "out of the box."

3) Does Omega build their watches all in one place, or are the major components sub-contracted--so to speak?

4) I've heard that Omega isn't the watch company it used to be. I don't know if this is true or not, but could you help clear the air as to what Omega still designs, fabricates & builds, and what [if anything] is sent out to other companies to complete? Kind of a more detailed question #3.

5) You know I am comparing the Rolex w/ the Omega. My problem is deciding which to go with. I know you stated that both watches are excellent choices, but I still cannot seem to decide. I have owned a Seamaster before, and have owned a Rolex, so this shouldn't be a hard task. The problem is deciding which watch brand to return to. I have people tell me Rolex sucks. Then again, I have people tell me Omega sucks. Sometimes I find it very hard to find objective advice or information through all the subjective context that flows into these forums. I don't collect, nor do I have any extensive knowledge about watches. I just love them, and when I am looking to buy one, I become VERY analytical as to quality, value, reliability, design, appeal, originality, innovation, etc... I know you have owned both watch brand before. In fact, you probably own both watch brands now, so I ask you for some objective advice. What can I ask myself [or research] that will enable me to make a decision? Another reason for the hard analysis is because once I do purchase a watch, I want to be certain I will want to keep it forever. Frankly, I am getting a little sick of going through "watch phases."

Thanks,
Brent Schultz