zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

The only thing I'd add to this is pricing, and of that I'm not rock-solid. In two separate conversations w/ salesmen w/ my AD, I've heard $100 and $160 as "costs to replace the battery and re-seal watch to Omega standard."

I'd be more comfortable w/ Authorized Service Center numbers, and if I come up w/ them at some point, I'll share them.

But, going w/ the AD numbers, and figuring a battery replacement every 2 years (again, I'm told that the 2541.80 tends to be a bit hard on batteries -- which I have not confirmed beyond my AD), then a quartz would have 2.5 "servicings" for every 1 2531.80 servicing.

Calculate: $100 x 2.5 = $250 low-end
Calculate: $160 x 2.5 = $400 high-end

Versus, as John said, $290 to $300 for the chronometer (I have confirmed these numbers w/ two Authorized Service Centers).

Even if it's the high-end number, you're probably still ahead based on lower acquisition costs.

Otherwise, I've been told you have to be more careful about getting the quartz wet, but more careful jarring the chronometer. The quartz is great if you don't wear it every day, and want it ready to go at a moment's notice when you do; the chronometer is less likely to let you down if you are on a longer trip and forgot to check the battery life, as it runs on your motion.

I own two Seamasters, both are automatics.