zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: He said that you can
: get the SMP movement on the timezone
: "toolshop" for $98.

That is correct for the base ETA movement before Omega's custom modifications. SURPRISE! The value of most watches does NOT come from the movement!

That really should not be surprising--the engine in a $20,000 to 50,000 car costs $500-1,500. The paper a highly expensive collectible Mickey Mantle baseball card or first edition Superman comic costs under a penny.

It is rather like the old joke about the repairman who comes in to fix a large factory machine. He studies the problem for a moment, then presses one button and suddenly everything is fine. When the customer complains about the $500 fee he charges for the service, he itemizes his invoice as:

Pressing one button............. $  1.00

Knowing which button to press... $499.00

Similarly, Omega and other fine watchmakers add a number of other qualities to the tangible pieces of a $50 movement, a $5 lump of steel, and a $10 sapphire crystal when they turn it into a fine watch under their name. While these qualities are not always immediately apparent, you will quickly realize the effort they require should you ever try building an identical piece and selling it for a comparable price.

The uniqueness and well though out design, fine craftsmanship, quality control, name recognition, reputation, and support network are only part of these less obvious value enhancements to the seemingly simple combination of $65 worth of basic parts and materials.