zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

I recently bought 1960s Omega Seamaster - automatic movement (552) and
stainless steel. From the outside it looks almost mint condition. The
crystal was even Omega signed. I paid £250 for it. The inside looked clean
enough when the back was open.

It was running two minutes slow and, following all the advice received here,
I decided to send it to Swiss Time Services, the UK Omega approved vintage
service agents to see what was wrong.

I got estimate today stating "Rebuild worn and corroded movement and replace
crown to make watertight - £380 plus VAT = £444.

I am now torn between sending it back to seller (who had offered a refund)
or getting the work done.

I really like the look and condition of the watch. It looks every bit as
good as a modern £1,500 Omega (eg Aqua terra) which I would buy if I could
afford it. I feel that if I send it back I will never find such a good
looking watch again.

On the other hand, £700 is a lot to have paid out for a 1960s watch. It
must be in a real mess (presumably water damaged). I don't know whether it
will ever be of original quality after such an extensive repair. And is it
likely to be worth anything like that amount after the work is complete?

In short, my heart wants to keep it, but my head say "no way". Any advice
would be much appreciated!