zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: Hi Dan,

: To answer your questions: 1) The older models
: came with the hardback instruction manuals.
: Omega switched to the paperback version in
: early 2005 as I recall. This is the one with
: the color picture on the front.

: 2) The globe/star symbol etched into the
: caseback doesn't mean anything. It was put
: on some of the newer 2531.80 pieces
: beginning in 2004 as I recall. However,
: Omega has never explained WHY they put this
: symbol there. It could have been as a QC
: measure or as a counterfeitting deterrent.
: Since not all genuine 2531.80's have this
: symbol, its presence or absence is not
: important. However, if this symbol is
: present then you can be sure it is one of
: the newer pieces. My 2531.80 from 2002 does
: not have this symbol on it.

: 3) Yes, the Seamaster box is the red leather
: one. A new watch should come with a white
: outer box, red leather inner box, white card
: holder, 3 cards (warranty, pictograms, and
: chronometer certificate), instruction
: manual, and price "hang tag".

: Good luck in your decision,
: John

The 2531.80 is a great watch and I have had mine for one year now and I love it. My SMP does have the "Omega globe" on it as I specifically asked the AD I bought it from for a SMP with the engraving, mainly because I liked it so much.
Like CajunMike said, buy from an AD, there are to many shady pieces out there, and if you post for some AD help, people will be ver helful.
I have included a picture to show you what all is included in the 2531.80 purchase (at least with mine from an AD about a year ago) and this should help to illustrate what John and Mike were talking about.