Buying an Omega

[Alcan]

I have an itch to buy another watch. Looking at the Omega line. I've seen Speedmaster Professional and Speedmaster Automatic, and different calibers of the Professional. Anyone care to give me the Readers' Digest primer on Omega's?

[roadcarver]

You can read through these...

http://home.xnet.com/~cmaddox/tzof_faq.html

http://home.xnet.com/~cmaddox/tzof_links.html

I have an Omega SMP 2531.80 and I love it. The bond bracelet is very comfortable. If you recall, I also had a PO but sold it since I was buying a Van.

I have another Omega on the way - one that I gave up to get my Breitling, but it is on its way back to me :cheers:

[G.J]

Hmm, If I had to choose between the Pro and the reduced, I would go for the Pro, no question about it.

Here take a look over here: http://www.speedmaster-mission.net/

One of the best sites about Speedies..:thumbsup:

[C.J.]

Al, I've had a few Omegas and I just can't think of one bad thing to say about them. Honestly, if I could only have one watch for the rest of my life, it would probably be an SMP :cheers:

[mike]

Al,

In the Speedmaster line the Pro is my pick. Tough as nails and a lot of history. I have a vintage model with an 861 movement that is crazy accurate.

I prefer the hesalite crystal but it doescome in sapphire.

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/8376/speedmaster50ye7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

In the diver's models there are several versions I've had experience with. The Bond SMP is a striking watch (and can be had in a GMT style) Mine was a +1 sec. a day watch.
I have a 2254 now and just love it. The lume is fantastic and I prefer the Gladiator hands.

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/6829/1555592xb8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

The only rub I have with the SMP line is the bezel is harder to turn with wet or gloved hands that the coin edge of the PO line.

If you want a heavier piece that sits up higher the PO has a lot going for it. I had one but sold it to help fund some old Rolex LOL!

[haakon59]

Omega makes a high quality watch. Value or bang for the buck is very high. In some forums there has been discussion that Omega automatic chronographs, using the Piguet 33xx series of movements have trouble with reliability/stopping. When presented with these watches Omega has offered to fix them for free, even when out of warranty. Although I can't say this with certainty because I don't work at Omega, my guess is that this issue no longer is a factor and has been solved. The Speedmaster "Moonwatch" which has the hand wound movement has always been extremely reliable. I personally have never had a single problem with my Omegas--they are accurate, durable, long lasting, and stylish. I think they are one of the best values out there. Frankly, I know quite a few people who own Omega, both older and newer models, and not a single person I know has had anything but the best experience with this brand. Best of luck to you. I think that many collectors think of the hand wound Speedmaster "Moon" watch as being the most collectible from a "historical" perspective and Omega has been producing this model for about 50 years now. :cheers:

[Subfiend]

I have three Speedy Pros, two vintage and one modern. I have sold two Automatics because I thought they were too small for me. Great watch, but 40 mm is what I prefer.

FYI, the new Omegas lose their initial value pretty quickly, so look for a good discount.

[G.J]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b280/hiethaar/groupshot/DSCF0009.jpg

[Alcan]

Thanks for all the info, guys.:cheers:

The links you supplied will keep me busy reading for a while! :rofl:

[Blue Bull]

Had a serious look at Omega's.The only one I ended up considering was the SMP "Moonwatch".However,since I get the same discount on Rolex and Omega(The same AD),Rolex just proved a much better buy.I decided on the white dial Expl II 16570 to ad to my Rolex collection.Very glad I did.I love this watch !! :cheers:

[Alex Stylianou]

Congrats

[President]

Congrats

:thinking:

[scotw]

Well I have both the black SMP and the Speedy and I just love the Speedy, so I'd recommend the Pro 3570.50. Personally I think it looks better in the Crystal, but the display back is fantastic so you can either retro fit one, or buy a pre-loved 3573.50.

Either way, you'll get a great watch!

[leopardprey]

In many ways I would say a OMega SMP or Speedmaster is better than a Rolex:

1. Cost about 40% less.

2. Better fit and finish

3. Better designed bracelet and clasp

4. Better lumination of hands and dial

In terms of movement, I would say they are both about equal in terms of reliability.

Rolex will hold it's value better.

I wore an Omega SMP for 3 years trhough some very harsh environments. Security Operations in Iraq, travel throughout Asia, DOS shooting schools, etc.. Never had an issue. Gave the watch to my brother several months ago, who is going through a very physically demanding federal law enforcement training program and the watch is holding up great for him as well. I do really miss the watch. And truth be told, if I had to do it all over again, even though I really enjoy my Rolex watches and other watches in my collection, would have just bought a couple of new OMegas.

The SMP, Planet Oceans, and Speedmasters, and the Railmasters are fine watches!

[leopardprey]

G. J. :

Here take a look over here: http://www.speedmaster-mission.net/

Thanls for that link. One of the best Watch sites I have seen. Everything you ever wanted to know about the speedmaster. have to get the professional with the see through back. The movement is really nice looking!

[Alcan]

Here take a look over here: http://www.speedmaster-mission.net/

One of the best sites about Speedies..:thumbsup:

I'll second what Chad said. The History button gives great info. Thanks! :cheers:

[leopardprey]

Alcan,

If I was you, I would get the Speedmaster Professional Manual wind with the see through back. It is really stunning to see the movement. No rotar to get in the way of seeing the movement. Be a real nice compliment to your Sub.

[Alcan]

Alcan,

If I was you, I would get the Speedmaster Professional Manual wind with the see through back. It is really stunning to see the movement. No rotar to get in the way of seeing the movement. Be a real nice compliment to your Sub.

I think I'm leaning that way. Besides, I already have more automatics than winders. :rofl: :cheers:

[kingblackbolt]

Al,

If you need someone to shop with you just let me know I know a good place in Woodbridge which gives some pretty good discounts... of course you'd have to take me out on that boat of yours as a trade!

:lol: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[G.J]

:agree: :agree: :agree: :agree: :agree: :agree: :agree: :agree: :agree:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b280/hiethaar/Pre%20pro%20serviced/DSCF0037.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b280/hiethaar/Pre%20pro%20serviced/DSCF0031.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b280/hiethaar/Pre%20pro%20serviced/DSCF0028.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b280/hiethaar/Pre%20pro%20serviced/DSCF0054.jpg

:thumbsup:

[C.J.]

Does anyone here know if you can get a Speedy pro with hesalite crystal and a see through display back?

[JJ Irani]

Does anyone here know if you can get a Speedy pro with hesalite crystal and a see through display back?

No!! :agree: :agree: :agree:

[G.J]

Yep, there is a hesalite front and sapphire back.
I happen to own two of them..:thumbsup:
A cal.321 and a cal.861

There is also the sapphire sandwich, nice and heavy..:thumbsup:
I don't have one of these..:thinking:

[C.J.]

Yep, there is a hesalite front and sapphire back.
I happen to own two of them..:thumbsup:
A cal.321 and a cal.861

There is also the sapphire sandwich, nice and heavy..:thumbsup:
I don't have one of these..:thinking:

Really? That's awesome. Thanks, GJ. Can you tell me the model numbers? The only Omega dealer I have in the area is Tourneau and I can't stand even walking in there, let along talking to them and I can't find it on the Omega website.

[G.J]

http://www.omega.ch/index.php?id=303&details=1&ref=35725000&no_cache=1

Discontinued, so you have to buy pre-loved i am afraid..

http://www.omega.ch/index.php?id=303&details=1&ref=35735000&no_cache=1

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[C.J.]

http://www.omega.ch/index.php?id=303&details=1&ref=35725000&no_cache=1

Discontinued, so you have to buy pre-loved i am afraid..

http://www.omega.ch/index.php?id=303&details=1&ref=35735000&no_cache=1

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Thanks, G.J., very much :cheers:

[G.J]

You are welcome..:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[G.J]

Here a shot of my Hesalite/Sapphire..Speedy

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b280/hiethaar/Speedy%20display/6aa744c4.jpg

[ck867]

not to be rude and go off topic but has anyone purchased an omega watch from alan furman? I havent heard of anyone talking about omega watches from them yet?

[JJ Irani]

not to be rude and go off topic but has anyone purchased an omega watch from alan furman? I havent heard of anyone talking about omega watches from them yet?

I guess if they can be relied upon for their Rolex stuff, I don't think there should be a problem with any of their other brands.

JJ

[Ragu]

here's one that I've been looking at and is "stunning". :thumbsup:

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o56/ragu02/WhtSMlume.jpg

[roadcarver]

There's a speedy on sale at this site...

http://findwatches.googlepages.com/

I ordered my watch from him - he's from TZ.

[MotoLiam]

here's one that I've been looking at and is "stunning". :thumbsup:

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o56/ragu02/WhtSMlume.jpg

I agree, the wavy dial and white face really bring this dial to life! I've read some great reviews about this watch (which I'm seriously considering in the future), and I've enjoyed everything I've heard or seen about it thus far. While I haven't handled one in person, things like This Review (http://www.time2watch.net/SeamasterGMTreview.htm) have really got me itching to see one in the flesh. Plus, I am hankering for more dial lume, which this should provide in spades compared to my GMT ll. Actually, I'm also thinking about a EXP ll, white face, but I'd have to do something to the bezel (like polish it), and the more I think about the EXP's, the more I end up thinking that they're somewhat of a neutered (no offense) GMT. I really enjoy being able to spin the bezel and track multiple countries, especially with my line of work, and with the EXP's I'd have to start memorizing even more numbers, haha. Just to keep it Rolexy in my collection, I'm also scouting for an LV Sub, just so I'd have another option with better hands and lume. Crazy frankenwatch ideas run through my head whenever I see something like a maxi dial and fat hands, and I wonder if I should just mutate my GMT, hahaha. I like that with the LV I can still run a black bezel if I wanted to, without too much difficulty, and who knows, maybe the green would totally blow me away in real life. But back to Omegas.

I think the Omegas are rock solid watches (from friends and reviews), and although I'd never owned one, the only thing really holding me back is their relationship with Swatch. How i wish they were more independent from the monolithic Swatch Group. (http://www.swatchgroup.com/brands/brands.php)

[leopardprey]

That is one nice Omega GMT! Have not seen that white face version in the stores or catalogs? Is it still produced/for sale?

You will definately see the Lum much better on the Omega than the white face Exp II. And the bracelet will be a much better fit.