So, you’ve decided to start your own Omega watch collection!
Omega, with its rich history, strong brand, and enviable range of iconic models, is one of the top luxury watchmakers in the world. Researching and purchasing these classic watches can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but to make sure you avoid costly mistakes, you’ll need to improve your knowledge of Omega’s products and follow a clear strategy, paying attention to the finer details along the way.
Whether you’re looking to buy these watches for your own personal enjoyment, as an investment, or a combination of both, here are some in-depth tips and advice to help you build your own successful Omega watch collection.
Understanding Omega’s history and the significance of its models is essential for any collector. Omega has been producing watches since 1848 and has been involved in major historical moments, such as:
The first step is to familiarise yourself with these historical contexts, because they will add a deeper level of appreciation to your collection and can also influence the desirability and value of certain pieces.
When starting an Omega collection, it’s a good idea to focus on iconic models that have stood the test of time and have strong historical relevance, like the following:
The Speedmaster, particularly the Speedmaster Professional (Moonwatch), is one of the most iconic watches of all time. Variations like the Speedmaster Reduced or Speedmaster Racing offer equally desirable alternatives if you prefer a different size or style. Special and limited editions (for example, the Apollo 11 anniversary models) are highly sought after by collectors, too.
The Seamaster Diver 300M is the quintessential diver’s watch and has gained even more popularity thanks to its association with James Bond. The Seamaster Planet Ocean offers a more robust, modern take on dive watches with higher water resistance and cutting-edge materials, while the Vintage Seamaster models, especially those from the 1960s and 1970s, are often more affordable and are held in high regard by vintage Omega enthusiasts.
The Constellation is known for its precision and elegant design. Older models from the 1950s-1970s can be found at reasonable prices and are great starting points if you’re particularly interested in dress watches.
A refined dress watch that is often underappreciated in comparison to the Speedmaster and Seamaster lines, the Omega De Ville offers strong value with a beautiful, timeless design. De Ville models also often feature innovative movements like co-axial escapements.
The movement (or calibre) is the heart of any watch, and Omega is known for its technical innovations. Here are some of the key points to understand when evaluating potential Omega purchases:
Introduced in 1999, Omega’s co-axial escapement is a major technical innovation that increases accuracy, reduces friction, and extends the service intervals.
Omega watches with METAS certification (Master Chronometer) undergo rigorous testing for precision, resistance to magnetic fields, and durability. This makes these models particularly appealing to collectors who are focused on high-performance watches.
Vintage Omega watches, especially those manufactured pre-1970s, often feature manual-winding movements, such as the famous Caliber 321 in early Speedmasters. Automatic movements became more common later on.
Vintage Omega watches often come at lower price points compared to modern models, but their condition, originality, and provenance are critical to their value. Look for original dials, hands, and cases, and be cautious of overly polished or altered watches. Research reference numbers and calibers to ensure authenticity and pay special attention to the condition of the movement and
whether the watch has been serviced.
Modern Omega timepieces tend to be more reliable and may feature contemporary technologies like co-axial movements or Master Chronometer certifications. However, bear in mind that they may depreciate faster than vintage models unless they are limited editions or rare models.
The condition of an Omega watch can have a huge bearing on its market value. When evaluating a watch, you’ll need to consider its:
Original, unaltered dials are prized by collectors, even if they have developed patina due to ageing. In fact, in many cases, a replaced dial can significantly decrease a watch’s value.
Avoid watches that have been over-polished, as this can erode the edges and decrease the sharpness of the case.
Watches that have been recently serviced are generally more reliable. However, you will need to double check that the service has not involved replacing original components with aftermarket parts.
Having the original box, papers, and certificates can enhance the value of both vintage and modern watches.
Decide on your budget before you start collecting, as it’s easy to get carried away when starting a new hobby – and be prepared to wait for the right piece to come along.
Watch collecting can be expensive, especially with luxury brands like Omega, but there are models available for different price ranges.
For example, vintage Seamasters or Constellations are often considered good entry-level investments, as they can be found at reasonable prices. Modern Speedmasters and Seamaster Diver 300Ms are mid-range options, while limited editions, gold models, or vintage pieces with historic significance, such as the Omega Speedmaster Caliber 321, might be out of your reach as a new Omega watch collector.
Whether you’re purchasing a new or vintage Omega watch, it’s important to buy from reputable sources. Authorised dealers, reputable online retailers, and established auction houses and vintage dealers are all great places to start.
If you’re looking at watches as a long-term investment, focus on limited-edition models or watches with unique design features. As we mentioned previously, Omega watches with rare dial variations, specific calibres, or those tied to significant historical events tend to appreciate in value more over time.
Luxury watches require regular maintenance, and as a collector, it’s your job to look after your purchases. Factor in the cost of servicing, which typically needs to be done every 5 years, depending on the model and usage (although will need to be considered sooner if the watches are being worn). To maintain the value and functionality of every watch, always make sure you are working with a specialist Omega service centre or watchmaker.
Joining Omega watch collector forums, social media groups, and online communities can provide valuable insights and access to private sales – and these channels provide you with a great way to share your passion with fellow collectors.
By following the advice outlined here and taking the time to research your options, we’re confident you’ll soon build a collection of Omega watches that not only reflects your personal tastes but also carries long-term value. Each Omega watch has been on a journey, and as a collector, you’ll be adding to every story!