BEST ONLINE VIDEO ON BUYING YOUR FIRST VINTAGE WATCH - PROFESSIONAL TIPS!

[@pe4153]

You can tell he's a true collector by the condition of his collection.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Many thanks! I like my stuff to look great which is why what I have for sale on my site are all outstanding examples as well.

[@fylke1814]

Redials!!!

[@rochester212]

True. For instance, most of my collection is garbage.

[@retroUkraine]

@@rochester212 Any item can be a collection if the owner knows their history. Even cheap old Chinese imitations can also be a collection, as this is part of watchmaking. But a ton of gold bars of the same type is expensive, but it is not a collection.

[@esfwr17]

I am certainly glad i took my time when looking for my first vintage Omega. While on vacation, I found one in a shop that was WAY overpriced, had an obvious redial (though i didnt notice at the time), and had an aftermarket crown, among other things. That watch stuck in the back of my head, and i almost went back to the shop twice during the vacation to get it, but ultimately passed on it (thankfully). I did get the shops name/number and took several pictures of the watch, in case i ended up wanting to have it shipped. I came back home, took my time researching it, and realized all of the things that were incorrect on it. I waited about 8-9 months, and finally found a watch that was perfect. Extremely thankful that i was patient and didnt rush to purchase. Moral of the story, I would always suggest to take as many pictures as you can, go home, do research on it, then make your decision then.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you for sharing. Patience is definitely vital when it comes to buying a vintage watch. Take your time to do plenty of research and comparison to fully understand what you are about to buy. I would say 80% of so-called "Omega specialists" are not really specialists. So you really cannot take their words and why I am not on the Omega forums. Too many of these so-called specialists. Very stubborn and won't listen.

[@SergeiTheAnarch]

I would have added a section on "frankenwatches". Watches which are somewhat correct but have swapped dials, hands, crowns, and sometimes even entire movements. This is extremely common for Eastern Bloc watches as almost all sizes for movements were standardized within and sometimes between brands. This can make Eastern Bloc watches very cool to customize but almost impossible to find in original configuration.

[@extremejoy]

Silly Bearpunch…Trix are for kids & everybody knows there’s no “Frankenstein” when it comes to Omega…😒🤣

[@jeff_desir]

Great video! I just bought my first vintage automatic at 33yo, and I feel more confident after watching this. I want to buy watchmaker tools and a clone 2824-2 or two from China so I can learn. Timepieces are really timeless and fascinating, look at the digital world we live in today and still a bunch of us are just getting into mechanical watches... I wish I had got into the hobby before when I was younger...

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you for sharing! I did make a video on watch tool if you go through my past video. But those are basic tools. Certain tools I recommend that you stick to Swiss quality to get the job done correctly.

[@dannysimenauer5745]

The most important point I learned is to find a seller who knows the brand he is selling and can be trusted. There is no way, unless you spend countless hours learning about a specific model and have handled many watches, that I could ever know enough how original a vintage watch really is. Thanks for making this video and showing us you really know vintage Omega watches! I will definitely reach out when I am ready to buy a vintage Omega.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

👍

[@rodsalvador3608]

Sooo...basically the hours it would take for me to accumulate this wealth of knowledge is far greater than just buying from an honest dealer who will give you the real goods from the get go. Saving a few hundred bucks on what could be a franken-watch is not a good use of my time for a watch I will buy only once? Great video again! Thanks.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

That would be up to you bud. How would you know if a dealer is honest? Majority only started the business maybe 3-5 years ago. And if a dealer sell all sort of brands, do you think they can be an expert? There are good dealers out there, but best to put some effort to self education. It is part of the fun for a lot people who are looking to buy an old watch.

[@Dankyjrthethird]

Thanks Omega Enthusiast you’re the best 🙏

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're very welcome!

[@dennisallport5704]

Now this is a video many folks need to see! Thanks for sharing your experience and expertise.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you! Unfortunately, only those who have found me on KZbin will get to learn all of these knowledge for free.

[@duncanmiller7638]

Many gems here. I Enjoyed the tired watch spring as best.

[@micosan]

I just bought my first watch! A gorgeous Omega Geneve 136.102 from 1972. I probably overpaid and rushed and got scammed. but it looks great! And has recently been serviced.

[@factorybear5264]

I collect as well. I have several vintage pieces that are in fantastic shape that I only wear occasionally, but my favorite vintage watches have obvious wear and show their age, so I’m not afraid to daily it.

[@paulschumacker9901]

Many thanks for an informative video tutorial! Another thing to look out for is a vintage watch missing the crown and stem, and sold “as is”. You might think this is a bargain- just need to source the new parts. But sometimes the movement does not belong to the case, and the case tube doesn’t line up with the keyless works. So you end up with a movement with no case, and a case with no movement. Definitely a long long project!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Now you getting very technical. Haha. But very good and thank you for sharing. Best to buy a complete watch in great shape. You’ll be a happy owner for years to come.

[@zillsburyy1]

nothing gets past OE. he is a sharp customer

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You can be too! 😉

[@baoloc1160]

WOW and Thank You are only words i can say now to express my thankfulness for your educational video. Hope one day I will be able to add Omega Vintage to my collection.

[@carlavale6953]

You have a beautiful collection, congrats! I love watches and I really appreciate your content!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you so much!

[@Theo-ul8qm]

I really like how in-depth you go in this video! Just to add some of my views - personally, I don't mind case refinishing as much as I dial refinishing. I think that as long as the case looks good, and retains its original shape, I may still consider buying the watch. If it's been polished so well that I can't tell it's been polished, I'm happy with that case. However, dial refinishing is a dealbreaker for me. I don't see myself ever buying a watch with a refinished dial. The main reason for this is that it really diminishes the value of the watch. In addition, refinishing, most of time time, looks like refinishing. It doesn't match the overall condition of an old watch.

[@lucguillemette8280]

Incredibly informative. If I ever have to make recommendations for someone buying their fist vintage time piece, I will send them this.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

I very happy to hear that. Hope this video will get well spread and help many who are new into the hobby.

[@ponyboy1664]

Perfect video at a perfect time. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. I'm looking at a 1960s Constellation and this video has been very useful. Have a 👍🏼

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you for the comment. You should watch a few episodes in the “constellation” playlist. You’ll get to learn more about vintage 1960s Constellation.

[@freddytrejo3613]

As a small collector myself I have a few nice timepieces but nothing as classic and timeless as yours very nice

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you kindly

[@jen7662]

This is a great jumping off point for me. I do not have the money to invest in high quality watches but I’ll start my path at the thrift store.

[@zahariastoianovici8590]

Very interesting and informative! Thank you.

[@pyaesoe9206]

Very appreciate for your time and effort putting in this video! I always support your videos on you tube and posts on Instagram. I myself own 2 vintage omega watches and I love them so much.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

YOu're very welcome! Thank you for your support and take good care of your Omega watches. :-)

[@flhxri]

I found a seamaster in a watch grab bag at a salvation army :)

[@opfnorfolk588]

Congrats mate! We are all hoping to find some treasure amongst the crud!

[@saadahmad5779]

Please show us...

[@opfnorfolk588]

Please don't, I found a Omega quartz De ville gold plated watch head in a mixed bag of watches I bought from auction for a 10er. Popped a battery in and worked. That was my first ever omega and is probably responsible for my addiction to this date 🤪

[@FalseTeeth-o4y]

So you took it back and told them you'd found a valuable watch in their bag of cheap watches? I mean, you wouldn't want to scam a charity, would you?

[@hledanymuz8079]

“And remember.., knowledge is the key”

[@matteopisanu7372]

I just came across this video as I am looking info about my grand father watch that I found after he passed away. The watch is an Omega from 1967 unfortunately is not running and I spotted some replaced parts. I am not an expert but wanted to bring the watch to his original state. Thanks for your video so many interesting tips re watches "badly" fixed

[@jadedarby7290]

Woooow, This is a most see. Lv all your videos, but is the best for beginners (and me).... This is why I only buy my watches from OE! All watches totally authentic and run absolutely perfect, lv every watch I have bought from you.... YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you! I am always happy to assist you! I'm glad this video is getting more attraction and attention. Some of the steps I point out in this video is common sense, but a lot of people tense to skip it.

[@ricardochaveste7367]

Thank you for sharing your experiences with vintages pieces, very impressive little little details about ownership of your new vintage piece, i had made multiple mistakes owning my first vintage pieces, so i Thank you for taking the time to educate me, now i own several vintage pieces..im also new to your channel,all way from St George Utah, viva watch making, looking forward in the future to own one your vintages pieces, but for now I'll keep watching..until next episode..my friend im focusing on Gruen Curvex watches and many other's..

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you for the comment. Gruen Curvex is a beautiful watch. There are many models, so it can be difficult to choose a favourite.

[@jesuscasado4277]

The last part of the video is extremely useful!! I was considering asking for a mineral crystal replacement on my omega. But it makes totally sense using acrylic crystal. And it actually looks better. Thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ashok5591]

❤I liked it. I shall again watch. I am enthused that you have a huge collection of watches.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you for watching! Enjoy!

[@johnjenin3279]

Very informative and entertaining. Thank you for your time in making the video.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@timebyraf]

I am very, very thankful for this video! Buying vintage watches is really something else in terms of needed knowledge, but it just makes so much more fun to search them! Thanks for everything my friend!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Very happy to hear your feedback and many many thanks!

[@joelradasa3360]

Very informative

[@Cbey2121]

Thank You so much for your advice! It was so thorough that I now understand what to look for with extreme precision! I actually noticed that one of my vintage Omegas, a Geneve with a sky-blue dial (ref. 166.0173)had actually had the corners polished down. I am not sure how much it affects the value but honestly I still am very happy with it especially since sky blue/Tiffany blue dials are trending this year.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Happy to hear that. I believe I still have one like your as well. Take good care of it. It's a very nice watch. 166 should make your watch the automatic version.

[@nicklegg61]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@santfournier]

That’s an amazingly beautiful watch! Omega black dial with moonphase! Damn....

[@Jeepsteve1982]

This is a great video. Thank you so much.

[@robertgoidel]

Excellent video of explanation of watches be they Omega, LeCoultre, or other makes, your presentation was very helpful and your explanation was just perfect. Thank you!

[@mpferket]

Fantastic video! Thanks, Omega Enthusiast!

[@DavidBrown-xn2pg]

Thabks for the awesome video! I learned so much to look at on the Seamaster I'm thinking of...

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're more than welcome.

[@marc4grace]

Thank you very much for your sharing.

[@christopherwarren4719]

Extremely informative video. Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you! I think it's about time for someone to make informative video.

[@funhog24]

very nice video! I will be having my father's bumper movement Omega tuned up soon! Your videos will help me with future purchases!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you very much! And your father will be very pleased to have his watch working again!

[@minhdang5954]

yes I’m planning to buy my first vintage watch and this video save me alot on my journey.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Happy to hear that.

[@TheMjphoto45]

Picked up 1953 Bimper automatic Lecoultre and love it

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Nice!

[@plappin]

Terrific video, thank you!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're very welcome!

[@Foxrock321]

I have three Vintage Accutron which have never had a battery put in them..they are definitely safequeens..

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Make sure to only use Renata brand battery when you decide to get one going.

[@earlehotta7755]

Excellent…thank you…all major points in watch selection

[@johngentile6814]

Very well delivered tutorial I need to take another look at my vintage sea master😏

[@jerrycny5519]

Thank you for producing such informative, intelligent, interesting, and detailed content. You have a beautiful, classic collection, you have excellent taste, as your collection is very similar to my own, lol, just larger. I look forward to shopping your store.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Haha, thank you for the comment. It's all good my friend. Your collection may not be as big as mine, but I bet they are also just as beautiful or better. Please take your time and I'll be more than happy to assist you when you're ready.

[@Spenser199]

Very informative video! There are so many flawed vintage pieces on the market. Or maybe I should say most of the vintage pieces on the market have different issues, big or small. Some significantly affect the value some are not as critical. Knowledge / experience is the key to spot the issues. That's why we need your expertise :)

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Many thanks my friend! I think it's about time that we need to see more of these kind of videos, getting to the point instead of pointing out what is good to buy etc... You'll need to first understand the product that you are about to invest into. I can always tell someone to go and buy a Constellation with caliber 561 movement, but if he/she select one that is not properly serviced, it's going to be a bad purchase.

[@Spenser199]

@@TimelessHistoryChannel Definitely need more videos/articles like this. Getting to know different dial, case, hands, movement combinations is the process of acquiring the knowledge; it usually takes lots of time. If I want to save time and avoid bad purchase, I'll just buy from your site. ;)

[@ronelweiser6866]

Thank You for sharing your collection.

[@marcocaperna923]

Thanks man , very nice and useful video, supporting u from Italy

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you so much! Working on a new video. Hope to get it up soon!

[@alirazasherazi]

Very nice and informative vedio I recently start collecting vintage watches and having a small number of watches, but I will peruse your tips in my next purchase, all the way love from Pakistan

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Happy to hear that and you're more than welcome

[@yusufdavids1897]

Thanks for a very informative video.Info will definitely be very helpful in my future collection of Omega's

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Glad it was helpful! and Thank you for watching!

[@rochester212]

Life hack- How to: first vintage watch. Step 1: acquire face mask and screwdriver. Step 2: rob gradmpa of his watch. Step 3: Congratulations, you now have your first vintage watch.

[@laluta9]

Thank you so much for this💓! I’m going to do more research...I love vintage Omega Seamaster De Villes and want these to be my collection...I want to make sure I approach each piece as thoroughly as possible

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're very welcome. There are many Seamaster Deville case models. Many of the imported models will come in gold filled case and powered by 17 jewels movement only. There are automatic and there are manual wind. Some will have date while some will not. And some will have regular date set while those from the later 60s to early 70s will have quick set. And a great place to ask questions is on the Omega forums where there will be many specialists to assist you.

[@laluta9]

You are the best! 🤗

[@matsalam8291]

thank you sir, watching from philippines.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You are very welcome. Happy to hear.

[@kdids]

Thanks for the vid. I've followed you on IG for a while now and look forward to grabbing a watch from you in the near future!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Remember, "DON'T RUSH" :-)

[@enriquezavala7772]

The omega somnolent in some models is in the interior surface of the watch. Ez

[@phmwu7368]

12:30 what's the setting in the lower subdial... stuck hour subdial hand ? 19:20 try to buy a Speedmaster that comes on a time-period correct steel bracelet instead of leather strap

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

The center long second is the second timer, to the right is the minute, and the bottom is the hour timer. The left sub dial is the regular second hand. Actually, I like my speedmaster to be worn on a strap. Personal preferences especially for someone with a smaller size wrist.

[@thomascrownrg]

Thank You!

[@lithiumstatic]

You're video was very helpful! Thank you!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Always happy to hear that. Thank you for watching!

[@nick540]

Great video. Thanks for your knowledge!

[@leebalmforth2269]

I really like your videos. They are aways informative. I'm still looking for the right omega.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Many thanks! Follow the first 8 steps from this video. That will help you narrow down your selection.

[@leebalmforth2269]

@@TimelessHistoryChannel very helpful. Best regards lee

[@factorybear5264]

I love your Gay Freres bamboo ladder bracelets. Pure class man!

[@victoraguila625]

Thank you.

[@stevebrown7207]

Awesome video! If I am in Toronto anytime soon, I will be visiting you.

[@hon1832]

Thank you for this, really looking to get into vintage watches. What model is that Patek Philippe at the start? Absolutely breathtaking. Thanks again!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You can learn more about this Patek from this episode: BUYING A PATEK PHILIPPE GOING TO BREAK MY BANK ACCOUNT? kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWTHeIyCaJ1-o8U

[@GreySectoid]

Stunning collection!

[@KPD6778]

Another great video. Thank you. Learning all the time.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thanks for watching!

[@eduardoreyes909]

Thank you. This was a very educational video and i learned a lot. Maybe too specific, but i would love to see more of your 168.017 and similar constellation references.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You can learn everything about the C case Constellation including the 168.017 reference here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIGxfYRjZpVorbM

[@cweeks5211]

Fantastic! Thank you so much!

[@nunyabizness199]

Truely wonderful collection...

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Glad you like it

[@mikerotch6068]

That all gold omega constellation looks like butterscotch candy and I want it more

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

haha

[@LEIF_10119]

Great Video 🤩

[@conniemoulin9979]

Vintage Watch are good..

[@JosephAnthonyJosefius]

Outstanding video, looking at your Omega watches on your site. I will start saving :)

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Much appreciated! Please take your time. I'll be more than happy to assist you when the time comes.

[@oldvetwhotravels.5326]

Awesome video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Beautiful collection Sir.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You’re welcome. And thank you for watching. I hope you learned a lot from this video. :)

[@oldvetwhotravels.5326]

I did Sir. Thank you again.

[@khalidalamri127]

thank you it's not enough but l am grateful Man l can't find the world

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're more than welcome. :-D

[@adrianlazar3471]

Thanks for the educational video and earlier advice OmegaEnthusiast! :)

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're very welcome!

[@willtothewong]

Awesome video, thank you.

[@mariotgomez]

Thank you for your educational information .

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're more than welcome

[@richardhui268]

Thanks for your sharing

[@PerpetualTimeLtd]

Excellent video, really enjoyed 👍👍

[@38201270298]

I don't get a point why polishing is evil? What reason makes me feel happy when I see all scratches and dents that has been done not by me? it's not my story or relationship with the watch. it's someone else story. Do I miss something?

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

There is nothing wrong with polishing a watch if you cannot accept the scratches or dings on the case. Especially, if you are buying the watch to keep, then there is no issue with a case polish or even custom modify the case by adding diamonds etc... But if you are someone who is a watch collector who is looking to own a proper preserved vintage timepiece, then you'll want the case to be unpolished. And in case if you plan on reselling your timepiece, the value is much more when the case is unpolished. It is a lot easier to resell an unpolished watch compared to one that has been polished.

[@38201270298]

@@TimelessHistoryChannel Thanks for the answer! Ok, straight to the point. Do you offer that kind of service? I mean if I want clean indices and hands without any signs of oxidation or mold. And new polishing of course.

[@Surge1045]

Great video but I would have loved some examples of “poorly aged dials”.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Unfortunately, I do not buy those. But I believe some of my videos, I do have photo examples of poorly aged dials. A poorly aged dial is usually one that is not evenly aged or one with missing font/paint.

[@Oldtimerider]

Thanks!

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you so much! 😊 🙏

[@artb4700]

Thanks for this informative video. 👍

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Glad to hear that!

[@HoperehabcenterthailandAsia]

thanks I am an Omega collector also

[@TheAngerman77]

Great information 👍🏾

[@Shawk95]

I learned a lot. Thanks.

[@Alex-xt5pi]

Great Video. Could you give some information on the usage of radium in vintage watches, especially Omega. How long did Omega use this material?

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Watch this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHyVdaGFpMqsoMksi=DRLWgIYNnlrowwB2

[@BillyJBailey]

Your knowledge is amazing.

[@mgm3649]

Thanks for the knowledge. Btw I loved your aquascape (I'm a noob with both watches and aquascaping)

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

You're welcome. Like learning watches, it will take time to learn how to properly aquascape. But I am sure you will become very good on both soon!

[@mgm3649]

@@TimelessHistoryChannel Thanks man.

[@fernandoAveledo]

Many thanks for the video. I made several errors that you mentioned and I may repeat them as there are many details to be checked especially if you don't take the time and perform a systematic review. I did not see any comment regarding reviewing the movement and it is also a very important factor. Would you consider rude or improper to take a timegrapher with you and check it prior buying? I would not be looking for perfection you know, but at least to see how the movement is performing. That also can help me to know that I will need to invest more money servicing the watch at once. Again, thanks for giving us a method to review vintage watches (and showing us fantastic timepieces!!!)

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Thank you for the comment Fernando. To be honest, when you plan on buying a watch in as is condition, there is no point to test it on the spot. Regardless, whether it is running accurate or not, it is best to service the watch. Why I need to service all of my watches prior to listing them for sale and provide my lifetime special warranty. This way my clients will never have to worry about expensive future service cost. But I guess, you could test the watch before hand if you choose to as well. Buying one with a decent reading to begin with is better than buying one that has a bad reading.

[@buzzufy]

Great video :) Thank you for the sharing

[@jazzman5598]

Fine vid!

[@Rooney_the_grey_bird]

Great upload buddy 👍 I'm currently looking for a vintage watch to date back to my birth year of 1977, and I have a soft spot for omega, I like the look of the Cal.625 from that particular year, and have seen a few nice examples around the £500 mark. Would you have any advice on the de ville, or anything else you mat think I might like from the 1977 era. Take care buddy, liked & subbed as soon as I seen your KZbin name 😉

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

I must disappoint you, but I would recommend a model pre-1970s for Omega.

[@yeshigyatso7664]

Thanks learn a lot oh canada 🇨🇦

[@michaelcompeau313]

Well done!! Nicely covered.

[@TimelessHistoryChannel]

Glad you liked it!