Omega watches: buying guide
Omega offers some of the best value in Swiss luxury watches, with deep heritage in space, Olympic timing and diving.
Founded
1848
Based in
Biel/Bienne, Switzerland
Typical UK second-hand price
£1,000–£30,000+
Heritage
Founded by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds. The Speedmaster was qualified by NASA in 1965 and worn on the Moon in 1969. Omega introduced the Co-Axial escapement and Master Chronometer certification.
Iconic Omega models
Speedmaster Professional
Introduced 1957 · £3,500–£15,000+
The 'Moonwatch', a manual-wind chronograph and Omega's most famous model.
Seamaster Diver 300M
Introduced 1993 · £1,500–£5,000
The James Bond diver with a wave-pattern dial and helium escape valve.
Constellation
Introduced 1952 · £800–£5,000
Omega's chronometer dress watch, recognisable by its observatory caseback and 'claws' on later models.
Vintage and collectible pieces
Pre-moon Speedmasters (calibre 321) and vintage Seamaster and Constellation 'pie-pan' dials are highly collectible.
Authentication and provenance
Serial number: Engraved on the movement and sometimes between the lugs or on the caseback.
What a full set includes: Box, warranty card, chronometer certificate where applicable, and service papers.
Warning signs:
- Wrong font on 'Speedmaster Professional' text.
- Caseback engraving that is shallow or blurry.
- Display caseback on a model that should be solid.
JewelleryTrader does not authenticate watches. Always have a high-value watch checked by an independent watchmaker or the brand before paying.
Frequently asked questions
Is a vintage Omega a good buy?
Yes, if it has an original dial and a known service history. Refinished dials reduce value significantly.
What makes the Speedmaster famous?
It was qualified by NASA and worn on the Moon in 1969.
Buying or selling a Omega watch?
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