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CooperBox

macrumors 68000
Do you get a lot of clasp scratches from working on laptops/MacBook Pros?
I think it's inevitable getting watch clasp scratches whilst working on laptops or doing other mundane tasks. With any new watch, whether high-end or 'cheepo', I always apply a layer of clear scotch-tape to the clasp. It's simple and takes only seconds. This can be applied again when the tape shows signs of wear.
 
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CooperBox

macrumors 68000
They go with absolutely everything, and will never look dated.

That is my preferred style of watch, understated, classy, elegant, timeless.

I far prefer this look to the more modern style.
In that case I have something similar which I'm sure you'll also like. ;)

An 'old timer' which has not been worn for many months. I must take a few photos with a brief description. A suivre......
 
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Scepticalscribe

macrumors Haswell
Jul 29, 2008
65,181
47,567
In a coffee shop.
In that case I have something similar which I'm sure you'll also like. ;)

An 'old timer' which has not been worn for many months. I must take a few photos with a brief description. A suivre......
I await with pleasure and look forward to seeing it, and admiring it.

Why not wear it? Those classic watches are gorgeous.

My own Omega is a Deville, an understated delight, which is designed to look like those classic watches from the 50s and 60s, and which I bought nearly 14 years ago, having eyed it longingly for at least three years prior to that.

There are Arabic numerals on the 2,4,6, 8, 10 and 12 positions - whereas, the classic look is one where the numerals are quartered (appearing on the four quadrants - namely, the 3, 6, 9 and 12 positions), a date (on the 3), dauphine hands, and an elegant sweep second hand.

I love it, and have worn it daily since I treated myself to it as a belated Christmas present in January 2010.
 
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CooperBox

macrumors 68000
The post #4,996 above of the Omega motivated me to show this one.
An Omega iconic 'Pie-Pan' Constellation officially certified chronometer, model 2652 5C bumper automatic, with solid 18kt case - the lower of the two shown below.
(It pales in comparison to the upper catalogue photo of a rare and delightfully collectable 1950's gold 'Cosmic' model full calendar moonphase).
OmegaConst1.jpg

This Omega Constellation was the 2nd vintage watch I purchased 20+ years ago (after the IWC described in post #4,836).
I knew very little about watch collecting at that time, and didn't even ask to view the movement beforehand.o_O It seems I was lucky - as it's a gem!

OmegConst1.jpg

The ivory colour honeycomb dial is of the so-called 'Pie-Pan' design. This one has the indices as well as the Omega logo applied in gold, complete with gold dauphine hands. The case is 18kt yellow gold. Some slight discoloration on the dial, which imho compliments the antique look and may attest to the watch as being unrestored - which is always a plus.
The watch is circa 1952, one of the very first legendary 'Constellation' models, so called from the embossed emblem on the caseback which depicts an observatory with 8 stars above it, symbolising Omega's exceptional chronometer timekeeping achievements.

OmegConsl2.jpg


ConstObserv.jpg




OmegConsl.jpg

The Constellation was the flagship wristwatch from Omega in the early 50's, just a few years earlier than the first iconic Speedmaster chronograph in '57.
Like the Speedmaster this is an automatic self-winding movement, but with a significant difference. Modern automatics have a rotor which spin a full 360degrees to wind the mainspring, whilst the bumper rotor moves through 120degrees to bump against a pair of buffer springs on opposite sides. This regular bumping can be felt on the wrist whilst wearing, which gives the not unpleasant feeling that one is truly 'communicating' with the timepiece. You're always reminded that one's wearing a part of horological history!
Bumper movements were in the first automatic wristwatches created by John Harwood and date from the 1920's. It's therefore a myth that Rolex were the inventor of the automatic wristwatch as many tend to believe.
Some of the early Omega Seamasters also had a bumper auto movement, a Cal.351 I believe.
Although somewhat familiar with these movements from my horological library, I had never actually set eyes on mine, so whilst penning this I decided to open her up and take a few photos.
This actual movement is the Cal.354 which has a power reserve of approx 35hrs. Not having been serviced for over 25 years and thus lacking efficient lubrication, it's very rarely worn as this would accelerate internal wear. For these brief photos however it still runs extremely well, although no longer within COSC limits.

OmegaBumper.jpg BumperMov2.jpg

A final on-the-wrist photo.
OmegaConst3.jpg
 
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Scepticalscribe

macrumors Haswell
Jul 29, 2008
65,181
47,567
In a coffee shop.
The post #4,996 above of the Omega motivated me to show this one.
An Omega iconic 'Pie-Pan' Constellation officially certified chronometer, model 2652 5C bumper automatic, with solid 18kt case - the lower of the two shown below.
(It pales in comparison to the upper catalogue photo of a rare and delighfully collectable 1950's gold 'Cosmic' model full calendar moonphase).
View attachment 2236723

This Omega Constellation was the 2nd vintage watch I purchased 20+ years ago (after the IWC described in post #4,836).
I knew very little about watch collecting at that time, and didn't even ask to view the movement beforehand.o_O It seems I was lucky - as it's a gem!

View attachment 2236936

The ivory colour honeycomb dial is of the so-called 'Pie-Pan' design. This one has the indices as well as the Omega logo applied in gold, complete with gold dauphine hands. The case is 18kt yellow gold. Some slight discoloration on the dial, which imho compliments the antique look and may attest to the watch as being unrestored - which is always a plus.
The watch is circa 1952, one of the very first legendary 'Constellation' models, so called from the embossed emblem on the caseback which depicts an observatory with 8 stars above it, symbolising Omega's exceptional chronometer timekeeping achievements.

View attachment 2237057


View attachment 2236945



View attachment 2237031

The Constellation was the flagship wristwatch from Omega in the early 50's, just a few years earlier than the first iconic Speedmaster chronograph in '57.
Like the Speedmaster this is an automatic self-winding movement, but with a significant difference. Modern automatics have a rotor which spin a full 360degrees to wind the mainspring, whilst the bumper rotor moves through 120degrees to bump against a pair of buffer springs on opposite sides. This regular bumping can be felt on the wrist whilst wearing, which gives the not unpleasant feeling that one is truly 'communicating' with the timepiece. You're always reminded that you're wearing a part of horological history!
Bumper movements were in the first automatic wristwatches created by John Harwood and date from the 1920's. It's therefore a myth that Rolex were the inventor of the automatic wristwatch as many tend to believe.
Some of the early Omega Seamasters also had a bumper auto movement, a Cal.351 I believe.
Although somewhat familiar with these movements from my horological library, I had never actually set eyes on mine, so whilst penning this I decided to open her up and take a few photos.
This actual movement is the Cal.354 which has a power reserve of approx 35hrs. Not having been serviced for over 25 years and thus lacking efficient lubrication, it's very rarely worn as this would accelerate internal wear. For these brief photos however it still runs extremely well, although no longer within COSC limits.

View attachment 2236971 View attachment 2236977

A final on-the-wrist photo.
View attachment 2236983
What an absolutely gorgeous, exquisite, and quite wonderful, timepiece.

Beautiful.

This is exactly the sort of timepiece that I adore. I love the classic appearance, the dauphine hands, the Arabic numbers at the four quadrants, and the fact that it is a timeless and elegant classic, with a legendary movement.

Actually, I would love one for myself, at some stage.

And, I love the white shirt cuff, as well. Very elegant.

Do enjoy and well wear.

In fact, wear it - (why not service it?), for, that is why such gorgeous chronometers were designed in the first place.
 
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CooperBox

macrumors 68000
What a superb watch! It's so pleasing to see such a clean and fresh design, I'd certainly do a double-take if I saw one being worn and be tempted to strike up a conversation with the fortunate owner. I'm somewhat familiar with Breitlings, but this SuperOcean I hadn't seen before and wanted to know more.
Unless I'm mistaken I'd guess it's the Heritage II Chronograph, not sure what year though. It looks a monster of a watch too, likely a 46mm. Rather strange that Breitling currently do not show a SuperOcean Chronograph on their site, so maybe it's a limited edition. Oviously it's a high-end Breitling with a price to match; so satisfying compared to the all-too-frequently-viewed and so difficult to purchase......well you know the model I mean. ;)
 
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Queen6

macrumors G4
What a superb watch! It's so pleasing to see such a clean and fresh design, I'd certainly do a double-take if I saw one being worn and be tempted to strike up a conversation with the fortunate owner. I'm somewhat familiar with Breitlings, but this SuperOcean I hadn't seen before and wanted to know more.
Unless I'm mistaken I'd guess it's the Heritage II Chronograph, not sure what year though. It looks a monster of a watch too, likely a 46mm. Rather strange that Breitling currently do not show a SuperOcean Chronograph on their site, so maybe it's a limited edition. Oviously it's a high-end Breitling with a price to match; so satisfying compared to the all-too-frequently-viewed and so difficult to purchase......well you know the model I mean. ;)
Right on all counts is a 46mm, yet wears well. Wasn't a limited edition, equally dont think many were produced due to the cost of the movement and other aspects of the watch pushing it into five figures. I bought it new via a friend in the business. Came with a very healthy discount and the cost of a lavish meal for the lady concerned ;)

Have a few more interesting pieces such as the original Sturmanskie Mars watch that I picked up in the east back in the day, ETA movement & Cyrillic dial. One of the few originals aimed at the Russian space agency, little rough around the edges but a hell of a watch. Keeps excellent time as is should given it's purpose, as in certified chronograph accuracy. One of my most worm mechanical watch's.

Q-6
 
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CooperBox

macrumors 68000
Right on all counts is a 46mm, yet wears well. Wasn't a limited edition, equally dont think many were produced due to the cost of the movement and other aspects of the watch pushing it into five figures. I bought it new via a friend in the business. Came with a very healthy discount and the cost of a lavish meal for the lady concerned ;)

Have a few more interesting pieces such as the original Sturmanskie Mars watch that I picked up in the east back in the day, ETA movement & Cyrillic dial. One of the few originals aimed at the Russian space agency, little rough around the edges but a hell of a watch. Keeps excellent time as is should given it's purpose, as in certified chronograph accuracy. One of my most worm mechanical watch's.

Q-6
Thanks for the additional info, that sure is a great watch!
I'd like to see the Sturmanskie Mars watch you refer to, as I'm sure others here may too.
 

Sital

macrumors 68020
May 31, 2012
2,141
932
New England
That Breitling is a beautiful watch with striking color.

However, I'm not clear what it means when people say it's a clean and/or fresh design. I own a Breitling and it's one of my favorite watches, so this is not meant as a criticism but as a genuine question. For instance, I find it hard to call that a clean design with 5 lines of text on the dial. I'm also not sure what is fresh about that design, as there are other chrono divers with similar looks.

Am I too focused on the dial (can't see the forest for the trees)? Or maybe not paying enough attention to the dial detail? I'd love to know what others see or look for when they look at watches.
 

Queen6

macrumors G4
Thanks for the additional info, that sure is a great watch!
I'd like to see the Sturmanskie Mars watch you refer to, as I'm sure others here may too.
As requested, lighting is terrible in this room, equally doesn't detract from the watches inherent beauty.
IMG_20230808_232824.jpg

IMG_20230808_232933.jpg

One of the first run of 250, with the majority mostly going to the Russian space agency. Little crude in places yet have likely worn this mechanical more than any other...

Sturmanskie rapidly realised they has a hit on their hands with the Mars design and subsequently went into mass production. That said only the original run had the ETA movement and certified for use by the Cosmonauts in space. The Mars has a Beryllium core and resultantly hight anti-magmatic with the design reflecting earlier days of the space race. Very much a piece of it's time...

Q-6
 
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Queen6

macrumors G4
An absolutely gorgeous watch and thanks for sharing.

Although there is a lot going on, it doesn't detract from the classy elegance of the piece, and I must say that I really love the clean design (and thus agree with what @CooperBox has written).
The Breitling is a little busy, but at 46mm pulls it off well. I did have the option of a 42mm, however the chronograph called out to me. Is a watch that constantly gains complement...

Those that want clean I've a Korsbek deep diver coming up next that is 64 of 100. Again well worn as it should be and another spectacular time keeper for a mechanical watch :)

Q-6
 
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Queen6

macrumors G4
I love how "Sturamnskie" became a brand name)))
Yes and no as going into mass production rather took the edge off the brand. The OG space certified Mars will always hold their value the rest not so much being very much an imposter to the crown.

Sturamnskie was always a recognised brand in mechanical watch circles. Sadly somewhat diminished by the cheaper iterations of late. I own Casio's that have greater levels of quality, significantly so...

Q-6
 

alexandr

macrumors 603
Nov 11, 2005
5,764
10,484
11201-121099
Yes and no as going into mass production rather took the edge off the brand. The OG space certified Mars will always hold their value the rest not so much being very much an imposter to the crown.

Sturamnskie was always a recognised brand in mechanical watch circles. Sadly somewhat diminished by the cheaper iterations of late. I own Casio's that have greater levels of quality, significantly so...

Q-6
I meant the name, as it's not a noun nor a proper noun.
 
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Scepticalscribe

macrumors Haswell
Jul 29, 2008
65,181
47,567
In a coffee shop.
Ha, thank you! Yes, from the golden age of their design — I'm not a big fan of what they are currently doing with their headphones...

Unfortunately, I find myself in complete agreement with you about this.

Actually, I used to love Bowers & Wilkins headphones, and have had several - from what you so rightly describe as the "golden age" of their design; they were simply wonderful, the glorious and gorgeous P5s, above all.
 
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alexandr

macrumors 603
Nov 11, 2005
5,764
10,484
11201-121099
Unfortunately, I find myself in complete agreement with you about this.

Actually, I used to love Bowers & Wilkins headphones, and have had several - from what you so rightly describe as the "golden age" of their design; they were simply wonderful, the glorious and gorgeous P5s, above all.
Exactly so — I kinda regret not buying the wireless version of that model, but I hated that they changed the sides from silver to black, didn't really care for that... But they are nice part of the furniture now :D
 
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transmaster

Contributor
Feb 1, 2010
1,757
873
Cheyenne, Wyoming
This was my paternal GrandFather's pocket watch he got it when his Grandfather died about 120 years ago. This is a 1877 Rockford, Illinois Watch Company pocket watch. It is in running condition probably could use servicing it has been at least 30 years since it was last done. It winds up with a key, and that key also sets the hands. It is very scary to do it like this as you have to open the from bezel and the key fits over a square dive at the center of the hands. It has an alloy silver case. The crystal shows its age, I am in 2 minds about replacing it, Right now I am going to leave it as it is.

The minute hand is straight it angles a down at the end to clear the crystal it is angle I took this photo with my iPhone.
IMG_7084.jpeg
 
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transmaster

Contributor
Feb 1, 2010
1,757
873
Cheyenne, Wyoming
This is My grandfathers everyday pocket watch. This one does need a service it does not run. It is a 1917 South Bend. This was a very popular watch in its day. It was not until after WW1, and especially after WW2 that wrist watches took over from the pocket watch. Wrist Watches were worn by women only before WW1. It was WW1 French aviators that started the switch. While they were flying they could not take the time and attention away from flying their airplanes pulling out a pocket watch. So watch makers started to make larger faced wrist watches for pilots. During WW2 it was the issue of the A-11 Watch that ended the dominance of the pocket watch.

The story of this South Bend is very sad. Grandfather Kenneth Wilson had this in the pocket watch pocket on his Levis when he was killed in a saw mill accident in 1940 in what is now the Bridger Wilderness area in Wyoming. This Pocket Watch went into a dresser drawer and stayed there for about 60 years until my dad got it.


IMG_6790.jpeg
 

transmaster

Contributor
Feb 1, 2010
1,757
873
Cheyenne, Wyoming
It is kind of funny I look at my iPhone as an advanced Pocket watch.

There is a Pocket Watch I am going to purchase and I will have to order it directly from Japan. It is the Seiko Railway Clock SVBR003 it has a quartz movement. One of my nephews was in Japan. He sent me a photo of the engineers station on a bullet train. surrounded by all of the high tech monitors was this Seiko pocket watch clipped into a special holder made just for it.

Screenshot 2023-08-11 at 19.57.32.png
 
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