Searching for: Omega QOS or Skyfall
JTBond
Posts: 130MI6 Agent
Since CR was released it's been a life goal of mine to acquire an Omega watch. I've finally reached a point where I have the means to purchase one. I'm currently torn between the QOS and Skyfall Planet Oceans. Given that those watches were released around 17 and 13 years ago respectively, I was curious if anyone with experience buying used has any suggestions for where I should look for one, any red flags to watch for and avoid, etc. I've started skimming through eBay so far and their 'authenticity guaranteed' sounds promising but there aren't a ton of options that haven't been nicked and scratches up. I am in the US.
I appreciate any advice!
Comments
Look at reputable resellers like Bob's Watches or use Chrono24 to help locate. You can also check local boutique jewellery stores who may sell pre-owned watches.
Box and papers are a huge plus but not always a deal breaker. Ideally the watch hasn't been re-polished as that removes a small amount of material and can affect the value of the watch.
If it's been serviced recently and has the paperwork for that, great. If not, may need a servicing which can be pricey as an addon for a watch purchase.
I just bought my third Omega, a used 2221.80 from Chrono24. I'm not a fan of ebay for big purchases like this but my advise is to buy the seller. When you find an item you like research the seller, look at the reviews, see if they are are mentioned elsewhere online or reddit.
Look for a seller from your country, if the watch need to go back it's a lot easier so mail/deal with it domestically. There is a large legit Omega sales community from Japan. You would need to do your research to make sure you have the correct dealers and not a scammer if you go this route but you also have tariffs to consider now.
Thank you both. Couple more rookie questions...
Do Omegas tend to scratch easily? The majority that I see have some type of minor damage. Or is that just the nature of buying from the used market?
How often do they need servicing? I've seen everything from 5-20 years, or just when something goes wrong.
They don't scratch more or less as any other stainless steel watch. You'll eventually get minor wear scuffs but they come out easily. When you service the watch they'll buff out any scuffs.
Now for the length of service that will depend on the watch/movement you are looking at. An older watch with the eta based movements will need more service than that modern 8800 type movements just because the newer movements are much more sophisticated. The older Seamaster quartz movements barely need any servicing.
Also, I'm not sure what they have for used time prices, but make sure you take a look at Jomashop, they are a legit grey market dealer, I've used them a few times and have always had a good experience.
My Seamaster was purchased (new) at an official dealership - but sites like Chrono 24 seem reliable too. Over the years the watch has gained a few scratches - that'll happen, just like with cars, shoes etc. When the watch is being serviced it is usually polished as well. Scratches won't disappear but they do fade a bit. Speaking of servicing: the battery needs replacing every 3 - 4 years, which is also a good opportunity to replace gaskets and provide a general servicing. This will set you back a good $300 - $400, providing no serious work is required.
If you purchase an automatic, there is of course no battery to replace, but the servicing still won't be cheap.
Right now I'm leaning towards the 2201.50 simply because I think it would fit my wrist better where it's not as thick as the Skyfall iteration of the PO.
Let me know if anyone has one they're interested in parting with