The Omega Seamaster is a watch we see regularly in our workshop. It is however a little unusual to receive two of the same model from the same client! Both watches were the mid-size version of the Seamaster, with a black dial and a stainless steel case and bracelet. They were both working though our client said they were unreliable. There were also problems with the clasp on each watch.
Inspection of each movement revealed them both to be in good condition. This makes our life much easier, as if watches are well maintained there is less risk of broken parts or damage caused by significant wear. These watches are powered by the Omega calibre 1120 movement – an automatic mechanical watch movement of excellent quality. This is a modified version of a movement produced by ETA – one of the top watch movement manufacturers. The modifications are designed to improve performance, with 23 jewels and a three arm Glucydur balance amongst the modifications made to the base movement.
We fully serviced and fitted a fresh mainspring to each watch. When we service a watch it is completely disassembled and pre-cleaned, with each part inspected. The disassembled movement is then run through our specialist watch movement cleaning machine, while the case and bracelet are cleaned in a separate ultrasonic cleaner. After cleaning the movement is carefully reassembled and oiled. The dial and hands are then refitted, before the complete movement is fitted into the case.
Once cased up we fine-tune the timekeeping to make sure each watch is as accurate as it can be. Indeed these models are chronometer rated, so when new these movements passed a series of strict tests to ensure excellent timekeeping accuracy. We endeavour get timekeeping as accurate as we can – both watches were adjusted and still met the timekeeping criteria as chronometers. It’s important to note here that every watch is different and will have different timekeeping capabilities – we will of course advise you on what you can realistically expect from your specific watch (for example, accuracy to a few seconds a day may be fine for these modern Omega watches, but it is unrealistic when dealing with a verge pocket watch!).
One of the last elements of the job is to pressure test for water resistance. The Omega Seamaster is rated to 300m water resistant – we are able to test to this depth using our Sigma watch pressure testing machine. Finally we refit the bracelet (complete with brand new Omega clasp) before the watches go on test prior to returning them to our client.
Do you have an Omega watch in need of repair? Get in contact with us to see how we can help. We are able to repair almost any Omega watch and we offer a comprehensive watch repair service. We cater to clients all around the UK thanks to our fully insured freepost watch repairs service. You can also bring watches in to our showrooms based in Lewes and Uckfield, Sussex. As Business Partners of the British Horological Institute and a Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award accredited business, you can be confident when dealing with us.
Yours sincerely
David Clark PJDip PJGemDip CertGA
Managing Director