trailboss99 994 Posted November 27, 2009 Welcome to another great review by By-Tor. First I want to thank my good friend **b16a2** who sourced this watch for me in the UK. Amazing guy, amazing member. I won't go to the details here but I can say that people in this community never cease to amaze me. My watch is 5 years old but in absolutely PRISTINE condition. Thanks again mate and I hope I can buy you a beer (or 10) if we ever meet in the future European GTG's. This time I don't even bother to attempt a traditional review because it's a genuine watch. There's nothing to say that people haven't said about this watch before. "Bond" Seamaster must be among the most popular luxury watches on the planet, and probably the most popular gen among the RWG members. It's also the most important and most successful model for Omega ever (along with the Speedmaster Moon Watch of course). And if you consider its popularity and overall "status" in the watch world, it's actually perverse and weird that it doesn't cost more. It's every bit as well finished as my Rolex, just three times cheaper in the preowned market. Definitely a genuine bargain (no pun). The achievements of the "Bond" Seamaster don't surprise me one bit... even without connection to Bond movies this watch would be desirable. It's very unique and handsome watch. I used to own a replica of this watch. I had it in my possession for 4 full years and traded it this spring to a fellow RWG member, sbreene. Wear it well Sean, it's a "special" piece. I guess it's safe to say that I've worn this watch model more than any other watch in my collection. So in many ways this is not a "new" watch for me at all. Just an "upgrade". I like the "Electric Blue" version a lot, and also the black SMP Professional (GMT and non-GMT) a lot but this "Bond" model was the only one I have seriously considered. The "Speedy" bracelet that Omega uses on its other SMP models isn't even nearly as desirable as the Bond bracelet. The bracelet, however, was replicated amazingly well on the old replica model. It was virtually 95%. I knew this of course, but it's still amazing how close it was. Unfortunately the bracelets of the new rep versions aren't as good. After getting regular wrist time for 4+ years, this model didn't lost its appeal for me at all. Just like my previous 2 gen purchases, Aquaracer Chronograph and Rolex GMT Master II (both got "rep tested" as well), this is definitely something that I will keep for good. I always knew I was going to purchase the gen eventually. I have said it before and I'll say it again: Reps are perfect to "get to know" the model... and test whether some model has a long term appeal or not. If the SMP rep had a shortcoming, it's the wave pattern on the dial. It wasn't apparent enough. However, replica of the Bond chronograph is much better in this regard, and also overall it's more accurate replication. I also have that chrono (rep) still in my collection and I love it just as much as the regular version. In certain lighting the wave pattern is really, really strong on the gen. SMP is "only" 42mm so it's perfectly balanced watch. I would say it's a big and bulky watch but today's standards are different. Perfect size for a sports watch, imho. Are the gens worth it, and does the rep make any sense? Well this is an interesting question, isn't it? I love reps as much as ever, but I don't really see a point of spending $350 for a rep (or $600 on a franken) of a watch that can be obtained for as low as ca. $1K - $1.3K preowned. The quartz version of this watch can be found for $600. Yes, it's "only" a quartz but it's still genuine, and something that you can proudly leave to your son (for example). Now that the economy took a dive all around the US and EU, some very desirable models like Omega Seamaster, Breitling SuperOcean and TAG Aquaracer Chronograph are all 1K+ watches preowned. I already own 2 out of 3 as gens, and most likely SFSO blue will be my next gen purchase. The rep factories/dealers must wake up and smell the coffee. Asking $400 + shipping for a SFSO rep isn't insanity... but buying one certainly is. Don't be a moron. I encourage you to take a look at places like TZ sales corner and witness yourself how great watches can be found for $1K (and even $600) now. By all means, buy expensive reps of $5K watches like sports Rolexes, TT BCE, Ebel BTR or Zenith... or real high end pieces like Breguet, VC or Patek... but before you purchase ETA/7750-based standard TAGs, Breitlings and Omegas, follow the prices and at least seriously consider I'm not saying this because I've become a "gen snob". I will never become one... reps are much more fascinating and some of them impress me even more than gens. But it's all common sense. The rep prices have reached a point where buying forgeries of "low end" luxury watches doesn't make any sense anymore (imho). I'm not pointing fingers at the dealers and/or factories, just stating the facts. But of course, it's partly a personal preference and I used to think differently. My old SMP replica had 85% "quality feel" of the gen, and it was visually very, very close. That last 15% will cost you $700 - $800. I admit it's still a lot of money. A ridiculous amount of money for a watch (for any non-WIS type). But then again my ETA SMP was a $175 watch back in early 2005 when the prices were still reasonable. Either way, when I look at all the small details and that 15% (which was previously missing) I'm really happy. Maybe I'm buying gens because after owning 50+ reps, I have reached a point where I know exactly what watches I want to have in my collection (long term). I have probably reached the "second level" of WISdom as well. Hope you enjoyed this quick article. buying a gen. Posted by TB99 on behaslf of By-Tor. __________________ Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oscarmadfish 0 Posted November 27, 2009 great review as always Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Novesh 0 Posted November 27, 2009 Love the watch, review sure, but the watch...a classic! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jmd33 0 Posted November 27, 2009 (edited) Perfect review of a great watch!!!!! +1 to all of it. I love and own Omega watches (both gen and rep). The reps allow a great test drive to see if the gen would be worth it to you, and prior to the co-axial hype they were the best value in watches (IMO). Even when you replace your rep with the gen, the rep still has utility for wearing to the park, in the yard, etc... because people are used to seeing you with that model on so they just assume the rep and gen are the same watch. Recently I was at the AD and looked at the black bond. I liked it so much I am currently test driving the rep (which, so far, I like a lot). If I get the gen I'll keep the rep - again to have an interchangeable model for no worry wear. Thanks for the review! Edited November 27, 2009 by jmd33 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
houndoggie 58 Posted November 27, 2009 Nice pics, great review! I agree 100% with the ideas conveyed. Now is definitely the time to get that gen you always wanted, the used market is very good right now and excellent watches can be had for cheap. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Member X 91 Posted November 27, 2009 Thanks for the review It doesn't speak to me personally but it is a good looking watch with a classic design. It's also good to know that, through rep collecting, you worked out what exactly would work for you, and that meant you could get what you wanted and would love straight off, rather than spending $$$$ on something that you got bored of and made a loss on when you traded it in for something else. That's exactly the reason why reps are a good idea, but so many gen owners don't understand it!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
P_Diddy 0 Posted November 27, 2009 (edited) how much would this particular gen, cost on the used market now? anyone have an idea of availibility and price in UK ? Edited November 27, 2009 by P_Diddy Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
P_Diddy 0 Posted November 27, 2009 HD not as good looking as the two Omega gens that you own? Nice pics, great review! I agree 100% with the ideas conveyed. Now is definitely the time to get that gen you always wanted, the used market is very good right now and excellent watches can be had for cheap. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
houndoggie 58 Posted November 27, 2009 how much would this particular gen, cost on the used market now? $1000+ depending on condition. probable $1200 at the top end. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
houndoggie 58 Posted November 27, 2009 HD not as good looking as the two Omega gens that you own? Nice pics, great review! I agree 100% with the ideas conveyed. Now is definitely the time to get that gen you always wanted, the used market is very good right now and excellent watches can be had for cheap. I like this Bond Seamaster.. I had the rep awhile back and was considering get the gen but I decide to get a TAG instead. (I've got 5 gen Omegas, ) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
P_Diddy 0 Posted November 27, 2009 that converts to about £670 - £800 approx but I have not seen anything that low in UK market. how much would this particular gen, cost on the used market now? $1000+ depending on condition. probable $1200 at the top end. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
houndoggie 58 Posted November 27, 2009 that converts to about £670 - £800 approx but I have not seen anything that low in UK market. how much would this particular gen, cost on the used market now? $1000+ depending on condition. probable $1200 at the top end. I see that a used Midsize (37mm Bond) Automatic in decent shape is FS in UK for £475... not the same, but similar http://www.thewatchforum.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=48792 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
P_Diddy 0 Posted November 27, 2009 thanks HD pesky TZ Uk site only allows you to view Sales section after 25 post count! any other good GEN sales sites ? Thanks PD that converts to about £670 - £800 approx but I have not seen anything that low in UK market. how much would this particular gen, cost on the used market now? $1000+ depending on condition. probable $1200 at the top end. I see that a used Midsize (37mm Bond) Automatic in decent shape is FS in UK for £475... not the same, but similar http://www.thewatchforum.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=48792 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
P_Diddy 0 Posted November 27, 2009 HD I like your recent Gen Omega purchase but I doubt that I can find that for less than £800 in UK? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
houndoggie 58 Posted November 27, 2009 thanks HD pesky TZ Uk site only allows you to view Sales section after 25 post count! any other good GEN sales sites ? Thanks PD that converts to about £670 - £800 approx but I have not seen anything that low in UK market. how much would this particular gen, cost on the used market now? $1000+ depending on condition. probable $1200 at the top end. I see that a used Midsize (37mm Bond) Automatic in decent shape is FS in UK for £475... not the same, but similar http://www.thewatchforum.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=48792 Try this site: http://www.elitedealseeker.com/index.cgi?category=watches Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sconehead 5 Posted November 27, 2009 how much would this particular gen, cost on the used market now? anyone have an idea of availibility and price in UK ? Look here, http://www.miltonaires.com/others_soldExcluded.asp it's a reputable pawn shop in my neck of the woods, google for similar in your area, here's some prices, Steel mid-size Omega Seamaster quartz with blue dial and bezel. Many customers find this a more manageable size than the full-size worn by 007 Pierce Brosnan. Priced very keenly to reflect some marks to the bezel. £525.00 X19166 Steel mid-size Omega Seamaster quartz bracelet watch with blue dial & bezel. Superb condition, just one very small mark on the bezel. £599.00 578096-1A Gent's Omega Seamaster quartz bracelet watch, model ref 2264.50.00 with black dial and bezel. Comes with boxes, manual, swing-tag & warranty card from November 2003. The NEW equivalent is now £1,160! This is stock from our Chester shop, but available at Miltons in St.John's, Liverpool. on deposit £599.00 SSMC-S1499 Mid-size Omega Seamaster automatic bracelet watch, blue dial and bezel. This is a more manageable size for some gents who still want all the style of the classic Pierce Brosnan 007 look. Some slight wear to bezel, but movement serviced in April 2009. A huge saving against the cost of a new equivalent! on deposit £599.00 X18702 Gent's steel Omega Seamaster quartz bracelet watch, model 2541.80.00 with blue dial and bezel. The classic design made popular by Pierce Brosnan's 007 in Goldeneye, in lovely condition and complete with original Omega box, manual & UK card from David M. Robinson dated 21/6/2002. £699.00 582310-1A Classic full-size Omega Seamaster automatic model 2531.80.00 with blue dial and bezel, complete with boxes, booklet and our own warranty card. This model has been a best-seller since 007 Brosnan started wearing Omegas in Goldeneye. £699.00 161957-1A Gent's steel Omega Seamaster quartz bracelet watch, model 2541.80.00 with blue dial and bezel. The classic design made popular by Pierce Brosnan's 007, in lovely condition and complete with original Omega box. £699.00 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
greg_r 81 Posted November 27, 2009 Very interesting link, Sconey. Thanks. All I have to do now is resist... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sconehead 5 Posted November 27, 2009 Very interesting link, Sconey. Thanks. All I have to do now is resist... Resistance is futile... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
P_Diddy 0 Posted November 27, 2009 What's the opinion on Omega: Automatic or Quartz, which one would you go for? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sconehead 5 Posted November 27, 2009 I'm a mechanical watch person, so it'd be an auto for me. However, the quartz version is cheaper second-hand, probably more accurate timekeeping wise and would probably serve you better as a daily beater. Be aware though, the mid-size versions don't hold their price as well as the full... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
greg_r 81 Posted November 27, 2009 Very interesting link, Sconey. Thanks. All I have to do now is resist... Resistance is futile... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Member X 91 Posted November 27, 2009 I knew there was a reason for that smiley LOL Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jmd33 0 Posted November 28, 2009 What's the opinion on Omega: Automatic or Quartz, which one would you go for? I like both for different reasons. The autos have a soul, but the quartz are accurate, reliable and you can pick it up after a week and just put it on. I have about half and half and like the features of both almost equally. Decisions.....decisions......[or you can just get both - lol] Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mad dawg 0 Posted November 28, 2009 I agree with the sentiments entirely, especially the philosophy that reps are a means to deciding which gen to buy. MD Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Slim 0 Posted December 16, 2010 My 007 Sub (mid-size, I have a relatively small wrist and it's my ideal size - same size as my IWC Inge and my Mk XII) is a quartz one. I love mechanical watches but it's great to have a couple of nice watches that you can just pick up and wear without setting the time, and that you know will be accurate to within a second or two. The other one is a Breitling Aerospace. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites