My $5 find....vintage 505 movement....what do I do now?

L
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Hello everyone.....my first post here.

I found this movement at a garage sale in a box of misc junk......the asking price was $5 for everything and I gladly paid. The rest of the items were junk, but this movement has me intrigued.

I love watches, but I'm not a watchmaker. I looked up the serial number and it dates to around 1958 or so (16,xxx,xxx). The rotor still winds the watch correctly...and the wheels seem to move and tick flawlessly. The movement is marked 505.

My question is........Is this worth restoring and finding a dial/case for? I would LOVE to own a vintage OMEGA, but it may be cheaper to start with a watch that has a dial, case, band, etc.

What are my options and what are your expert opinions? Thanks!

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gatorcpa
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I've seen a number of empty Constellation cases for sale that will fit this movement. Hands are fairly easy to source as well. However, finding a dial for this watch in decent condition will be a challenge.

The movement certainly has some decent value for parts, many of which are impossible to source.

A very nice find,
gatorcpa
 
U
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That's worth the $5 for sure! As gator mentioned, a dial will be tough. Then you'll have what we call a frankenwatch anyway, which doesn't interest collectors much unfortunately. You might be better off selling the movement as it is, making a profit on the quick turn.
 
L
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Would it be possible to source a "correct" dial and case? I don't particularly like the idea of a "Frankenwatch".

gatorcpa mentioned Constellation.....is this movement from a Constellation watch?

Lastly, if all else fails......what kind of monetary value does just the movement have? Turning it for a quick profit may be an option.

Sorry for the newbie questions!
 
U
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Yes, it's probably from a Constellation. As far as selling just the movement, I recently bought a 550 (part of the next series in Omega's automatic evolution) for $30. Your 505 is worth a few bucks more at least. I know a couple watchmakers who look to buy these for $50 or less, but they're looking for a bit of a bargain.
 
gatorcpa
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L LowLife
Would it be possible to source a "correct" dial and case? I don't particularly like the idea of a "Frankenwatch".

gatorcpa mentioned Constellation.....is this movement from a Constellation watch?

Lastly, if all else fails......what kind of monetary value does just the movement have? Turning it for a quick profit may be an option.

Sorry for the newbie questions!

These movements were mostly used in Constellations and few Seamasters. All cal. 505 movements were rated chronometers, which means they were given extra attention at the factory and certified to run to tighter specifications than a "normal" watch when new.

I don't have much of an idea of value, other than I think it would draw bids on eBay from collectors who either have the other parts to make a complete watch, or need the bits to fix a watch in their collection.

Take care,
gatorcpa
 
kyle L
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I'm sure collectors would be interested in buying it, parts can be hard to find. Personally I would keep it, it might be handy in the future!
 
dsio
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Whew, thought from the username you were my sister's boyfriend for a moment.

I'm sure you can find a good home for it somewhere.
 
U
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dsio dsio
Whew, thought from the username you were my sister's boyfriend for a moment.

ba - dum - tsh! 😜
 
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