Thoughts on watch modification?

Gaf16 · May 19, 2025

I also own this 18k dial which I originally purchased for the build.
Both dials are model correct but, I prefer the dial with the textured lines in it from an aesthetic point of view.
The lined dial was typically fitted to the highest specification of the solid gold 198.0016 and 198.0005 models and seen with the gold date wheel.
The plain gold dial typically came with a white date wheel I believe (although you can find various combinations of both in online photos).
Anyway, at the risk of sounding completely mad, as I then had a spare gold dial I decided to create a second bi-colour watch on a genuine NOS sharkskin strap with gold no. 27 clasp🙈
So, I have recently sourced a second donor watch and that project is now underway.

Gaf16 · May 19, 2025

With the bracelet project, the intention is to have the case finish matched to the brushing on the NOS bracelet (in the areas that it was brushed from factory) but, to also keep the polished areas of the case as factory too.

bsowers34 · May 19, 2025

Gaf16
The other interesting thing is that I will have created a watch which will be worth much less than the sum of the parts has cost to facilitate the build.
The even more interesting thing is that I don't care having seen the watch head completed.
It is worth it to me and I have absolutely no intention of selling it.
If you have a real passion for watches, as a collector and lover of certain watch models it is kind of irrelevant if the finished watch gives you that certain feeling.
I have asked myself the question that, if I do manage to source an original specification full 18k version of the 198.0016, would I still feel the same?
And, honestly, I have no doubt that I will.

What you are doing is cool. I just don't see the point of modifying a new or recent one. That's (sorta) why I have four 3861s instead of one custom one.

Gaf16 · May 19, 2025

bsowers34
What you are doing is cool. I just don't see the point of modifying a new or recent one. That's (sorta) why I have four 3861s instead of one custom one.

I completely agree with that. TBH, depending on your point of view, I could be ruining original examples of these watches or finding a use for all of the original gold parts that are out there which have become nearly useless as all of the original 18k watches they were intended for have been melted for scrap years ago🤔 The fact that these model references are not currently valued highly in the market makes it much more justifiable I guess🤷 And, as long as I keep all of the originally parts, I don't think I'm actually ruining them really.

Gaf16 · May 19, 2025

For some context, each donor watch (with box and papers) cost me less than I paid for the 18k bezel which was maybe 15% above the scrap weight gold value.
Which explains perfectly why all of the original gold cases and bracelets were melted for scrap over the last 40 years or so🤬
I am determined to find myself one eventually though👊👊

Gaf16 · Jun 11, 2025

Should have a photo uploaded within the next week of where the build is at currently.
Will have the 18k gold dial, hands, date wheel and crown fitted.
Unfortunately, the watchmaker who has done the initial work is not comfortable with fitting the 18k bezel as he's afraid of damaging it🤷
The watch case maker in the Jewellery Quarter that is modifying the bracelet and end links has agreed to do it though👌
So, it will form part of the final build phase to complete the project.
It's a shame really because, had it been fitted now, I would have been able to see the finished watch head aesthetics at least.

Gaf16 · Jul 11, 2025

Photos are not great sorry, taken on my iPhone with my not very steady hands🙈
18k dial, gold hands, gold crown, gold inner bezel and gold date wheel fitted along with new crystal and gaskets.
Now off to Jewellery Quarter on Monday to have 18k bezel fitted and the Omega steel and gold bracelet modified to suit.

Gaf16 · Oct 26, 2025

So, was short of an 18k bezel to complete the parts for second bi-colour build. Managed to source this last week NOS with the very rare burgundy insert 😁😍

Gaf16 · Oct 26, 2025

Extremely nice surprise 👌

Gaf16 · Oct 29, 2025

Picked up two of these NOS sharkskin straps today from the US. Initially wanted them for the metal end pieces that suit the No. 27 clasp as they are hard to find. Straps cost me $65 each which I thought was too good to pass up. They are Megaquartz straps so, 28mm at the watch head end which is very wide. Now intending to get the straps deconstructed and modified to suit my 198.0016's. Also picked up a NOS gold plated No. 27 clasp from France. I already have one but, mine only has the clasp outer shell gold plated. Never seen a fully gold plated one before. All will be used for current projects or kept as spares to future proof my collection.