Vintage
AndrewD initiates a fascinating discussion on his 1960s Omega Geneve Ref. 135.070, seeking community insights into its history and technical specifications. His post highlights the enduring appeal of vintage Omega watches, particularly the 'workhorse' Geneve line, and invites collectors to share their knowledge and experiences with this classic model. This thread offers a valuable resource for understanding the Geneve's place in Omega's heritage.
Dear All,
I have been enjoying the simple design of this 1960’s Omega Geneve over the last few months. I understand that it was a bit of a ‘workhorse’ model in its day, but I think Omega were very good at this type of watch. I am new to these historical pieces and I would be very thankful if you could share your knowledge or experience with the Geneve and perhaps some images to show the different iterations over the years.
From what I can find on the Web, the Geneve was produced in the 1960’s and the serial number on this movement (29866083) indicates production in 1970. The movement is the hand wound Cal. 601, 27.9x3.85mm, 17 rubies, 19,800vph (2.75Hz), adjusted in two positions with a 50 hour power reserve. I read that the Cal. 601 was “Omega’s last in-house hand wound calibre” and was used in its low to mid level watches. What does this mean and can anyone tell me more?
The reference stamped on the case back is 135.070. I understand that this means leather strap (1), centre seconds with no date (3), hand wind (5) and case made in 1970 (.070). Am I on the right track here? Great that Omega would provide this sort of information on each watch.
The case itself looks to be gold plated (I assume that is what the “20 microns” on the case back refers to) and is not in great condition. It is 34mm in diameter but has a large crystal and uncluttered dial so wears quite large. Most importantly it has been keeping brilliant time since a service and is very pleasurable to wind.
I look forward to learning a lot more about vintage Omega’s.
Thanks for your time.
Andrew
. . . it looks to be in excellent condition, and your wrist shots portray how well a simple dial design can appear in a watch that today would be considered undersized . . . cordially, Art
Thanks Art, The dial is in good condition. The case appears to have had a not particularly professional polish, although this is not very obvious except on close inspection. I donβt know if this is something that can be repaired with a re-polish or not. I have a pretty average 17.5cm (7 inch) wrist and the 34mm Geneve seems fine, particularly under a cuff. It can get a little βlostβ on a bare arm. Still, I find the face very beautiful. Regards Andrew
Hi Damian Thanks for the image. Can you tell us any more about the watch, it's production date, how it came into your possession? Very nice. Andrew
It is a lovely watch and it looks very well restored. where did you have yours restored, Omega, Switzerland or watchmaker? I have one as well (ultrathin) from the 60ties ingold. Used to be my grandads. I left it at the bank vault but next time I go Ill get it and shoot pics. I love it but its quite small and fragile so I dont really wear it. Best COD
Hi Christian, I wish I knew more about this watch, but I don't. I found it unexpectedly a few months ago in an antique shop that specialised more in furniture than anything else. I had it cleaned and lubricated and my watchmaker said the movement looked hardly used and without any wear. I must say that for its age (perhaps I am making inappropriate assumptions here) it keeps brilliant time. The case has had a rough polish as some stage, but I don't know if it is something that can be repaired/re
Hi Andrew Great watch. The Geneve line in the late 50s it was Omega top line of watches. In the late 60s Omega change the direction and made the Geneve line the "low" cost entry point. Omega's target was the "next generation" and so made case designs with simple lines and simple finishes. No beveled bezels or turned lugs, just simple shaped and finished cases. But they used the same TOP quality movements as in anyother watch in the collection. So the comment of the use of the 601 was limited to
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