Omega is one of the most prolific Swiss luxury watch brands with an immense collection of diverse watches on offer. Models like the Speedmaster, Seamaster, and Constellation are beloved by watch fans everywhere. As such, selling a pre-owned Omega watch is relatively easy thanks to widespread brand recognition.
For a comprehensive overview of the selling process, you can dive into our guide on how to sell a luxury watch. However, since every watch brand is slightly different, we’ve compiled some handy Omega-specific tips to help you even further. If you want to know how to sell your Omega watch, here’s what we recommend.
Identify the Omega Reference and Serial Numbers
Regardless of the specific brand, the first step when selling a watch is always the same: identify the reference number. This string of numbers is the key to understanding what your watch is and how much it’s potentially worth. Reference numbers of Omega watches are especially useful to know because they include model, material, dial, and bracelet codes, thereby revealing plenty of relevant information.
Omega Reference Numbers Explained
Omega has used various reference numbering systems over the years. The two most modern systems are the following:
- 8-Digit Product Identification Code (PIC) System (1988 – 2007): XXXX.YY.ZZ
- 14-Digit Product Identification Code System (from 2007): AAA.BB.CC.DD.EE.FFF
Using the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch reference 310.30.42.50.01.001 as an example:
- Group A refers to the Omega family of watches. E.g. 310 = Speedmaster
- Group B refers to the case and bracelet material of the watch. E.g. 30 = steel and another material for the case + assorted metal for the bracelet (steel in this instance)
- Group C refers to the case size. E.g. 42 = 42mm
- Group D refers to movement type. E.g. 50 = mechanical chronograph
- Group E refers to dial color and material. E.g. 01 = black
- Group F refers to the specific sequence number of the watch. E.g. 001 = first in the sequence
Watch: Marco explains why the Omega Speedmaster is one of the best luxury chronographs to own
While older Omega watches typically had the reference number engraved on the inside of the caseback, modern Omega watches do not have reference numbers on them. Therefore, if you no longer have any of the official paperwork of the watch, you’ll have to do some research to find out the exact reference number of the Omega watch you want to sell.
Here are some things you can do to find out your Omega’s reference number without any accompanying papers:
- Research the main Omega collections on the company’s website to pinpoint your model
- Google some of your watch’s details (model, material, dial color, bracelet type) and see if anything similar comes up
- Take a photo of the Omega you want to sell and do a Google image search
- Post a photo of your watch on a forum (such as Omega Forums or r/Watches on Reddit) and see if a member can help you ID the watch
- Take it to an authorized Omega dealer to request the information
- Order an Omega Extract from the Archives (more on that later)
Omega Serial Numbers
As is customary with high-end timepieces, each Omega watch has a unique serial number, which includes either 7 or 8 digits.
Depending on the model, the Omega serial number (sometimes referred to as the case number) can be found on the movement, the exterior caseback, the interior caseback, or on the back of the lugs. These numbers are issued sequentially, which can help determine an approximate manufacturing year. There are a number of Omega serial number charts online that you can cross reference. However, keep in mind that these aren’t official tables made by Omega but rather, information put together by Omega enthusiasts and collectors. So, take the information with a grain of salt.
It’s worth mentioning that the movement number and the serial number are sometimes the same. Another important point to be aware of is that Omega uses a different serial number system for the Speedmaster, so if you’re trying to calculate when your Speedmaster was made, make sure you’re looking at the correct serial number chart.
Although you should never publically show your watch’s serial number (always blur it out in pictures), potential buyers may eventually want to know what it is to affirm that the Omega watch you’re selling is authentic.
Gather Documentation and Packaging
Having the box and papers of any watch you’re selling will always increase the value of your set. In some cases, a complete set can sell for 10 to 20% more than naked watches. Therefore, if you have any of the original paperwork (warranty cards, receipts, service records, and instruction booklets), packaging (boxes, cushions, and bags), and accessories (additional straps or tools) of the Omega watch you want to sell somewhere in your possession, then take the time to find them all.
Omega also offers an Extract from the Archives service, which provides official documentation of your specific watch. Bear in mind that the brand clearly states that an extract from its archives is not the same as a certificate of authenticity. Depending on your region, you can order an Omega Extract from the Archives for CHF 120 directly from the company’s website. However, U.S.-based clients cannot order one online but they can request one from an Omega authorized dealer for $150.
You can also order a Certificate of Authenticity from Omega. However, the watch has to be at least 30 years old and you’ll have to send your timepiece to the company for inspection. The process costs CHF 800 and can take up to two months. Depending on the value and rarity of the Omega watch you want to sell, this may not be worth the time or cost.
Figure Out How Much Your Omega is Worth
Once you have your reference number and documentation ready, it’s time to research how much you could potentially get for selling your Omega watch.
Omega publishes the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) on its website. While this information is good to know, what’s actually relevant when reselling an Omega watch is its current market value. With the exception of a few collectibles (such as the Speedmaster Snoopy), most Omega watches will sell for less than retail on the secondary market.
You can start your price research with our guide to How Much Does an Omega Speedmaster Cost? Following that, for more Omega watch market prices, you can also check:
- eBay sold listings
- Chrono24
- WatchCharts
- Pre-Owned Watch Specialist and Grey Market Dealer Websites
Always be mindful that the prices you see online will generally be higher than what you’ll get paid for your watch. Not only do businesses have costs and margins to contend with but it’s customary for private sellers to start out with a higher published price to allow room for negotiations. In short, be realistic about what you will end up pocketing when you sell your Omega watch.
Should I Service My Omega Watch Before Selling It?
The prices for servicing an Omega watch can be costly, generally ranging from $500 to well over $1,000. So, is it worth servicing your Omega watch before reselling it? The quick answer is no. Barring complete disrepair, we typically do not recommend servicing any watch before selling it for a few reasons.
First, vintage watches will always be valued more if they have their original factory components. Servicing an older Omega watch may mean that some of those original parts will be replaced.
Second, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to cover that additional cost with the final selling price of your watch.
And finally, if you sell your Omega directly to a grey market dealer, they’ll take care of any maintenance requirements before selling it to someone else.
Sell Your Omega Watch to Luxury Bazaar
If you truly want a hassle-free route, then sell your Omega to Luxury Bazaar. From Speedmasters and Seamasters to De Villes and Constellations, Luxury Bazaar has decades of experience buying thousands of Omega watches from satisfied clients.
Simply request an offer from us and we’ll guide you through the whole process, which we promise will be straightforward, secure, and convenient.
