Omega watches are some of the most sophisticated and stylish watches in the market. As their popularity and prominence has grown, so has the production of counterfeits of some of their best-selling models, including Seamasters, Speedmasters and more.
But unlike authentic Omega watches, durability, accuracy and functionality are usually sacrificed on these replicas. Therefore, before purchasing what you think to be an authentic Omega watch, it is best to check whether the timepiece is in fact genuine.
Here are some telling factors:
Omega Serial number
The omega serial number is a 7 or 8 digit number engraved on the case back of the watch during its production. All Omega watches are stamped with the seven or eight digit serial number. Simply run a cross-referencing search on the serial number displayed on the watch in question. If it does not match, it is a fake.
Omega Serial number location
The omega serial number is usually located on the case back for most models. On vintage Omega timepieces, the serial number is engraved on the inside of the case back whereas on modern models, it is typically engraved on the bottom of one of the lugs.
Dial
Omega watches usually have intricately detailed dials so if the watch in question does not, it is likely not authentic.
When analysing the dial, first look at the spelling of any text that is present. Typos or errors will mean that it is a counterfeit watch.
Similarly, check the spacing of the various elements on the dial, including markers and letters, for example. If these are not precise, you are more than likely looking at a fake Omega timepiece.
The Omega Logo
The quality of the Omega logo on the watch dial is another good indicator of the authenticity of the watch.
However, to save time and costs, it is common for the logo to be painted directly onto the surface of counterfeit models.
Hands
Omega have spent years investing and innovating their complex hand movement. This ensures a smooth and seamless ticking motion. Therefore, a stuttering second hand would indicate that the watch is fake.
When you pull the crown to adjust the time, the second hand should stop, which is what ensures the brand’s utmost accuracy and precision in timekeeping. If however, the second hand continues to move, then watch is not an authentic Omega model.
Sound
Similarly, the innovation into watch movements has allowed for Omega’s timepieces to be completely silent, as opposed to the ticking sound made by quartz watches.
Therefore, a watch claiming to be an Omega but which makes a sound, is likely to be a replica.
Lumes
The luminescent features of a genuine Omega watch are what give it its functionality and practicality. This is particularly true with Seamaster models, which have been designed and developed for diving.
Designed for divers to be able to see in the dark depths of underwater settings, Omega watches feature luminescent time markers, hands and a dot on the rotating bezel.
On authentic models, these should remain luminated for considerable lengths of time when charged and the reflective surface of these elements should stretch their whole shape, rather than appearing as thin lines.
The valve
Built to be water-resistant, Seamaster watches come fitted with a helium escape valve. Again, to save time and costs, replica models either do not, or the valve that appears to be present does not work.
The location of the valve is also an indicator of the watch’s authenticity. On genuine Omega models, the bottom of the valve sits precisely at the 10 o’clock position. It’s common for replicas to look similar, but the 10 o’clock point often sits in the middle or top of the valve instead.
Crown position
Omega watches have been designed with consideration of every detail and function. It is rare, if not impossible, for a model to feature an element that does not have a strict and specific purpose. However, with counterfeit models, this isn’t always the case.
Designed to simply look the part, some replicas feature more than one crown position, which either do not work or have no corresponding dial. In these cases, you can be certain that the watch is not authentic.
Date window
The date window and its magnification are another element that Swiss luxury watchmakers have spent years innovating and perfecting. So much so that any counterfeit producers simply would not be able to achieve the same effect, and consequently, this can instantly give away that their watches are fake.
To determine the authenticity of the watch, check that the date sits at the centre of the window and that numbers cover the entire space.
If you have any doubts of the authenticity of an Omega watch, please take your watch to your nearest Omega retailer and they will check the authenticity for you.
Alternatively, we source and stock an extensive collection of authentic Omega watches.
