RESTORED! Birthday Watch! 1974 Omega Geneve Cal 1030, 136.0104, Tool-9070 Hi-Beat Mechanical Watch (OH)

A BIRTHDAY WATCH IS A WATCH THAT WAS PRODUCED THE SAME MONTH AND YEAR AS YOUR BIRTHDAY.

Type: Mechanical
Model: Omega Geneve Tool-9070 Series
Year of Production: 1974
Movement: 1030 / 136.0104
BPH: 28,800 Hi-Beat
Number of Jewels: 17
Hand and Dial: 3D Gold-Filled Baton Indices and Hands. 20 Micron Gold-Plated Dial and Case
Width: 35mm
Height: 42mm
Thickness: 9.5mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Strap: Brand-New Hi-Quality Genuine Snake Calf Leather with Gold Buckle
Pouch / Box: Brand-New EVA Type Zipper Pouch

"The Genève line was introduced in 1952 (some say '53), and, with the exception of the very low production Chronometres, sat at the top of OMEGA's model line of hand-wind watches throughout the 1950s. The cases featured elegantly chamfered lugs, and the indexes were made of gold. The 30mm movements, while no different from those used in other models of the period, had achieved notable success in the Geneva Observatory Trials (along with Neuchâtel, and others). In 1945 an early version won first prize, which was followed by other awards and records set during the 1950s. So, Omega chose to use Genève as a reference to those successes, and obviously applied the name to a high-end model" - Tony C of Omega.

Here we have a completely overhauled Omega Topo-9070, Cal 1030 in almost MINT condition. Unlike the previous calibers, the 1030 received international recognition when it gained 7 times a 0.0 second divergence during it’s official chronometer testing! Remarkable is an understatement for such precision from a mechanical (non-quartz) timepiece!

This beautifully preserved watch was carefully stripped and every part was meticulously washed via controlled ultrasonic immersion, oiled, re-assembled and calibrated on 27 August 2023. In short, it was given a full restoration and not a standard touch-up service, and should be able to operate without servicing for the next 5 to 10 years at the very least thereby providing the owner peace of mind.

Its 3D 14K solid gold indices, hands, date window and gold-plated dial were painstakingly cleaned and are now in mint condition; so too its gold plated case.

Its typical vintage style gold plated case was buffed as best as possible without compromising its shape, lines and gold-plating albeit a few minor scratches that are barely noticeable to the naked eye. The crystal is original and made from high quality acrylic. Tiny scratches are found on the glass. I will replace the glass FOC with an aftermarket glass should the buyer wishes me to do so.

The crown is located at the traditional 3H position and is easily accessible. The date and time quickset works flawlessly by pulling out the crown to the first (date) and second (time) levels for adjustment accordingly.

Equipped with the well revered 1030 movement, it has 17 Jewels and operate at a high-beat 28,800 beats per hour (BPH) giving it excellent accuracy and longevity. The time-grapher, after 60 hours of calibration, shows excellent readings i.e. rate of 0 seconds every 24 hours and amplitude of 181! Such readings are almost impossible to achieve even in modern brand new automatic watches whereby the accepted tolerance is -20 to +40 seconds a day! This is a testament to the quality, excellent power reserve and longevity for such a vintage timepiece, the meticulous care provided over the years, and of course the painstaking expert calibration conducted.

The case width and height are approximately 35mm (with crown) and 42mm respectively; the lug width is 18mm; and the leather strap can accommodate wrists up to 21.0cm with ease. Hence, this watch is suitable for men and the modern women.

A brand new high quality vintage style snake calf leather strap is provided as part of the deal. 

Due to its age, this timepiece has not been water-resistant tested.

The pictures provided show the watch is in mint condition, and the movement within is squeaky clean and well maintained. It has also been demagnetised to improve parts reliability, minimise wear & tear, and improve accuracy. The only drawback is the lack of documentation and original box. An aftermarket box or purposeful carrying case will be provided instead.

Bear in mind that this watch has seen many of the previous owners’ ups and downs in life, and should be cherished and preserved for the next generation to savour such engineering beauty.

Yes, there are many other same / similar models in the market, BUT none as beautifully aged and as well maintained as what you see here. Hence, it is a no-brainer that this one-of-a-kind watch will make an extremely beautiful birthday present for that special someone born in 1974! Another no-brainer is the fact that the value of this watch will appreciate over time.

Do note that this particular 20 micron gold-filled model is extremely rare. Most Topo-9070 models found in the market are of stainless steel that are normally cheaper in value compared to this baby!

Do also bear in mind that it will cost between S$ 400.00 to S$ 800.00 for a proper overhaul and S$ 150.00 to calibrate an Omega timepiece; and S$ 60.00 to buff a gold-plated watch case - these costs do not apply when purchasing this timepiece. So, if anyone was to sell such a timepiece at a low price yet claim that it has been serviced, one has to ask what kind of servicing was conducted, if any.

This is a highly sort-after Omega Tool-9030 Cal 1030 Hi-Beat Mechanical Watch; so, be unique and wear something that is almost impossible to source.

I daresay that this watch is simply stunning in real time.

This is a must-have for the Omega die-hard fan, and in fact, any serious watch collector for that matter!