
Dr No shares a detailed and cautionary tale about the acquisition and restoration of an Omega Flightmaster 910, intended for a friend. This narrative highlights the increasing difficulty of sourcing original vintage parts and the unexpected challenges that can arise even with seemingly 'New Old Stock' pieces. Dr No's experience underscores the dedication and perseverance required in vintage watch collecting, particularly when dealing with rare references and international logistics.








The Omega Flightmaster reference 145.013, powered by the caliber 910, represents a distinctive offering within the brand's chronograph catalog from the early 1970s. This particular reference is notable for its integrated chronograph and GMT functions, distinguishing it from other chronographs of the period that typically offered only timekeeping and stopwatch capabilities. Its design and functionality catered to a specific segment of watch enthusiasts seeking advanced utility.
This reference features a robust stainless steel case, housing the manual-winding Omega Caliber 910. The case diameter is 43mm, providing a substantial presence on the wrist. The watch is fitted with a mineral crystal, known for its durability. The movement offers a power reserve of 40 hours, ensuring reliable operation over an extended period. The case construction also provides a degree of water resistance suitable for daily wear.
Collectors often seek out the 145.013 for its unique combination of complications and its distinctive aesthetic. The multi-layered dial and multiple crowns are characteristic design elements that set it apart. This reference appeals to those interested in chronographs with additional functionality, representing a specific period of innovation in mechanical watchmaking.
Having gone through an 18-month ordeal to get this crown/stem replaced after I broke it myself ... We are crazy, aren’t we?! Mike PS - Art, you can expect to receive a use tax bill from Calif, because when you have a Fedex account, they forward your declared value for any packages to Sacramento. Sadly.
. . . but wasn't aware of California liability. I guess that's the last time I use that FedEx account!
I had one back in around 1970 (it was my first real watch) and I see them on ebay, Chrono and other places all the time.
... not only with the purchase but the later restoration work to be done to it! I´m happy all came to a good end, but only regret all the extra work, time and efforts you had to devote to this project (including some personal painting skills!! Lol!) which I thank you so much as I wouldn´t accomplish myself locally as at this time I´m still "orphan" of a good watchmaker to rely this kind of work, much less the way of bringing the watch and the required spare parts safely to my home. As Cazalea co
. . . over ~ two years. Yellow hand variants are less common than orange. So yes, they're not exactly scarce, but they're not commonplace, either. Finding one in excellent condition doesn't happen every day. I was searching for the better part of a decade before latching onto mine. Cordially, Art
... Yes, this is a crazy hobby and we need a bit of madness in our souls to go through all the matters required to hunt, find and capture our pieces and to put them in good order afterwards to be able to enjoy them. We are rewarded with the pleasure of meeting so many nice persons along that long and crazy voyage of collecting watches... or other objects. All the best, Abel.
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