This Watch

A beautifully simple, properly slim Omega De Ville from 1979, and one of those watches that proves less really can be more. This is a clean two-hand mechanical model (no seconds hand, no date) with a warm gold / champagne dial that shifts subtly with the light. The whole look is minimalist and elegant—thin baton hour markers, fine matching hands, and that understated “De Ville” script that does all the talking without shouting. Even has the original omega signed ub Glass.

On the wrist it wears incredibly easily and, in our opinion, sits right in that sweet spot where it can be a his or hers watch depending on strap choice. It’s also a genuinely sensible entry point for someone wanting a proper vintage Omega: classic design, in-house mechanical movement, and the sort of timeless dress-watch silhouette that always looks intentional.  A Heavy gold layer over metal with a steel back in pretty much unused condition. We have opted for some colour with the strap but happy to swap out for an 18mm of your choice.

 Extra Points 

Founded by Louis Brandt in 1848, Omega started out as La Generale Watch Co., an unassuming, but international business.   It wasn't until 1885, when the company had been taken over by Louis' sons, that the first mass-produced caliber, the Labrador, was released.  By 1903, the company had renamed itself Omega and only two years later were they the official timekeepers at many sporting events across Switzerland.  Omega stepped onto an international stage in 1932 as the official timekeepers at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the first of over 20 Olympic Games. Omega were one of the 12 companies, now known as the Dirty Dozen, commissioned to produce watches for the British Military during the Second World War.  One of Omega's most iconic watches, the Seamaster, was introduced in 1948 to celebrate their 100th anniversary.  Over 70 years later, it is still one of Omega's best selling watches.  Omega made headlines in 1962 when Wally Schirra wore the Speedmaster as part of NASA's first crewed spaceflight programme, making the Speedmaster the first watch to enter space.  It was only a few years before the Speedmaster became the official chronograph for the American space missions and was worn by Buzz Aldrin as well as the Apollo 13 crew.  Omega are still involved with NASA and have been instrumental in creating vital pieces of equipment for space exploration. 

This watch comes fully serviced by our on-site workshop and with a 12 month, non-waterproof service cover.

This is the sort of Omega you buy because you want something refined and wearable every day, not because you want to flex. The De Ville line has always been about clean proportions and understated quality, and this reference nails it. Put it on a black strap and it’s sharp and formal; on something lighter it becomes an easy, smart-casual daily wearer. A really honest, good-looking vintage Omega that does exactly what it’s supposed to.