It is very hard not to get excited by this special watch - a rare Omega with the most stunningly designed midi case. It has a military / pilots feel to it . with bronze/copper-hour , minute hands and an almost Rolex explorer type dial configuration. A sleek, blue-steel central second hand give the watch a sense of symmetry. The dial has undoubtedly been previously restored many years ago and has aged in keeping, In our opinion it does not detract from this 89 year old master. We must also mention this period correct Oyster style steel sprung bracelet which suits the watch style and age perfectly!
Housed in this unusual three piece - fully omega signed staybrite steel case, with a circular stepped ring bezel and slightly horned lugs . Fully serviced by us and running strongly. The same omega caliber 23.4sc movement was used in the 1940 British Air ministry Omega “Weems” RAF Mk VIIA Wristwatch 6b/159
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.
For a watch of this age, we would recommend that it is considered for occasional use, once or twice a week. This is largely because watches of this age weren't built to deal with modern life. They do not have dust proofing, shock absorption and are easily magnetised. Please do try and keep the watch away from magnets such as computers, phones, speakers etc.
This watch has been fully serviced in our on-site workshop and comes with a 12 month, non-waterproof service cover.
What we think
This watch is a stunning example of a 1930s, military-style / pilots watch that would also work beautifully as a dress watch. If you're looking for an affordable, attractive and reliable vintage watch, you'd be pushed to find a better example. Perfect for a vintage-watch newbie or seasoned collector and it can be switched from bracelet to strap at your leisure.
Spec Stuff
Serial : 849****
Movement : 23.4sc Age :1931/1940 Specific Age : 1934 Case Size :31mm Case Thickness : 9.5mm Lug to Lug : 36mm Lugs : 16mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : No Case Material : Stainless Steel Service History : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
1934 Rare Omega Calatrava style stepped bezel watch in Stainless Steel on period Bracelet
