From a small workshop in La Chaux-de-Fonds to the surface of the Moon. A short history of Omega, and what it means for collecting today.
HistoryBy [Author][n] min read
Few watchmakers have a history as public as Omega's. Its watches timed the Olympic Games, went to sea with divers and were worn on the Moon. For collectors, that history is written into every dial, caseback and calibre.
It began in 1848, when Louis Brandt started assembling pocket watches in La Chaux-de-Fonds. His sons moved the company to Biel in 1880 and, in 1894, launched a movement so successful that its name, Omega, became the name of the company itself in 1903.
“[A short quote from Stan or the team on why vintage Omega matters.]”
The lines you will meet most often in vintage Omega
Since 1957
The chronograph that went to the Moon. Early examples use the calibre 321, later ones the 861 introduced in 1968.
Shop SpeedmasterSince 1948
From elegant everyday watches to serious divers like the Seamaster 300. The widest family, and full of surprises.
Since 1952
Omega’s chronometer line, known for its observatory medallion on the caseback and the faceted pie-pan dials.
1950s to 1970s
Omega’s everyday line: honest, well-made watches that are still an accessible way into vintage Omega.
Since 1960
Began as the Seamaster De Ville and became a line of its own later in the decade. Dressier, often with unusual cases.
Four things we look at on every Omega that comes in. Worth checking on any watch you consider.
Original and matching, with lume that has aged together. Refinished dials are worth far less to collectors.
The reference inside the caseback should match the case, dial and calibre of that period.
Check the movement serial against the production period, and ask about the last service.
Omega can issue an extract from its archives confirming production and delivery. It adds certainty, and value.
