Omega Watches
Since the company was founded in 1848, Omega has pioneered a huge range of innovations. Britain’s Royal Flying Corps chose Omega watches in 1917 as official timekeepers for its pilots and again in 1940, RAF Pilots watches were supplied by Omega. The 40s also saw the first tourbillon wristwatch and the first of the famous Seamaster watches, whilst the 50s and 60s introduced the legendary Constellation, Speedmaster, Seamaster 300 and Railmaster. Over the years, everyone from John F. Kennedy to Elvis wore Omega watches on official duties. What’s more, in 1962, astronaut Wally Schirra took his Omega Speedmaster to space on NASA’s Mercury Sigma 7 mission, and in 1969 two Speedmasters landed on the moon, worn by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin.
Description
Here we have a beautiful example of the now very sought after Omega Seamaster De Ville, here in 18ct pink gold and steel with a ‘starburst’ cross-hair dial. This model reference 166.020 also has an advanced two-piece watch case for improved water and dust protection. Omega Seamasters are highly regarded for their accuracy and dependability and the De Ville model is now becoming very popular among collectors. We should mention that a matching original pink gold Omega signed crown has been fitted since the watch was photographed.
The Dial
The style here is classic 1960s Omega, comprising of a silver-white starburst dial with onyx inlaid applied ‘baton’ hour indices, matched with the original, classic ‘Index’ hands. The dial carries an applied gilt Omega brand and is signed ‘Omega’, ‘Automatic’ with ‘Seamaster’ and ‘De Ville’ in the lower part of the dial and ‘Swiss Made’ at the very bottom below the ‘6’.
The dial catches the light beautifully, as we have tried to demonstrate in the photographs, however it looks much better face to face in real life.
A new correct Omega signed original replacement lens has been fitted as part of the restoration.
This is the original dial which has been restored to the highest standards by our dial restorers, who are considered the best in the UK.
Movement
This is the top grade Cal.562, 24 Jewel movement which is the same movement as used in the top of the range, Chronometer rated, Omega Constellation during this period. This movement is very highly regarded for its accuracy and reliability. Here, the beryllium bronze movement is in absolutely tip-top condition and looks as good in fact, as the day it was made!
The movement has been fully overhauled and serviced, meaning complete disassembly of the watch movement to all its component parts, careful inspection under high magnification, replacement where necessary with only genuine Omega parts, then careful reassembly and adjustment before final calibration. The watch, therefore, winds, sets and runs perfectly accurately and reliably within +8 seconds per day, averaged over 5 positions. This is no exaggeration, we have checked and confirmed these test results on our electronic watch timegrapher. Please bear in mind, this level of performance is outstanding for any watch, particularly of this age. The movement also has a tremendous 50-hour power reserve when fully wound. We are therefore pleased to be able to offer 12 month warranty with this watch*.
The movement is signed ‘Omega Watch Co Swiss’ along with the Calibre number 562, 24 Jewels, and the movement serial number 19853511 which dates manufacture of the movement to 1962.
* Please note – our 12 months’ warranty is only applicable if the list price is paid.
The Case
The solid pink gold and steel watch case measures 34.5mm in diameter, excluding the original signed Omega winding crown, so this would have been a large-sized gentleman’s watch during the 1960s. As mentioned above, a correct Omega signed pink gold crown has been fitted since this watch was photographed, which we feel has completed the watch rather nicely and has brought it almost entirely back to ‘as new’ condition.
This watch case is in very good vintage condition, with only very light scuffing and scratching appearing visible to the naked eye. On the rear of the case-back is the Seamaster motif, which is in very sharp and crisp condition. This, along with the superb condition of the rest of the watch case, indicates this watch has received an excellent level of care and only light use.
Inside the case-back all is correct and as expected, signed with the Omega Watch Co. triangle branding. The case-back also carries the model reference number 166.020.
The bezel and lugs of this two-piece case are made of 18ct pink gold whereas the case-back is made of steel. Two-piece cases are by their very nature, much more resistant to dust, water and moisture, than a traditional three piece watch case. While all the rubber seals have been replaced, the watch has not been tested for water resistance and this is not guaranteed.
As ever, our standard advice applies: Vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times.
The Strap & Buckle
A new, brown alligator strap has been fitted with a pink gold-plated Omega buckle, which we feel finishes this watch perfectly. However, if a different colour or style of strap is preferred, please do let us know and we will do our best to oblige, free of charge. We carry Tan, Conker, Dark Brown and Black in stock in plain padded leather, crocodile skin or lizard skin. We can also obtain most types and colours from our partners at ‘Watch Obsession’ within 48hrs. Please take a look at their wonderful range of 18mm straps if you wish here.
Box and Papers
Although there are no original papers with this watch, all the numbers and markings on the watch are correct, dating the watch to 1962.
Our detailed ‘Particulars’ document will be included in the sale, with our detailed receipt and our 12 months warranty*. A separate insurance valuation for the replacement value of this watch will also be provided at the time of sale along with our unique ‘Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee’ which states: “If this watch proves to be anything less than totally authentic, or not as described, Vintage Gold Watches of London will offer you a full refund at any time”.
A hardwood presentation box, as shown in the photographs, is included in the sale of this watch.
In Conclusion
This is a charming and totally original watch and even though it is over 50 years old, it is still completely fresh, reliable and practical to wear as a daily watch. It is also an item of beauty and individuality, and a superb example of a classic 1960s vintage Seamaster De Ville from one of horology’s most famous names, in superb fully restored condition.
If treated with care, this watch will remain a simply wonderful timepiece, to use, wear, treasure and enjoy. It will also provide excellent reliability as well as a sound financial investment, as long-lasting as the watch itself. As each year goes by and the world market for vintage Omega watches grows, limited supply and high demand from around the world will mean prices will inevitably climb ever higher!
A word on our prices – We always try our hardest to acquire the very highest quality watches we can find, before restoring them to the highest possible standards. We then offer these at the fairest prices we can, taking into account our pre and post sales care and service. This approach means we will never be the cheapest, but nor will we be the most expensive. Indeed there are some well-known stores in West London which are highly successful charging between two to three times the price you see here. We therefore consider our prices to be fair, given the quality of watches we have to offer.
We are happy to accept PayPal as this is the quickest method of payment. However, if you would like to pay by UK cheque or by UK bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this and pass on a 3% saving to you. Similarly, if you wish to pay by International SWIFT or Bank Wire Transfer we will provide you with our BIC / Swift number and our IBAN number.
Please note, we welcome part exchanges. If you have a watch or small collection for sale, please contact us as we will be happy to discuss this.
We will also be happy to Service your watch, Repair your watch or Restore your watch, all at ‘sensible’ prices. Please see here.
If you have any questions please call on our Landline 0207 727 7095 or Mobile 07515 949250 or if calling from overseas, on Landline +44 207 727 7095 or Mobile +44 7515 949250.
Please take a look at our other fine vintage gold watches.
Thank you.
Andrew M via feefo 
3rd December 2024 
JLC1891 
