Omega - Electronic f300 Hz Seamaster Chronometer - No reserve price - 198.001 - Men - 1970

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage The late 1960s and early 1970s represented a fascinating turning point in horological history, a period where traditional watchmakers sought absolute precision through the innovative tuning fork mechanism. This Omega Seamaster Chronometer stands as a superb artifact from that brief but highly collectible era. Combining the robust, timeless design language of the Seamaster line with a chronometer-certified electronic heart, this timepiece offers a unique sweeping seconds hand and a distinctive mechanical hum. Preserved in remarkable condition, it presents a rare opportunity to acquire a pristine example of Omega's early foray into high-frequency timekeeping, distinguished by its striking red logo and captivating textured dial. Brand: Omega Model: Electronic f300 Hz Seamaster Chronometer Reference Number: 198.001 Serial Number: 32020753 Movement: Caliber 1250 Tuning Fork Dial: Vertically brushed silver dial with applied black indices, red Omega shield, and perfectly aged creamy lume pips, presenting in exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: Circa 1970 Condition: Stunning vintage condition with outstanding preservation and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Seamaster is a visual triumph, featuring a striking vertically brushed silver surface that catches the light beautifully. At twelve o'clock sits the iconic applied red Omega shield, providing a brilliant pop of color against the monochromatic background. The typography is crisp and varied, with clean sans-serif text for the electronic designation and an elegant cursive script for the Seamaster name. The hours are marked by applied, faceted black indices with polished silver accents, adding deep contrast and legibility. Positioned at the outer edge of these indices are original, intact lume pips that have aged to a highly attractive creamy pumpkin tone. The matching black faceted hour and minute hands retain their original luminous inserts, matching the patina of the dial pips perfectly. A simple, silver-framed date window sits at three o'clock. Upon close inspection, the dial is exceptionally clean, free from spots, moisture marks, or surface degradation, showcasing a truly impressive level of preservation. Case and Crystal The 36 millimeter stainless steel case is protected by a domed acrylic crystal that enhances the vintage character of the watch. The case architecture remains sharp and well-defined, featuring a smooth, highly polished bezel that frames the dial perfectly. The lugs exhibit a beautiful transition, retaining strong factory-style brushing on their upper surfaces that contrasts cleanly with the polished case flanks. The watch is fitted with its original scalloped Omega-signed crown, which remains crisp to the touch. The screw-down caseback features a brushed central medallion surrounded by a polished outer ring, bearing internal engravings that confirm the reference number. The case shows only honest, light handling marks and superficial surface wear consistent with careful vintage use, maintaining excellent overall structural integrity. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Omega Caliber 1250 tuning fork movement, a chronometer-certified mechanism licensed by Bulova, as proudly noted on the inner caseback. The movement is beautifully presented with rich, copper-toned base plates and bridges. Close inspection reveals the distinctive twin tuning fork coils that drive the smooth, sweeping motion of the seconds hand. The movement is clearly stamped with the Omega nomenclature, the caliber number 1250, and the serial number 32020753, which places its production around 1970. The mechanical components and electrical contacts appear well-preserved, reflecting the high standards of Omega's electronic era. Strap The watch is currently paired with a period-correct black textured leather strap, featuring a woven or scaled pattern that perfectly complements the vintage aesthetic of the dial indices. The strap is detailed with contrasting white edge stitching and is secured by a classic stainless steel pin buckle, offering a comfortable and stylish wear on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is presented in stunning vintage condition. The primary value driver, the vertically brushed dial, is flawlessly preserved with no visible damage, staining, or print loss, and boasts highly attractive, even patina on the luminous elements. The case retains strong, defined lines and sharp transitions between its brushed and polished surfaces, exhibiting only minor, age-appropriate wear. The crystal is clear and free of distracting scratches. The movement is visibly clean and structurally sound, making this an exceptionally well-preserved collector's piece. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 36 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. Remarks Tuning fork watches represent a highly specific and cherished niche within vintage watch collecting. This Omega Seamaster Chronometer elevates that appeal through its incredible aesthetic condition, specifically the flawless brushed dial and the striking red applied logo. It is a watch that offers significant historical intrigue, a unique user experience through its sweeping hand and faint hum, and immense everyday wearability thanks to its classic Seamaster case proportions. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Omega f300 Hz line utilized tuning fork technology developed by Max Hetzel and licensed from Bulova. Operating at a frequency of 300 Hertz, these movements offered accuracy that far surpassed traditional mechanical escapements of the era, easily achieving chronometer certification. This technology represented the absolute pinnacle of horological precision just prior to the widespread adoption of quartz movements. Today, these electronic Omegas are celebrated not only for their historical significance as the bridge between mechanical and quartz eras but also for their robust build quality and distinctive, forward-looking designs. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OSC-0013