Omega - Seamaster 'Serviced' - 166.010 - Men - 1968

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage The Omega Seamaster line has long been a pillar of the brand's heritage, representing a perfect synthesis of elegant design and robust engineering. Introduced in the late 1940s, the Seamaster quickly became the benchmark for a versatile everyday watch that could transition effortlessly from formal settings to active pursuits. This particular reference 166.010 from the late 1960s captures the essence of mid-century Omega design, featuring a beautifully preserved silver dial, the iconic "Beads of Rice" bracelet, and the reliable caliber 565 automatic movement. It stands as a testament to Omega's golden era of watchmaking, offering collectors a classic and highly wearable piece of horological history. Brand: Omega Model: Seamaster Reference Number: 166.010 Serial Number: 26432700 Movement: Automatic Caliber 565 Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied indices, showing excellent preservation Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, fully serviced Dial and Hands The dial of this Seamaster is a striking silver sunburst that remains remarkably clean and well-preserved. It features applied, faceted baton indices with black onyx inserts, which provide excellent contrast and legibility. The applied Omega logo and printed text, including the classic cursive "Seamaster," are crisp and fully intact. A framed date window sits at the three o'clock position. The dauphine hands, also featuring black inserts, are in excellent condition, complementing the indices perfectly. The dial shows minimal signs of aging, presenting a bright and highly attractive appearance that is increasingly difficult to find in watches of this era. Case and Crystal The 35mm stainless steel case displays strong, well-defined lines, particularly on the robust lugs that characteristic of this reference. The transition between the polished bezel and the brushed case sides remains clear. The caseback features the iconic Seamaster hippocampus medallion, which is deeply engraved and highly detailed, indicating careful wear over the decades. The original Omega-signed crown is present and functional. The watch is fitted with its original domed acrylic (hesalite) crystal, correct for the period. The crystal is clear and free from significant scratches or imperfections, allowing an unobstructed view of the pristine dial beneath. Movement Powering this Seamaster is the highly regarded Omega caliber 565 automatic movement, featuring 24 jewels and a quickset date function. The movement components display Omega's signature copper-colored plating, which remains bright and visually impressive. The serial number 26432700 dates the production to approximately 1968. The watch has been recently serviced and is performing exceptionally well. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece, the timegrapher shows a deviation of +1 to +2 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with its original Omega stainless steel "Beads of Rice" bracelet, reference 1036 with 511 endlinks. The bracelet exhibits the classic, comfortable drape that these are famous for, with polished center beads and brushed outer links. The Omega-signed folding clasp is in excellent condition, showing only light surface wear consistent with careful use. The bracelet accommodates a wrist size of up to 18cm. Condition This Omega Seamaster is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case retains strong geometry with normal, light signs of wear. The dial is exceptionally clean, free from notable spots or damage, retaining its original sunburst finish beautifully. The movement is visually clean and mechanically sound following a recent service. The original bracelet remains tight and highly wearable. Overall, this is a remarkably well-preserved example of a classic reference. Dimensions Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 18 cm Remarks This reference 166.010 is a quintessential example of 1960s Omega design, combining the elegance of a dress watch with the durability expected from the Seamaster line. The combination of the pristine silver dial, the iconic Beads of Rice bracelet, and the freshly serviced caliber 565 movement makes this a highly desirable piece for both seasoned collectors and those looking for their first significant vintage watch. History Launched in 1948 to celebrate Omega's 100th anniversary, the Seamaster was initially designed as a robust, water-resistant dress watch, drawing on the brand's experience producing watches for the British military during World War II. By the 1960s, the Seamaster line had expanded to include dedicated dive watches, but the core collection remained focused on elegant, versatile timepieces like the reference 166.010. These watches were favored for their reliability, timeless aesthetics, and the exceptional quality of Omega's in-house movements, solidifying the Seamaster's reputation as one of the most important and enduring model lines in horological history. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OSX-0009