Omega Seamaster Cosmic 165.026 (1967)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This is a quintessential example of 1960s Omega design, featuring the distinctive monocoque case architecture that defined the Seamaster Cosmic line. Combining a reliable Caliber 552 automatic movement with a clean, sophisticated aesthetic, this timepiece represents a golden era of Swiss watchmaking. The uni-shell case design was engineered to improve water resistance and durability, making this a significant model in Omega's mid-century history. With its elegant sunburst dial and warm gold tones, it remains a highly wearable and collectible dress watch. Brand: Omega Model: Seamaster Cosmic Reference Number: 165.026 Serial Number: 25985182 Movement: Omega Caliber 552 Automatic Dial: Silver sunburst with applied gold indices Case Size: 35 mm Case Material: Gold Plated (20 Microns) Production Year: 1967 Condition: Good vintage condition. The movement has been tested and shows reliable performance (-10-11s/day), indicating a healthy mechanism. Dial and Hands The watch features a beautiful silver sunburst dial that has been remarkably well-preserved. It is adorned with applied gold baton hour markers, each featuring a black inlay for enhanced contrast and legibility. The matching gold stick hands also feature black inserts and luminous fill, complementing the indices perfectly. The applied gold Omega logo sits proudly at the 12 o'clock position, while the "Seamaster Cosmic" script at 6 o'clock remains crisp and distinct. The overall presentation of the dial is clean, offering a classic dress watch aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 35mm case utilizes Omega's innovative monocoque (one-piece) design, accessed through the crystal side to minimize entry points for moisture. The case is gold-plated to 20 microns, as indicated by the stamps inside the case back. While the case retains its distinctive shape, there is visible wear and plating loss, particularly on the sharp edges of the lugs and the underside of the case, which is consistent with honest vintage use. The case back features the iconic Seamaster Hippocampus and "Waterproof" engraving, along with the "Tool 107" designation. The crown is original and signed with the Omega logo. Movement Powering this timepiece is the highly regarded Omega Caliber 552, a 24-jewel automatic movement known for its robustness and precision. The copper-colored finish of the bridges is visually striking and characteristic of Omega's high-quality production from this era. The movement is clean and currently running within vintage tolerances, with timegrapher results showing -10 to -11 seconds per day and strong amplitude, offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a classic black leather strap that complements the gold tones of the case and the black accents on the dial. The strap is in excellent, unworn condition and is finished with a gold-tone pin buckle, making the watch ready for immediate wear. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The dial is the highlight, presenting in excellent to near-mint condition with minimal signs of aging. The case shows honest signs of history, with evident plating wear on the lug edges and corners, adding to its vintage character. The crystal is clear, and the movement is mechanically sound, running with good amplitude. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown, a classic size that offers a refined presence on the wrist. The lug design integrates smoothly into the case body, typical of the Cosmic line's streamlined profile. Remarks The Seamaster Cosmic 165.026 is a testament to Omega's ability to combine technical innovation with timeless style. The use of the Caliber 552, often cited by watchmakers as one of the best full-rotor automatic movements ever made, ensures that this watch is not just a display piece but a reliable daily companion. The unique case shape distinguishes it from standard round dress watches of the period, offering a unique charm for the collector. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Cosmic series was Omega's foray into modernizing the Seamaster line with space-age inspired designs and advanced case construction. The monocoque case was a significant technical achievement, designed to offer superior protection for the movement. This specific example, produced in 1967, sits right in the sweet spot of Omega's golden age, carrying the heritage of a brand that had recently conquered space and the oceans. / Second Vintage SKU: OME1VB6A7E000