Omega - Seamaster - No reserve price - 166.003 - Men - 1968

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This exceptional Omega Seamaster perfectly captures the golden era of mid-century Swiss watchmaking, offering a masterclass in restrained elegance and robust engineering. Housed in a beautifully proportioned stainless steel case, this timepiece represents the ideal balance between a refined dress watch and a capable daily companion. The presence of the iconic original Beads of Rice bracelet elevates the aesthetic, providing an incredibly comfortable and historically significant wearing experience. Powered by the highly regarded Caliber 565, this Seamaster is a testament to Omega’s enduring legacy of precision and timeless design, making it a compelling addition for both seasoned collectors and those seeking a quintessential vintage watch. Brand: Omega Model: Seamaster Reference Number: 166.003 Serial Number: 26934554 Movement: Automatic Omega Caliber 565 Dial: Light silver sunburst with stardust patina and applied faceted indices Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and striking character Dial and Hands The dial presents a classic light silver base with a subtle sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully. Over the decades, the surface has developed a distinct and even stardust patina, characterized by fine spotting across the entirety of the dial, which lends the watch a truly unique vintage character. The dial furniture is exceptional, featuring an applied steel Omega logo and applied faceted baton indices with striking black inserts that provide excellent legibility. The typography remains crisp, with the sans-serif "OMEGA AUTOMATIC" cleanly printed above the center and the elegant serif script "Seamaster" positioned below. A framed date window sits neatly at the three o'clock position. The original dauphine hands feature matching black inserts and show honest signs of aging and surface oxidation, remaining completely visually coherent with the dial's overall aged aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 34 millimeter stainless steel case remains in highly attractive condition, showcasing a classic profile with gently downward-sloping lugs. The case retains clear transitions between the brushed tops of the lugs and the polished case flanks, exhibiting normal, honest signs of wear and superficial handling marks consistent with its age. The smooth polished bezel frames the dial perfectly, adding to the watch's refined presence. The original scalloped crown is correctly signed with the Omega emblem. Turning the watch over reveals a beautifully preserved screw-down caseback, dominated by a crisp and deeply defined Seahorse medallion that stands as a hallmark of the Seamaster lineage. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that protects the dial and notably features the tiny, original Omega logo etched precisely into its center. Movement Inside the case beats the legendary Omega Caliber 565, a 24-jewel automatic movement renowned for its durability, swan-neck regulator, and quickset date function. The copper-toned plating on the bridges and rotor remains vibrant and visually striking, a signature of Omega's premium in-house calibers of the era. Close inspection of the movement reveals crisp engravings, including the Omega logo, the caliber number 565, and the serial number 26934554, which accurately dates the production of this timepiece to 1968. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. -9s-15s/day. Strap The watch is presented on its original stainless steel Omega Beads of Rice bracelet, a highly coveted accessory that defines the vintage Omega wearing experience. The intricate links provide unmatched flexibility and comfort on the wrist. The folding clasp is prominently stamped with the Omega logo on the exterior, while the interior blades bear the correct "STAINLESS STEEL", "1036", and "No. 12" hallmarks, confirming its authenticity and period correctness. The bracelet shows moderate stretch and wear typical of its age but remains structurally sound and visually excellent. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition, offering a highly authentic and unpolished appearance. The case remains strong with well-defined lines and normal surface wear. The dial exhibits a prominent, even stardust patina and spotting that collectors often appreciate for its unique aging process, while the hands show corresponding oxidation. The movement is visually clean and the original signed components, including the crown, crystal, and bracelet, are all present and correct. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures a classic 34 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The included original Omega Beads of Rice bracelet is sized to accommodate a wrist circumference of up to 17.5 cm. Remarks This Omega Seamaster is a superb example of 1960s design, pairing a highly reliable automatic movement with an incredibly comfortable and stylish original bracelet. The visible aging on the dial ensures that this specific watch is entirely unique, offering a level of character that cannot be replicated. It is a versatile timepiece that transitions effortlessly from formal attire to casual daily wear. History Introduced in 1948 to celebrate Omega's 100th anniversary, the Seamaster line was originally based on the robust, water-resistant watches the brand supplied to the British military during the Second World War. By the 1960s, the Seamaster had evolved into a sophisticated everyday timepiece, combining elegant dress watch aesthetics with practical durability. The reference 166.003 perfectly embodies this era, utilizing the advanced Caliber 560 series movements to offer reliability and the convenience of an automatic winding system with a date display, solidifying the Seamaster's reputation as one of the most important and enduring collections in horological history. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OSX-0013