Omega cal. 501 2864-7 SC / 2888 (1958)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage During the mid-twentieth century, Omega solidified its reputation for producing elegant, highly capable automatic timepieces. This classic Omega Automatic exemplifies that golden era of watchmaking, combining a beautifully balanced dial with the renowned Caliber 501 movement, offering collectors an authentic and mechanically robust piece of mid-century horology. Brand: Omega Model: Automatic Reference Number: 2864-7 SC / 2888 Serial Number: 16712808 Movement: Omega Caliber 501 Automatic Dial: Creamy eggshell with applied gold-tone faceted indices, exhibiting honest vintage spotting and patina throughout Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated Production Year: 1958 Condition: Good vintage condition displaying age-consistent patina and honest wear Dial and Hands The dial presents in a creamy eggshell tone, featuring an applied gold-tone Omega logo and classic serif typography. Applied faceted baton indices mark the hours, catching the light elegantly alongside the timeless dauphine hands. A thorough visual inspection reveals clear, honest signs of aging, including noticeable spotting, speckling, and generalized patina across the dial surface. The hands themselves exhibit visible oxidation and surface aging, contributing to the authentic vintage character of the timepiece. A simple printed Swiss Made signature sits at the six o'clock position. Case and Crystal The 35 mm case is executed in heavy 80-micron gold plating, as noted by the interior caseback stamping. The case features sweeping, slightly downturned lugs that maintain their fundamental shape while displaying softened edges consistent with decades of wear. The polished bezel and case flanks show normal handling marks, fine scratches, and age-related surface wear. The watch is fitted with an Omega-signed knurled crown. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, showing fine superficial scratches typical of its vintage. The caseback exhibits external wear and standard handling marks. Movement Inside the case beats the Omega Caliber 501, a highly regarded automatic movement finished in Omega's signature rose-gilt copper tone. Close inspection reveals the twenty jewel configuration and the clear caliber marking on the bridge. The serial number 16712808 is clearly engraved, properly dating the watch to 1958. The movement shows visual signs of use and patina on the rotor and bridges. Timegrapher results reflect current performance; the movement is running and operational, recording a deviation of +43 to +55 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a period correct black textured leather strap, accented by prominent yellow contrast stitching that uniquely complements the gold tones of the case. The strap is secured with a classic gold-tone pin buckle. Condition The timepiece is presented in good vintage condition. It displays a highly patinated dial with distinct spotting and oxidation on the hands, representing authentic age. The gold-plated case exhibits moderate wear, light surface scratches, and slight softening of the lug profiles. The domed crystal carries minor handling marks but remains clear and intact. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. Remarks This Omega Automatic is a quintessential example of mid-century Swiss design. Its honest aging and robust mechanical pedigree make it an appealing prospect for collectors who appreciate timepieces that wear their history openly. History Omega's output in the 1950s is celebrated for establishing the design language of the modern dress watch. The introduction of the 500-series automatic calibers represented a significant leap forward in winding efficiency and reliability. Watches from this era, characterized by their elegant proportions and durable movements, remain highly sought after by vintage enthusiasts for their enduring style and historical horological significance. / Second Vintage SKU: OME1HT2N4W000