Omega - Seamaster Chronometer Electronic f300Hz - No reserve price - 198.012 - Men - 1970-1979

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This impressive timepiece represents a fascinating chapter in horological history, capturing the era when traditional Swiss watchmakers embraced cutting-edge electronic technology to achieve unprecedented accuracy. Housed in a massive, architecturally bold stainless steel case typical of the early 1970s, this tuning fork chronometer blends the rugged, waterproof heritage of the Seamaster line with a highly sophisticated, humming electronic heart. It is a striking artifact of transitional watchmaking that commands immense presence on the wrist. Brand: Omega Model: Seamaster Chronometer Electronic f300Hz Reference Number: 198.012 Serial Number: 34210806 Movement: Caliber 1250 Tuning Fork Dial: Dark grey vertically brushed dial showing notable stardust spotting, degraded lume, and aged handset. Case Size: 41 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: Circa 1970 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and distinct dial aging. Dial and Hands The dial features a sophisticated dark grey canvas distinguished by a prominent vertical brushing technique. At the twelve o'clock position sits a striking applied red square bearing the Omega logo, towering above the crisp sans-serif "OMEGA ELECTRONIC f 300 Hz" print and the elegant script of the "Seamaster CHRONOMETER" designation. The hours are marked by applied, faceted steel batons featuring black center inserts. Upon close inspection, the dial exhibits significant and distinct aging. A notable stardust patina, characterized by fine spotting and particulate accumulation, is visible across the entire dial surface. The luminous material at the outer tips of the indices has degraded into a powdery, aged texture. The white painted hands, which also feature black center stripes, display clear signs of deterioration, with visible staining, cracking, and loss of the white finish, particularly prominent on the hour hand. A framed date aperture at three o'clock provides a clean, stepped metallic border that remains in excellent condition. Case and Crystal The formidable 41mm stainless steel case utilizes a hooded lug, helmet-style design that defines 1970s sports watch aesthetics. The top surface of the massive bezel area is finished with a pronounced, heavy circular brushing that contrasts beautifully against the polished case flanks. An original Omega-signed crown is nestled slightly into the case side at the three o'clock position. The flat crystal sits cleanly within the robust bezel and remains in excellent visual condition, offering an unobstructed view of the dial beneath. The case shows normal, honest signs of wear, including light surface scratches and minor handling marks consistent with its age and utilitarian purpose, yet it retains its strong, heavy factory profile with well-defined transitions between the brushed and polished surfaces. Movement Powering this Seamaster is the Omega Caliber 1250 tuning fork movement, a marvel of early electronic horology. The movement is visually striking, featuring Omega's signature copper-colored plating across the bridges. Close inspection reveals crisp factory engravings, including the "OMEGA 1250" caliber designation, the serial number "34210806", and the text "UNADJUSTED" alongside "TWELVE 12 JEWELS". The movement also proudly bears the "LIC. BULOVA & PAT" stamp, acknowledging the licensed Accutron technology that makes the sweeping seconds hand possible. The inside of the stainless steel screw-down caseback is correctly stamped with the Omega Watch Co. triangular logo and the reference number 198 012. The movement appears exceptionally clean and well-preserved. Strap The watch is secured by its original stainless steel flat-link bracelet, a robust and comfortable design that integrates seamlessly with the heavy case. The originality is confirmed by the clearly stamped Omega logo on the outer surface of the folding clasp. The brushed links show moderate wear, slight stretching, and surface scratches that are entirely consistent with the authentic age and use of the timepiece. Condition This watch is presented in good vintage condition. The heavy stainless steel case retains its bold geometry and distinct factory finishes, showing honest wear without appearing overly polished. The dial and hands are the most heavily aged components of the watch, displaying clear stardust spotting across the surface and significant deterioration of the white paint on the hands and the luminous plots. The movement remains a visually pristine example of Omega's electronic era, and the original signed bracelet completes the authentic vintage package. Dimensions 41 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This Seamaster is a compelling and highly wearable example of the tuning fork era. It offers a unique combination of a heavy, sports-oriented steel case with the mesmerizing, perfectly smooth sweep of an electronic chronometer movement, making it a fantastic conversation piece for any serious collector of vintage Omega. History In the late 1960s and early 1970s, before quartz technology completely dominated the industry, tuning fork movements represented the absolute pinnacle of timekeeping accuracy. Licensed from Bulova's revolutionary Accutron patents, Swiss manufacturers like Omega refined the technology to meet stringent chronometer standards. The f300Hz line was Omega's premium offering during this transitional period, providing customers with unprecedented precision wrapped in the brand's most durable and iconic case designs. These electronic watches remain a testament to a brief but incredibly innovative era in Swiss watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-ASC-0001