Omega - Seamaster - No reserve price - 168.024 - Men - 1969

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Omega Seamaster Chronometer stands as a captivating example of late 1960s horology, blending robust everyday capability with highly refined mechanical precision. The Seamaster line has long been celebrated for its durability and timeless design, but the chronometer-certified variants represent a distinct tier of Omega’s mid-century manufacturing excellence. What truly sets this specific timepiece apart is its extraordinary visual aging. The dial has developed a heavy, uniform stardust patina over the decades, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind piece of wrist art. Paired with its iconic beefy-lug case profile and a classic beads of rice bracelet, this watch offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire a mechanically superior vintage Omega with an entirely unique, age-earned character. Brand: Omega Model: Seamaster Chronometer Reference Number: 168.024 Serial Number: 28915152 Movement: Automatic Caliber 564, 24 Jewels, Chronometer Certified Dial: Silvered dial presenting prominent, heavy stardust patina throughout, with applied faceted indices and framed date aperture Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1969 Condition: Good vintage condition with uniquely patinated dial and honest case wear Dial and Hands The dial of this Seamaster is a striking study in vintage aging, exhibiting a heavy, uniform stardust or freckled patina across its entire surface. This natural oxidation has created a rich, textured appearance that collectors often prize for its uniqueness. The dial features crisp, black serif typography for the "OMEGA AUTOMATIC CHRONOMETER OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED" text, complemented by the elegant script "Seamaster" designation on the lower half. The applied Omega logo sits proudly below the twelve o'clock position. Time is indicated by applied faceted baton indices featuring black inserts, which match the aesthetic of the classic dauphine hands. The hands show visible oxidation and aging on their metallic surfaces, perfectly matching the overall patinated character of the dial. A stepped, applied metal frame surrounds the date aperture at the three o'clock position, and the "SWISS MADE" signature remains clearly visible at the very bottom edge. Case and Crystal The 35 mm stainless steel case showcases Omega’s celebrated robust architecture, characterized by its thick, subtly faceted lugs. The case transitions between brushed and polished surfaces remain visible, though they display softened edges and honest handling marks consistent with decades of wear. The polished smooth bezel frames the dial handsomely, showing light surface scratches typical of a vintage tool watch. The winding crown features the scalloped edge design and is clearly signed with the Omega logo. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down caseback highlighted by a deeply embossed, crisp Seamaster Hippocampus medallion, which retains excellent definition. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal that features a distinct, integrated internal cyclops magnifier positioned directly over the date window. Movement Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Omega Caliber 564, a 24-jewel automatic movement renowned for its reliability and chronometer-grade precision. The movement displays Omega’s signature copper-toned plating, which remains vibrant and visually impressive. The bridge is clearly engraved with the serial number 28915152, dating the production of this watch to approximately 1969. The rotor and plates show very clean surfaces with minimal signs of handling. As a chronometer-certified caliber, it is adjusted to five positions and temperature, reflecting Omega's commitment to mechanical excellence during this era. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher displays a result of +10 to +13 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is secured to the wrist by a period-correct stainless steel beads of rice bracelet, a design celebrated for its exceptional comfort and mid-century elegance. The bracelet drapes beautifully and exhibits normal stretch and surface wear consistent with its age. The endlinks are clearly stamped with the reference code 511. The fold-over clasp operates securely and features a prominently raised Omega logo on its outer surface. The bracelet is sized to accommodate an 18 cm wrist. Condition This timepiece is presented in good vintage condition. The stainless steel case shows normal, honest wear with light scratches and softened lug chamfers, while the caseback medallion remains wonderfully crisp. The primary condition note is the dial, which displays a very heavy, prominent stardust patina and surface spotting across its entirety, alongside corresponding oxidation on the handset. This aging is visually uniform and free from localized moisture damage or severe dial peel, presenting instead as a highly attractive, organic transformation. The movement is exceptionally clean and running with impressive precision. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. The accompanying beads of rice bracelet will accommodate a wrist size of up to 18 cm. Remarks Vintage watches possess a unique mechanical character that distinguishes them from modern timepieces. Their appeal lies in the history they carry, the natural aging of their materials, and the craftsmanship of their era. Buyers should appreciate that these timepieces were engineered to the standards of their time and should be worn with an understanding of their vintage nature. History Introduced in 1948 to celebrate Omega’s 100th anniversary, the Seamaster is the oldest line in the current collection. Originally conceived as a refined, water-resistant dress watch for active individuals, it drew heavily upon the robust waterproof watches Omega delivered to the British military during the Second World War. By the late 1960s, the Seamaster collection had expanded to include highly accurate chronometer-certified models, bridging the gap between the brand's elegant dress watches and their rigorous precision testing standards. These chronometer Seamasters, often featuring robust cases and the legendary 500-series calibers, are now considered quintessential examples of Omega's golden era of watchmaking, revered by collectors for their enduring style and mechanical superiority. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OAC-0008