Omega De Ville "Petite Époque" 511.166 (1966)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is an exceptionally elegant example of mid-century jewelry design from Omega, representing the sophisticated spirit of the 1960s De Ville collection. This petite cocktail watch is defined by its spectacular faceted crystal, often referred to as a "Sapphette" style, which catches the light like a finely cut diamond and gives the timepiece a gem-like presence on the wrist. Perfectly preserved and complete with its Omega signed strap and buckle, this is a collector-grade example of a classic ladies' dress watch. Brand: Omega Model: De Ville Reference Number: 511.166 Serial Number: 24453392 Movement: Manual Wind Caliber 484 Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 18 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1966 Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The watch appears very well preserved with a clean dial and sharp case lines. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in beautiful condition, radiating a soft metallic sheen that complements the steel case perfectly. It features applied silver-tone baton hour markers that are crisp and free of corrosion. The stick-style hands are original and match the indices perfectly. The text is sharp and legible, featuring the applied Omega logo at the 12 o'clock position and the De Ville signature above the 6 o'clock position. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures a dainty 18mm and is in excellent condition with no significant dings or deep scratches. The defining feature of this reference is the faceted crystal which remains in remarkable condition, allowing the dial to be viewed through a prism-like effect that creates a stunning visual depth. The original winding crown is signed with the Omega logo. The caseback is clean with a vertical brushed finish and snaps shut tightly. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Omega Caliber 484, a copper-colored manual wind movement containing 17 jewels. The movement is clean and visually attractive, displaying the quality finishing Omega is known for. It is currently running with a variance of +45 to +55 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement mechanism for a vintage caliber of this size. Strap The watch comes fitted with a black leather strap that appears to be the original or a period-correct manufacturer strap, stamped with the Omega logo on the inner lining. It is secured by a stainless steel buckle featuring the applied Omega symbol, adding significant value and collectibility to the package. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is pristine, and the case retains its original geometry. The faceted crystal is clear and sharp. The movement winds smoothly and the hands set correctly. It presents as a carefully cherished piece that has seen very gentle use over the decades. Dimensions With a case diameter of 18mm excluding the crown, this is a true ladies' cocktail watch designed to be worn as a piece of jewelry. Its petite stature allows it to sit discreetly yet noticeably on the wrist, suitable for formal occasions or daily elegance. Remarks This Omega De Ville Reference 511.166 is a marvelous example of 1960s watchmaking where form met function in a luxurious package. The combination of the faceted crystal, the signed crown, and the branded strap and buckle makes this a complete and highly desirable set for the vintage enthusiast. History Introduced as a separate line in 1967, the De Ville collection embodied a shift towards urban elegance and away from the sportier Seamaster roots. This specific example, produced in 1966, sits right at that transition point, carrying the refined aesthetics that would define Omega's dress watches for decades to come. The use of faceted crystals was a hallmark of Omega's top-tier ladies' watches during this era, marketed to women who viewed their timepiece as an extension of their jewelry collection. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-ODX-0028