Omega - Genève - No reserve price - 166.041 - Men - 1968

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Omega Genève line represents a fascinating chapter in the brand's mid-century history, originally introduced to honor the precision of Omega’s Geneva-based observatory chronometers before evolving into a versatile, elegant collection for everyday wear. This late 1960s example captures the essence of that era with its robust automatic caliber and highly wearable tonneau-shaped case. Combining utilitarian reliability with an understated mid-century aesthetic, this timepiece offers a compelling entry into vintage Omega collecting, showcasing authentic age and mechanical integrity. Brand: Omega Model: Genève Reference Number: 166.041 Serial Number: 27122179 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 552, 24 Jewels Dial: Silver dial with applied indices, displaying even stardust patina and a distinct age spot below the model script Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest case wear and visible dial aging Dial and Hands The silver-tone dial features a classic, minimalist layout characterized by applied, faceted baton indices with black inserts, complemented by matching black-filled stick hands. The dial proudly bears the applied Omega logo and printed text, with the "T SWISS MADE T" designation positioned at six o'clock. Visually, the dial exhibits clear signs of its vintage journey, displaying an even, widespread stardust patina across the surface. A distinct, localized brown age spot is prominently visible directly beneath the "Genève" script, alongside minor spotting near the center arbor. The hands show moderate aging and light degradation to the black paint, perfectly aligned with the honest, untouched character of the watch. Case and Crystal The 34mm stainless steel case features a classic tonneau or C-shape profile, a hallmark of late 1960s Omega design. The case retains clear transitions between the brushed sunburst finish on the upper surfaces and the polished case flanks. Honest signs of vintage wear, including light surface scratches and handling marks, are present throughout the case and lugs, consistent with decades of use. The original signed Omega crown is well-defined and easily operable. The screw-down caseback is sharply engraved with "WATERPROOF" on the exterior, while the interior displays the correct factory reference markings. The domed acrylic crystal remains clear, presenting the dial well despite minor superficial wear visible under close inspection. Movement Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Omega Caliber 552, a 24-jewel automatic movement renowned for its durability and precision. The movement displays Omega’s signature copper-toned plating, which remains visually striking and clean. The serial number 27122179 dates the production of this watch to approximately 1968. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -10 to -15 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with a period correct stainless steel mesh bracelet that complements the mid-century aesthetic of the case. The bracelet features an unsigned sliding clasp, allowing for easy and precise adjustment, and presents in excellent condition with no significant kinks or structural wear. Condition This timepiece is presented in good vintage condition. The case remains structurally sound with attractive finishes, showing only normal, age-appropriate surface wear. The dial exhibits noticeable, honest patina, including widespread stardust spotting and a specific localized mark, which adds unique vintage character without compromising legibility. The movement is exceptionally well-preserved and running efficiently. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 34 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. The tonneau case shape provides a slightly larger wrist presence than traditional round cases of the same measurement, offering a comfortable and classic fit. Remarks This Omega Genève is a superb representation of the brand's late 1960s design language, blending a robust in-house automatic movement with a timeless case silhouette. The visible patina tells the story of its age, making it an appealing choice for collectors who appreciate watches with authentic, unpolished character and excellent mechanical health. History Introduced in 1953, the Genève collection was initially created to celebrate Omega's outstanding achievements at the Geneva Observatory precision trials. By the late 1960s, the Genève line had evolved to encompass a wide variety of styles, becoming Omega's most diverse and commercially successful range. These watches incorporated the same high-quality movements found in the Seamaster and Constellation lines but were presented in more streamlined, contemporary cases. Today, vintage Omega Genève models are highly regarded by collectors for their accessible elegance, robust engineering, and timeless versatility. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OAG-0028