Omega watches are some of the most renowned timepieces in the world, having been around for over 170 years. These watches have been the official timekeepers of the Olympic games for many years, and they have even been worn by astronauts on space missions. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the history of Omega watches, from their early success at the Paris World’s Fair to their role in space exploration. We will also provide tips on buying and selling Omega watches, including how to identify genuine timepieces, assess their value, and navigate the secondary market.
History of Omega Watches
Omega watches have a long and fascinating history. The company was founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in Switzerland. At first, the company was known as La Generale Watch Co. However, in 1903, the name Omega was officially adopted. Omega watches quickly became known for their precision and accuracy, and they were soon being used as official timekeepers at major sporting events.
Early Years
In the early years, these watches were not yet the iconic timepieces they would later become. However, they did achieve major success in 1900 at the Paris World’s Fair, where they won the Grand Prix. This award helped to establish Omega as a top-tier watch brand, and it also helped to increase the demand for their watches.
Olympic Games
Omega’s partnership with the Olympic games began in 1932 when they were chosen as the official timekeeper for the Los Angeles games. Since then, Omega has been the official timekeeper for many other Olympic games. Over the years, there have been many iconic moments in Olympic history that involved Omega watches, including the timing of Usain Bolt’s record-breaking 100m dash in 2008.
Space Exploration
In addition to their success at the Olympic games, Omega watches have also played a crucial role in space exploration. In the 1960s, Omega began working with NASA to create watches that could withstand the harsh conditions of space travel. Omega’s Speedmaster became the first watch to be worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
Omega Watch Collections
Omega has several collections of watches, each with its own unique features and design elements. Some of the most popular collections include Constellation, Seamaster, and Speedmaster.
Constellation
The Constellation collection has become one of the most iconic Omega collections. These watches are known for their elegant designs and precision timekeeping. Some of the key features of the Constellation collection include the “Griffes” or claws that hold the watch crystal in place and the iconic star symbol that is featured on the dial.
Seamaster
This collection was initially designed for use by the British military. These watches are known for their durability and water resistance. Some of the key features of the Seamaster collection include a helium escape valve, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and a screw-in crown.
Speedmaster
First introduced in 1957 and was originally designed for use by race car drivers. However, these watches soon became popular among astronauts, and the Speedmaster Professional was chosen as the official watch for NASA’s manned space missions. Some of the key features of the Speedmaster collection include a tachymeter bezel, chronograph functions, and a manual-winding movement.
Buying and Selling Omega Watches
If you are interested in buying or selling Omega watches, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Identifying Genuine Omega Timepieces
When buying an Omega watch, it is important to make sure that it is a genuine timepiece. Some things to look for when assessing the authenticity of an Omega watch include the following:
- The Dial – The dial should have the Omega logo and name, and the text should be clear and legible. Look for any signs of discoloration, fading, or damage.
- The Movement – It should be smooth and consistent. If the watch ticks irregularly or makes a loud ticking noise, it could be a sign that the movement is not genuine.
- The Caseback – The watch must have the Omega logo and name, and it should also have the watch’s serial number and model number engraved on it.
- The Materials – Omega watches are made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, gold, and titanium. Make sure that the materials used in the watch look and feel genuine.
Assessing the Value
When buying or selling an Omega watch, it is important to have an understanding of the watch’s value. Some factors that can affect the value of an Omega watch include the model, the age of the watch, the condition of the watch, and any special features or history associated with the watch. You can use online resources or consult with a watch appraiser to get a better idea of the value of the watch.
Buying Watches Online
If you are interested in buying an Omega watch online, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are getting a genuine timepiece. First, only buy from reputable sellers who have good reviews and ratings. Second, ask for detailed photos of the watch from all angles, including the movement and case back. Third, ask for proof of authenticity, such as a certificate of authenticity or a warranty card.
Selling Watches Online
For those who wish to sell their Omega watch online, there are numerous marketplaces and watch forums available where you can list your timepiece. However, before putting it up for sale, it is recommended that you get it appraised and cleaned by a professional watchmaker. Additionally, when creating your listing, be sure to provide comprehensive details about the watch’s age, condition, and history, along with clear photographs captured from various angles.
Omega watches have a long and fascinating history, from their early success at the Paris World’s Fair to their role in space exploration. Whether you are buying or selling an Omega watch, it is important to have a good understanding of the watch’s value and to be able to identify genuine timepieces. By following these tips and doing your research, you can find the perfect Omega watch for your collection or sell your watch for a fair price.
