Vintage Omega Pocket Watch, Black Gilt Dial, Stainless Steel, Cal. 38.5L T1 from 1943

Regular price $1,990.00
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This is a vintage Omega open-face pocket watch from 1943, a period when Omega's production was at the height of its mid-century precision. The serial number dates it firmly to that year, placing it squarely in the Second World War - a time when Swiss watchmaking continued without interruption, producing some of the most enduring mechanical timepieces of the 20th century.

The black lacquer dial is the defining feature here. Set against a stainless steel case, the contrast between the deep black ground, gilt Arabic numerals, and slim gold-tone hands is immediate and striking. A subsidiary seconds register sits at 6 o'clock. The case back is stamped "Acier Inoxydable / Fab. Suisse / Swiss Made" with the Omega triangle logo - all original, untouched, exactly as it left the manufacture. The case carries honest wear consistent with its eight decades of age, but the dial and hands remain in excellent condition.

Inside beats the manually wound Calibre 38.5L T1 - 15 jewels, bimetallic compensation balance, Breguet hairspring, 18,000 bph - a movement Omega produced from 1933 through to 1949, and one that earned a strong reputation for reliability and accuracy. This example has been inspected by our professional watchmaker, is running and keeping time as expected, and comes with a one-year warranty and express insured shipping, carefully packed and ready to carry.

CASE:

  • Stainless steel
  • Case back stamped "Acier Inoxydable / Fab. Suisse / Swiss Made"
  • Case diameter: 48.5mm
  • Thickness: 11.3mm

DIAL:

  • Original black dial
  • Gilt Arabic numerals
  • Slim gold-tone hands
  • Subsidiary seconds at 6 o'clock
  • Omega signature with Ω symbol

MOVEMENT:

  • Omega Calibre 38.5L T1
  • Manually wound, 15 jewels
  • Bimetallic compensation balance, Breguet hairspring
  • 18,000 bph, approximately 38-hour power reserve
  • Serial number 9,580,xxx dated 1943
  • Currently running and keeping time as expected
About Brand

What makes Omega an important vintage watch brand?

Omega is one of the most influential Swiss watch manufacturers, founded in 1848. The brand is known for combining technical innovation with durable, functional design. In the vintage watch market, Omega holds a strong position thanks to its in-house movements, consistent production quality, and historically significant models that remain highly collectible today.

Why is Omega significant in vintage watch history?

Omega played a central role in 20th-century watchmaking, from precision timing in international sports to professional tool watches. The brand supplied watches to military forces, served as official timekeeper of the Olympic Games, and famously supported space exploration. Early Omega Speedmaster models, along with military Seamaster references, are considered cornerstones of vintage watch history.

Are vintage Omega watches suitable for everyday wear?

Yes. Many vintage Omega watches were designed as robust tools or professional watches intended for daily use. Time-only models powered by movements such as the Omega caliber 30T2, caliber 26x, or later caliber 5xx and 6xx families are especially well regarded for their reliability. When properly serviced, a vintage Omega watch can be worn regularly while maintaining its value as a collectible vintage watch.

What should collectors look for when buying a vintage Omega watch?

When purchasing a vintage watch from Omega, collectors should focus on originality and correct configuration. Important factors include:

  • Original dial and hands with period-correct printing

  • Correct case reference and matching movement

  • Clear Omega serial numbers

  • Evidence of professional servicing

Original components and unaltered dials are key drivers of value in the vintage Omega market.

Which vintage Omega models are most collectible?

Some of the most desirable vintage Omega watches include:

  • Omega Speedmaster references such as CK2915, CK2998, and early Professional models

  • Omega Seamaster military and early dive references (including CK2913 and 300 series)

  • Omega Constellation chronometer models with pie-pan dials

  • Early manual-wind chronographs powered by the caliber 321

These models are highly valued for their historical importance, movement quality, and lasting design appeal.

Are vintage Omega watches a good investment?

Omega offers a strong balance between brand recognition, historical relevance, and long-term collectability. In the vintage watch market, Omega watches often provide better accessibility compared to some luxury peers while still offering documented heritage and in-house movements. Well-preserved vintage Omega watches continue to show steady collector demand and price stability.

Additional photos or videos of the watch

We can send additional photos if needed, including close-ups of the watch movement, back case, or any other specific details.

Simply contact us here, and a member of our team will be happy to assist!

Watch servicing information

All watches in our shop are in full working condition, having been professionally serviced by a certified watchmaker. Each watch undergoes a final inspection prior to shipping to ensure quality and reliability.

Shipping

Standard Delivery: 7-21 business days, depending on location. Free for all orders.

Express Delivery: 3-10 business days, depending on location, at extra cost. Free for orders 1000$ and more.

Processing Time: 3-5 business days for all orders, regardless of shipping method.

All parcels are fully insured and carefully packaged to ensure they arrive safely. For specific delivery estimates based on your country, please visit this page.

Warranty

Each watch purchased from us includes a warranty to ensure its quality and performance. The warranty covers movement and functional issues, with specific terms based on the type of watch (1 year for mechanical and automatic watches, 6 months for quartz watches). For more details, please visit this page.

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