Bio:

This Omega was made in 1962. This particular case model, the 14770, is known as a transition model from a “pre-de ville” Seamaster to the Seamaster De Ville, meaning some dials would have or not have a “de ville” under the seamaster text. I personally prefer the non-de ville dial which was only produced between 1960-1962. This watch is a masterful combination of strength and elegance, says Omega’s 1960’s marketing team.

The Face:

The dial has speckling, consistent with its age. The indices and handset are not lumed, ensuring a clean aesthetic for years to come. There are printed minute marks around the dial and beautifully applied hour baton indices, with obelisk shaped indices for the 12, 6, and 9. Below the 12, the applied Omega logo is in gold, matching the champagne dial. Above the 6, you have the word “Seamaster” which in this model, collectors describe as the “coat hanger S” and “swiss made” is proudly found below the 6 o’clock. A no-date model is what I was going for initially, but I like how light brown the date disc has become, it complements the dial and made me think otherwise, plus the consideration to symmetry is well respected. The applied date window at 3 o’clock made it an elegant execution for such a simple and useful complication. The handset are unpolished with matching patina. The printed minute marks made it difficult for me to read the time exactly when viewing at waist level, but I don’t care, because I love how the crosshair layout draws my eyes to the center of the dial and how the light plays with the sunburst champagne dial which changes from sparkling gold to a beer amber. Cheers!

The Body:

I love the case design. It’s definitely unique, making it desirable for me. It’s a monoshell case, that helped the watch be more resilient against the elements in its lifespan, in fact this watch was marketed then as an elegant “sports watch”. This oxymoron is achieved by the SOLID caseback and water resistance was possible through the sealed acrylic crystal in the front and a waterproof crown design, covering all points of entry for hostile splashes. The design choice, in my opinion, reminds me of the original Omega Seamaster PloProf 600m (which has a monobloc case). I may be stretching the idea too much, but I can sure appreciate how this design choice connects the “ Seamaster De Ville” to the professional diver’s watch we know the Seamaster as presently. The case back features the classic Seamaster logo with the text “waterproof” engraved. The signed crystal is acrylic with a magnifier placed within the dome, enhancing the legibility of the date, adding more vintage feels. The watch measures at 34mm wide, 40mm lug to lug, 10mm thick including the crystal, and the straight lugs can accomodate 18mm straps. This wears so well on my 6.75 inch wrist that I could just wear it everyday, and maybe in the course of its existence, that could very well be the case.

The Heart:

The caliber 562 is not only reliable but precise when well serviced. It is a good looking movement with proper engineering. It beats at a slow and steady 19800 A/h, has 24 jewels, and a power reserve of 2 days based on experience. It features manual winding and it feels so satisfying to bring it to life. I learned that you can quick set the date by turning the hands from 2400 to 2100 hours. I like how this quirky way of changing the date set it apart from my contemporary watches. The swan neck regulator allows a beautiful implement for precise adjustments, while the copper finishing elevates its overall appeal. This is a wonderfully made movement as expected from Omega. The axle on the rotor of the 562 in general, may require special attention though, but other than that, it’s “bullet-proof”.

Verdict:

I will enjoy wearing this one, despite the unpredictable tropical weather I live in, clearly being aware of its “vintage-ness” and deliberate purpose as a precision instrument; truly an elegant and strong watch of character.