Why This Watch Matters

Although solid-gold watches generally project extravagance, this 1950s Omega Seamaster radiates restraint. Its 14k yellow gold case and bracelet lend it a resplendent feel on the wrist, and its age and the soft patina on the dial give it an air of refinement.

The Full Story

While best known as a dive watch today, the first Seamaster watches, released in 1948 were actually intended to be do-it-all daily drivers, with robust qualities for wear on land or at sea. The collection became more comprehensive as it evolved, eventually resulting in the first Seamaster dive watch in 1957. The Seamaster watch we have today dates to 1954, right in the middle of the collection's early evolution. It features a solid gold case and matching beads-of-rice bracelet that would have made it one of Omega's most luxurious watches at the time.

According to the Omega Archives, this Seamaster dress watch was originally built on February 13, 1954, where it was then delivered to an agent on the Caribbean island nation of Curaçao. The textured dial has aged to a rich creamy color that seamlessly blends in with the yellow gold case, which houses an automatic movement inside. This Seamaster wears a touch larger than the 34.5mm diameter might indicate, and the yellow gold beads-of-rice bracelet acts as the perfect finishing touch. 

The Fine Print

Maker: Omega 
Model: Seamaster Calendar 
Reference: 2627
Year: 1954
Case No: 11071423; Movement No: 13112590
Material: 14k yellow gold 
Dimensions: 34.5mm diameter; 10.5mm thickness 
Crystal: Plexiglass 
Lume: Yes, radium 
Caliber: Automatic 353 bumper movement 
Bracelet/Strap: Omega 14k beads of rice bracelet with No. 11 end-links  
Lug Width: 18mm 
Box/Papers: No 

What we Love and What You Should Know

This Seamaster is in overall very good condition. The case is strong with scratches and has some patina throughout. The backs of the lugs have some scratches and the hallmark on the back of the 11 o'clock lug is visible. The textured dial is in overall very nice condition and has aged to a nice creamy color. The edge of the dial has some wear. The lume on the hands and dial have developed patina and are matching in color. The hour markers and hands have developed patina. The crown and crystal are later replacements. The 14k yellow gold Omega beads of rice bracelet is in good condition with some scratches and stretch, which is not uncommon for this type of bracelet.