This is a rare original black dial Seamaster automatic.
The Seamaster model was debuted by Omega in 1948 and it featured Omega’s version of a screw-back waterproof case. The movement serial number of this watch (22608702) dates this particular timepiece to 1965.
While the case model 165.002 with straight angled-back lugs (similar in design to Patek references 3417, 3448 and 3445) is quite common throughout the 1960s, this is a special-edition dial with printed Arabic numbers, elongated markers and syringe style luminescent hands. The rhodium filling in the markers and hands is original and intact, making this piece a grail watch among Omega connoisseurs.
The iconic in-house Omega caliber 550 automatic movement fitted in this watch was introduced in 1958 to the Seamaster line. Caliber 550/551, the “mid-fifties” movements as they are known to the fans of the brand, represent the golden period when Omega was a progressive force in Swiss manufacturing. Innovations, such as the mobile balance spring stud carrier, helped Omega strike a distinctive balance between modern technology and traditional watchmaking, and between mass production and high quality.
The movement features Seventeen (17) jewels and a flat Beryllium alloy hairspring, that allows for adjustment by a swan-neck regulator. The rotor bearings are made from a bronze alloy. The original unpolished case, dial, crown, crystal are all signed Omega. 35mm
