Why This Watch Matters

The classic vintage Seamaster, this one in a slightly different case shape with day and date.

The Full Story

The Seamaster line has been a pillar of the Omega brand since it first launched in 1948. In the collection's 70 year history, it has taken on many forms, from a versatile, everyday timepiece to a robust diver's tool. Here, we have a gorgeous example showcasing the model's everyday wear roots: a 1960s Seamaster Automatic in a "waterproof" case featuring a day and date function.

We've always said that Omega Seamasters from the 1950s and '60s are some of the best entry-level vintage watches out there. Listen to an episode of HODINKEE Radio, and there's about a 50% chance one of these will be mentioned. You can explore a diverse world of designs and history from one of Switzerland's most storied brands, all without the hassle of paying a premium.

This example is toward the end of that range, dating to circa 1969. From where the model line was roughly ten years earlier , we can see where Omega iterated on a theme and answered the market's demand. That's the great thing about the Seamaster line during this period; the designs are always very of the era in which they were made while remaining extremely wearable today. The watch we have here has a more substantial case than most Seamasters, and the dial is finished with a really interesting silver speckled finish. Omega was creating great timepieces in this era, and this Seamaster is no different. In the brand's catalog, it would've sat next to a Speedmaster Professional the year that model visited the Moon. One last detail here is a quick-set date through the crown; pull the crown out and push it back in to change the date. 

We paired this Seamaster with our Honey Gold Calfskin Watch Strap, a tone that really has that "goes with anything" look to it.

The Fine Print

Maker: Omega
Model: Seamaster
Reference: 168.023 / 166.032
Year: Circa 1969
Case No: N/A
Movement No: 28045523
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 37mm diameter; 11.5mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Omega, self-winding, caliber 750
Bracelet/Strap:
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

This Seamaster is in overall great, honest condition. The case is strong with scratches. The case is possibly unpolished, showing the original bevels on the lugs. The case sides and bezel show their original brushed finishing. The bottom of the lugs have scratches from strap removal and placement. The Seamaster medallion on the caseback is clearly visible. There are scratches on the caseback from a removal attempt. The side of the three o'clock case has some nicks along the edge and a deeper scratch or mark near the tip of the five o'clock lug.  

The textured dial is in good condition and has developed a light patina throughout with a few marks. The lume on the dial is mostly full and has developed light patina. The hour markers and hands have developed patina. The lume on the hands has developed patina and matches the lume on the dial well.

The dial, case, movement, crown, crystal, and caseback are all signed by Omega. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.