THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: OMEGA
MODEL: 166.0251
YEAR: 1978
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

Vintage Seamasters are undoubtedly among the most interesting and diverse lines produced by any brand, ranging from elegant dress watches in precious metals to the formidable Ploprof. The reference 165.0251 shown here is one half of the non-identical twins from the Seamaster 120 range. The other half, reference 165.0250—nicknamed the “Baby Ploprof”—features a C-shaped case and shark-mesh bracelet and is also one of our favourites.

The 165.0251, however, takes a completely different approach, featuring an integrated-bracelet design born in the same era as the Patek Philippe Nautilus and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Omega did not produce these in large numbers, and as a result they are very hard to come by today. This particular example is especially appealing, with a flawless dial and a superbly preserved case.