THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: OMEGA
MODEL: 145.016-69
YEAR: 1968
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 38mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND

The Seamaster collection of the 1970s was as varied as it was colourful. From the staple 300 and 600 lines to an eclectic range of chronographs, Omega truly went all in. In 1968, Omega introduced the reference 145.016, produced in both stainless steel and full gold.

The movement is identical to that found in contemporary Speedmasters—the Calibre 861. The key distinction with these Seamaster chronographs lies in their improved water resistance: Omega employed a metal gasket beneath the Hesalite crystal to achieve a rating of 60 metres. It’s somewhat baffling that these Seamaster chronos remain relatively obscure in the vintage market—the design is both elegant and interesting, and at 38 mm, the case wears beautifully on most wrists.

The example offered here features a navy “reverse panda” dial, a rare configuration for the reference and nearly identical to that found on the earlier ref. 145.006 with Calibre 321. The orange chronograph hand adds a wonderfully playful touch. The original dial is in very good condition, with some ageing to the navy surface. The case remains exceptionally full, and the watch is fitted to its original bracelet, which shows minimal stretch.

The movement has been freshly serviced and is running beautifully at +4 seconds per day, with 282 amplitude and a 0.2 ms beat error. Tremendous value in this lovely vintage Omega.