SOLD. Omega Seamaster 120. Ref: 166.0251. 1979. (Non-Baby Ploprof)

Omega Seamaster 120. Ref:166.0251. 1979.

In my opinion, the Seamaster 120 (non-baby Ploprof) is one of the most attractive divers watches that Omega ever produced. Beautifully proportioned, wonderfully understated and with a design that has aged exceptionally well.

The ref:166.0251 was only produced for a very short period, and finding them is incredibly difficult. Finding one in excellent condition, running well and retaining the correct factory components is quite another matter altogether.

This particular example, coming from the son of the original owner, dates to 1979 and took me a couple of years to track down. Even then, it wasn't quite right. The case, bracelet and dial were all exceptionally good, but the bezel insert had been damaged by Omega themselves, and the hands and date wheel had been replaced during a recent service.

Fortunately, Omega had returned the original hands and date wheel to the previous owner, allowing me to establish exactly what had been changed. However, these original components were considerably worn, with some damage, so the genuine Omega service replacements have been left in place.

The bezel was rather more challenging. Original examples with intact Bakelite inserts are nigh on impossible to find, and after considerable searching I eventually resorted to purchasing an entire donor watch to obtain a suitable replacement.

The watch has also recently undergone an extensive service at Omega's Heritage Department in Switzerland, a process which took over a year to complete.

A Personal Note:-

I've had a particular fondness for this reference for some time now. There's something about the proportions and overall design that just works. A proper vintage divers watch, but with a certain elegance that makes it equally suited to everyday wear. And the icing on the cake is the bracelet. It's brilliant. They really are incredibly nice things!!

Condition:-

The overall condition of this watch is exceptionally good.

The case and bracelet have both survived remarkably well, which is certainly not something that can be said for many examples of this reference.

The dial is similarly well preserved and was another important factor in my decision to purchase the watch.

The bezel has been replaced with a correct period Omega example sourced from a donor watch, complete with its original Bakelite insert.

The hands and date wheel are genuine Omega service replacements, fitted during a recent service. The original components were considerably worn or damaged and have therefore not been refitted.

The watch presents beautifully and is, overall, an extremely pleasing example of this increasingly sought-after reference.

Movement:-

The watch has recently undergone an extensive service by Omega's Heritage Department in Switzerland, a process which took in excess of twelve months.

Therefore, the Cal:1010 is running very strongly indeed.