Why This Watch Matters A classic gold Omega dress watch gifted to an employee of G.M.C.'s Allison Division on his 25th anniversary. The Full Story The Seamaster line has been part 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. The watch we have here is a handsome Seamaster De Ville cased in 14k gold showing off this model's dress watch roots. Though it later became its own collection, the De Ville began as an extension of the Seamaster line. This watch features a 14k-yellow gold case produced by the U.S.-based company Ross. In the '60s, it was relatively common for Swiss watchmakers to send movements to the United States and have them fitted with domestically produced cases to minimize import costs. Here, the solid caseback is complete with a personalized engraving, celebrating a gentleman's 25th anniversary at G.M.C in the Allison Division, which would go on to be acquired by Rolls Royce. The dial has applied baton hour markers with thicker ones at three, six, nine, and 12 to differentiate the cardinal positions; these work nicely with the classic pencil-shaped hands. The Omega name and insignia also appear on the dial, with the signature carrying over to the crown as well. All in all, these solid-gold Seamaster De Villes from the 1960s offer a great value and can be quite versatile. We paired this one with our textured grey strap to give it a casual vibe, but throw it on a shiny black crocodile strap, and you're ready for a black tie affair. The Fine Print Maker: OmegaModel: Seamaster De VilleReference: LL6590 Year: 1960sCase No: N/A; Movement No: 21823462Material: 14k yellow goldDimensions: 34mm diameter; 10.5mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Omega, self-winding, caliber 550 Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Textured Light Grey Calfskin Watch StrapLug Width: 18mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Seamaster De Ville is in overall nice, attractive condition. The case is strong with scratches and has been polished. The engraved caseback shows signs of polishing toward the top and the fully legible part says, "5 -17-40 PRESENTED AT ALLISON DIVISION G.M.C. 1965." The dial is in overall good condition with some patina. The edge of the dial has wear, and there is one spot near the six o’clock position. The lume on the dial has developed patina and aged to a lovely beige color, though some of the plots show normal signs of degradation. The lume on the hands has also developed patina, and most of the lume in the minute hand is gone. The crystal is a later Omega-signed replacement. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/ 6.9inch wrist.
