Vintage Omega Open Face Pocket Watch in Gold-Filled / Base Metal Case
Pocket Watch (Lépine/Open Face style) · Yellow Gold plating/filling over a base metal alloy (likely nickel or brass), showing a tarnished, aged silver-to-yellow hue.
Purity: Likely Gold-Filled or Nickel-Silver/Base Metal with remnants of plating. No solid gold hallmarks are visible on the outer case, which shows significant brassing and oxidation.
Type
Pocket Watch (Lépine/Open Face style)
Purity
Likely Gold-Filled or Nickel-Silver/Base Metal with remnants of plating. No solid gold hallmarks are visible on the outer case, which shows significant brassing and oxidation.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating/filling over a base metal alloy (likely nickel or brass), showing a tarnished, aged silver-to-yellow hue.
Weight
Estimated between 60 to 90 grams depending on movement thickness and case material density.
Description
A classic Omega open-face pocket watch featuring a white enamel dial with Breguet-style Arabic numerals and a secondary 13-24 hour military time scale. The piece features a small seconds sub-dial at the 6 o'clock position and cathedral-style hands with rose gold-tone accents. The case shows significant wear, suggesting a history as a functional tool watch rather than a dress piece.
Key Features
Double-digit 24-hour track, original Omega branding, mechanical manual-wind movement, and period-correct spade hands with a circular counterbalance.
Color & Finish
Dull champagne yellow on the crown; the case exhibits a matte, oxidized silver/grey patina with heavy surface scratches and crazing on the dial crystal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The dial features the Omega Greek letter logo and "OMEGA" text. Internal case back (not visible) likely contains the serial number and metal fineness stamps typical of Swiss production.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 16 size or 18 size pocket watch, approximately 45mm to 50mm in diameter.
Gemstones & Inlays
No external gemstones. The internal movement likely contains 7 to 15 functional ruby/sapphire jewels for pivot friction reduction.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged case back (not fully shown) and a standard circular bow (loop) at the 12 o'clock position for a chain attachment.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; this is a pocket watch. The edge of the case is smooth/polished with significant wear.
Craftsmanship Details
Features a high-quality Swiss mechanical lever escapement movement. The dial is likely fired enamel (porcelain), explaining the hairline cracks (crazing) visible in the image.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic Omega dial typography and logo alignment; weight and proportions consistent with early 20th-century Swiss calibers. Oxidation patterns suggest a non-solid gold case.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; manufactured by Omega Watch Co., known for precision and high-grade mechanical movements.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century, likely late Victorian to early Art Deco transition (circa 1910-1930).
Age Estimate
Circa 1915-1925 based on the dial typography, 24-hour inner track, and spade-style hands.
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of Swiss industrial timekeeping before the widespread adoption of the wristwatch during WWI.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. The dial (or crystal) shows heavy cracking/crazing. The case is heavily scratched with plating loss (brassing). The crown shows wear to the knurling.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its movement and brand heritage. Estimated between $150–$350 USD depending on the caliber condition. Negligible gold melt value as the case is likely not solid gold.
Care & Maintenance
Do not attempt to wind if the movement feels tight. Seek a professional horologist for a movement service/oil and a replacement crystal. Store in a dry environment to prevent further case oxidation.
Similar Items
Tissot or Zenith pocket watches from the same era; often compared with American brands like Elgin or Waltham, though Swiss movements tend to be slimmer.
Interesting Facts
Omega pocket watches were the preferred choice for railway workers and military officers in the early 1900s due to their exceptional reliability and shock resistance.