Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Omega 'Scarabaeus' Type Tank Watch
Watch (Mechanical Wristwatch) · Yellow Gold (High-copper alloy providing a rich, warm saturation characteristic of vintage European gold).
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) – containing 75% pure gold. Hallmarks likely on interior case back or between lugs.
Type
Watch (Mechanical Wristwatch)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) – containing 75% pure gold. Hallmarks likely on interior case back or between lugs.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High-copper alloy providing a rich, warm saturation characteristic of vintage European gold).
Weight
25-35 grams (Total weight including movement). Pure gold content estimated at 12-18 grams.
Description
A rare and architecturally bold vintage Omega cocktail watch. The rectangular 'tank' style dial is framed by high-polished flared lugs, paired with a sophisticated textured gold bracelet. This piece represents the glamour of the post-war high-jewelry era.
Key Features
Oversized 'Bull's Horn' or 'Scarabaeus' lugs; integrated textured bracelet; mechanical hand-wound movement.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow gold color with a dual-finish: high-polish 'bull's horn' lugs and a textured/basketweave linen finish on the bracelet links.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Omega logo on dial; 18K/750 stamps and Swiss Helvetia assay marks expected on internal caseback; hallmark on bracelet clasp.
Dimensions Estimate
Case: 20mm x 32mm approx; Bracelet width: 10mm; Ladies' standard wrist size.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones. Applied gold Arabic numerals and baton markers on a silvered/champagne dial.
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over jewelry clasp, likely matching the basketweave texture and featuring a safety chain or secondary catch.
Chain & Links
Integral textured rectangular links with interlocking H-style hinges; rigid yet articulating construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished case with precise geometry; die-struck textured links; high-grade mechanical movement with perlage or Côtes de Genève finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Correct Omega font and logo spacing; high-quality gold luster; period-correct crown shape and seamless bracelet integration.
Origin & Maker
Swiss origin; Omega Watch Co. Known for precision movements and high-jewelry case designs during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Retro/Late Art Deco (1940s-1950s). Characterized by bold, architectural 'bull's horn' or flared lugs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945–1955 based on the dial logo style and the distinctive oversized lug architecture.
Cultural Significance
Symbolized elite status and the transition from utilitarian wartime designs to the luxury 'New Look' of the late 1940s.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Minor surface scratches on lugs; dial shows age-related 'patina' or spotting; crystal appears slightly abraded. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$1,800 - $3,200. Value lies significantly in the 'Collectible/Artistic' merit and Omega brand heritage rather than just melt weight.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in water (not waterproof); clean with a dry jewelry cloth; mechanical service recommended every 5 years.
Similar Items
Cartier Tank Cintrée, Patek Philippe Gondolo, or vintage Longines curved tank watches.
Interesting Facts
Omega watches of this era often utilized movements so small they were cross-applied in hidden 'secret' watches and ring watches.