Vintage Omega Open-Face Pocket Watch with Gold-Capped Crown
Pocket Watch (Open-Face) · Yellow Gold plating/cap on the crown; base metal/silver-tone case
Purity: Estimated 14K or 18K gold-capped/plated crown; Case is non-gold (Silver, Nickel, or Steel)
Type
Pocket Watch (Open-Face)
Purity
Estimated 14K or 18K gold-capped/plated crown; Case is non-gold (Silver, Nickel, or Steel)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating/cap on the crown; base metal/silver-tone case
Weight
Total weight approximately 80 to 110 grams; negligible gold weight (under 0.5g)
Description
A classic early Swiss pocket watch by Omega featuring an open-face design. The dial displays a double-track time format with high-contrast Arabic numerals and a subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o'clock. The gold-toned crown provides a touch of luxury against the utilitarian silver-tone case.
Key Features
24-hour outer track numerals (13-24) typically found on military or railway service watches; signed Omega logo with Greek letter; Cathedral-style hands
Color & Finish
Dull silver-gray patina on the case; warm yellow gold crown; significant crazing/cracking on the white enamel dial
Hallmarks & Stamps
Internal Omega hallmarks and serial numbers likely inside the case back; no external gold hallmarks visible
Dimensions Estimate
Case diameter approximately 48mm to 52mm (Standard 16 size or 18 size)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; hand-painted or printed Breguet-style numerals and sunken sub-seconds dial
Clasp & Closure
Top-winding crown with a circular bow for chain attachment; snap-back or hinged case
Chain & Links
Non-applicable; no chain attached; smooth rounded bezel
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-turned case with a hand-finished enamel dial; intricate lever-movement expected inside with signature Swiss finishing
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Omega font and logo placement; age-appropriate patina on the hands; precise sub-dial indentation
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; Manufactured by Omega SA
Era & Period
Early 20th Century (Circa 1910-1930) Transition from Pocket to Wristwatch Era
Age Estimate
Approximately 100-110 years old based on the dial font, spade hands, and 24-hour track
Cultural Significance
Represents the peak of personal timekeeping technology before the widespread adoption of the wristwatch after World War I
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair; substantial cracking (crazing) across the entire enamel dial face; significant tarnish and surface scratches on the case; unknown mechanical state
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD primarily as a collectible/restoration piece; little to no precious metal melt value
Care & Maintenance
Do not attempt to wind if resistance is felt; avoid water exposure at all costs; keep in a dry environment to prevent further dial deterioration
Similar Items
Tissot or Longines pocket watches of the same era; often found in solid silver (.800 or .925) rather than plated base metal
Interesting Facts
Omega was the official timekeeper of the Royal Flying Corps in 1917 and the American army in 1918 because of their precision in combat environments