A Guide to Omega Watches

Omega stands among the world’s most esteemed watchmakers, famed for its glorious blend of heritage, technical innovation, and unmistakable style. The company was founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt, who set up a modest workshop in Switzerland. By 1894, the firm had made headlines with the remarkable “Omega” calibre, which allowed for easy part replacement by any watchmaker, an innovation that would not only revolutionise Swiss watchmaking but also lend the brand its name.

^{An Omega Seamaster 300 T Dial Military Issue ST165.024}

^{Sold for £16,500} 

For over 125 years, Omega has been at the forefront of watchmaking, always seeking new challenges. Early breakthroughs included the first-minute repeating wristwatch in 1892 and, much later, the pioneering tourbillon wristwatch in 1947. The launch of the Co-Axial Escapement with the Calibre 2500 in 1999 further raised the bar for accuracy and reliability by reducing internal friction. Perhaps the greatest demonstration of the brand's reputation for precision and accuracy is its role as Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games since 1932. Most recently, at the Paris Olympics in 2024, Omega equipment timed hundreds of events to an accuracy of up to 1 millionth of a second.

^{An Omega observatory automatic constellation watch}

^{Sold for £13,500}

Omega’s catalogue features some true icons of Swiss watchmaking. The Speedmaster, launched in 1957, earned its legendary status as the “Moonwatch” after travelling with Buzz Aldrin to the Moon in 1969, and remains the only watch NASA has certified for spacewalks, or ‘extra vehicular’ activity. The Seamaster, introduced in 1948 and famous for its naval heritage, has long been admired for its underwater prowess and holds a special place in popular culture as James Bond’s watch, starting with Pierce Brosnan in GoldenEye (1995). Meanwhile, the Constellation and De Ville ranges offer elegant, timeless designs for those who favour understated elegance.

Omega watches have witnessed and shaped many of history’s defining moments. Worn by astronauts, deep-sea explorers, and military personnel, these timepieces have withstood the toughest environments. The brand boasts an impressive line-up of owners, including John F. Kennedy and Sir Edmund Hillary, Elvis Presley and Prince William, and movie stars like Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman. Such distinguished wearers only add to Omega’s aura of prestige, adventure, and glamour.

^{An iconic 1966 Omega Speedmaster the ST 105.003-65 'Ed White' pre-moon wristwatch}

^{Sold for £5,500}

With such a pedigree, it’s little wonder that Omega watches are highly sought after by collectors and investors alike, with vintage models, especially coveted Speedmasters and Seamasters, setting impressive auction records. For example, a 1966 Seamaster with a rare, circled T fetched £16,500 at Dawsons Auctioneers in 2022, and, more recently, the expert team here at Dawsons sold an 18K gold automatic Constellation wristwatch for £8,500 (January 2026). The value of an Omega watch is influenced by several factors, such as model, age, condition, provenance, and whether the original box and papers are included, so it is wise to seek expert advice before selling.

If you are considering selling an Omega, our highly skilled team at Dawsons provide free valuations, whilst our dynamic global marketing will help secure the highest prices.

Note that if your Omega wristwatch is valued at £3,000 or more, you’ll pay no seller fees – that’s zero commission or fees, no hidden charges whatsoever… You will receive 100% of the sale (hammer) price achieved at auction with Dawsons.

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Buy or Sell Omega Watches with Dawsons

Our team of experts make it simple to sell your luxury watch online or buy fine watches at auction. Dawsons Auctioneers provide accurate valuations, competitive results, and trusted advice every step of the way. Get in touch today to find out what your watch is worth.

Call us on 0207 431 9445 or email us on info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk