ABOUT THIS WATCH

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when Sector Dials were first used as a watch design, but some of the earliest examples are found in pocket watches from the late 1800’s continuing its use though the early 1900’s in military trench watches for its highly legible design. Defined by having two separate concentric circles, one with hour markers and the other with minute markers, Sector Dials were extremely popular all the way through the mid 1900’s until the 1960’s when watches started to have a lot more colorful pizazz. As of late, Sector Dials have made a resurgence with several prominent brands like Patek, JLC, Longines and more drawing from some of their most famous vintage models.

But why have one of those when you can have the real thing in this black beauty. Omega is known for making some of the best watches during the 1930’s and 40’s and this example has not only endured for over 80 years, it still looks fabulous. There are a good amount of 40’s produced time only manual Omegas available to purchase for relatively inexpensive, which is a testament to how to well-made they are, but it’s hard to convey how rare and unique this particular piece from 1937 is. Those watches used the more common 30T2 movement while the 26.5 SOB used in this watch was only produced for a relatively short amount of time in a few different models including some military designated ones. Most of these were only around 33mm in diameter, but this one at almost 38mm made it one of the first oversized models Omega ever produced.

Regardless of how rare it is, I’m not sure I’ve seen a lot of Omegas more beautiful than this one. It’s no secret I have a deep affinity for black glossy symmetrical dials and this watch is a prime example of my love. For its age it is in fantastic condition with only a minor bit of the enamel chipping from the 12 marker, the outer track and the hands. But even those flaws are indicative of a watch that lived a life and to us vintage watch junkies is what gives this wonderful piece its character. Just as we cherish each day knowing that we won’t live forever, a watch with some deterioration reminds us to care for the things we love a little more.

Don’t worry though, this watch is ticking great and both you and it have plenty of adventures left yet.

WATCH SPECS

Maker: Omega
Model: Oversize Calatrava w/ black enamel sector dial
Reference: CK859
Year: 1937
Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 37.5mm diameter; 11mm thickness with crystal
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: None
Caliber: Omega 26.5 SOB
Bracelet/Strap: Custom tan French Calf leather box stitch strap
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: N/A