Omega Marine Vintage Acquisition

Bill Sohne · 2011-07-10T22:59:23Z

Bill Sohne acquires a rare Omega Marine, discussing its originality and seeking community advice on strap pairings for this historic vintage watch.

Hello everyone...

I have been on the lookout for a Omega Marine for many years... I have come across many basket cased , Franken watches and cross signed TIssot versions over the years. This example popped up in the UK . The inner case has some damage but overall its is in a condition that I find attractive. Its all original to the best of my knowledge. The seller told me that he bought it from the grandson of the original owner.

Aged original dial....Now the big question will be what strap or bracelet I will match this up width...

Any thoughts ???

Good Hunting

Bill Sohne

Key Points from the Discussion

A fellow collector once owned an Omega Marine for its historical significance but found it too small for regular wear, suggesting that while historically important, its size might not suit modern preferences.
Bill Sohne recalls seeing his first Omega Marine 22 years prior at a significantly lower price, highlighting the appreciation in value for these vintage pieces over time.
Several contributors recommend a strap over a bracelet for the Omega Marine, with shell cordovan being suggested for its rugged, durable, and supple qualities, particularly in black to match the watch's iconic status.
Historical advertisements show the Omega Marine was originally worn on a strap with a special fold-over clasp, suggesting this as an authentic pairing.
The unique clip mechanism of the Omega Marine is designed to securely hold the two case parts together, ensuring water tightness, though its current water resistance is uncertain for vintage examples.
Another collector notes seeing a mint example of the Omega Marine at a London dealer, indicating its rarity and desirability among collectors.

The Discussion

amanico

Jul 10, 2011

Superb catch, Bill.

I saw one i the flesh, very recently in Paris. This is a jewel. Personally, I would wear it on a strap. This watch is much more elegantn from my point of view, on a strap than on a bracelet. Congratulations, my friend. Best, Nicolas.

mac_omega

Jul 10, 2011

I would...

Hi Bill, very well preserved indeed! Congrats, it is great... I would leave this strap on - it matches quite well I think - when you study the old ADs you can see that it originally was worn on a strap with a special fold over clasp. Enjoy erich

watch.out1

Jul 11, 2011

i was hoping for that outcome, bill ! shipment is one of the weak points....

in our obsession. try a very fine matte steel mesh band; it will look stunning. i had 3 over the years and one came with a fine steel mesh.....must have a look, if i still find pictures on my computer..... kind regards. achim

Bill Sohne

Jul 11, 2011

I remeber seeing my first Marine about 22 years ago at a NAWCC MART

HI Achim I remember seeing my first marine at a NAWCC regional in the US midwest. The seller wanted 800$ and it was on a beads of rice Omega band .... I thought it was nice but not that nice !! oh well... 22 years alter and a lot more $$$ ... On the Mesh I have a old cromwell fine mesh somewhere ... I was also thinking of either a brown or black shell cordovan and my friend Craig Rodgers made some customer folding clasp with a white gold Omega logo. would love to see a original Omega folding cla

mac_omega

Jul 11, 2011

I have one...

Hi Bill, as I already mentioned in my former reply: I have one. You must have overlooked this remark... I will have to dig in my vault and then take a picture for you - please be patient. kind regards erich

Ruckdee

Jul 11, 2011

What is that clip-like attachment on the back?

It looks like it can be pivoted into a stand or something. Anyway I could be wrong and all I must say really is congratulations! Ruckdee

Key Points from the Discussion

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