Omega De Ville “Andrew Grima” Automatic Ref. 551.074 (circa 1973)

WHY WE CURATED IT:
De Villes are special in Omega history. Originally a sub-set of Seamasters, it diverged into a standalone line by 1967. Over time, technical milestones such as Omega’s first co-axial escapement and first anti-magnetic central tourbillon were housed in De Villes. But beyond technology, De Villes also channeled Omega’s brief forays into avant-garde design. In the 60s, Omega had famously convinced a reluctant Andrew Grima, rockstar British jeweller from London’s Mayfair, to collaborate on a once-off series of watches that “tell time through gemstones”. These were high-end bespoke pieces, and one of Grima’s conditions before agreeing was that the pieces must carry no Omega branding. Luckily for us, Omega re-introduced a range of De Villes under the “Time In Style” series in the 70s, a reimagining of Grima designs made affordable (and branded Omega). Like this one right here, an absolute gem (no pun intended) with a mirror-like dial, a jewel-faceted sapphire crystal and automatic movement. Absolutely killer on- or off-wrist and a stunning must-have for design lovers.

CONDITION:
9/10, with minimal light hairlines, no nicks/wear-down of gold surfaces. Intact hallmarks on the case side. Minimal microscopic marks on the crystal and dial from over half a century of careful use. Hands, dial text and indices remain pristine. Original signed crown. New aftermarket strap and buckle. Movement excellent with to-spec power reserve, strong amplitude, low beat error and accurate to ±10 secs/day averaged from 6 timegrapher positions.

DIMENSIONS:
24mm width excl. crown
39.2mm length incl. lugs
10.6mm thickness
14mm lug width
Visual dial width ~17mm
Wrist in photos is 15.8cm in circumference

CRYSTAL:
Sapphire

CASE:
Steel, 20-micron gold-plating

WATER RESISTANCE:
Assumed none, as per vintage watches

STRAP:
Aftermarket brown matte croc-embossed with aftermarket buckle (12mm)

CALIBRE:
Omega Cal. 661, 2-hander automatic

COMES WITH:
Watch, aftermarket strap & buckle

TERMS OF SALE:
Please see our stories Highlight entitled “Terms” on our Instagram profile. Thanks!