Omega Objets d'Art and Vertu

It’s a celebrated part of Omega lore that the brand’s Speedmaster Professional Chronograph was the first watch to make a lunar landing. But the universal love for vintage Omega watches isn't confined to astronomers, and there’s more to the company’s heritage than the story of the Moonwatch.

The house’s origins date to 1848, when Swiss watchmaker Louis Brandt first set up shop. His sons Louis-Paul and César took over after his death, and in 1894, the pair developed an intriguing new movement.

Not only was it highly accurate, but every part was replaceable, making it easy for any professional to service. The Brandts called their movement the Omega, and as its popularity spread, they changed their company’s name to that of its flagship product.

In 1917, the British Royal Flying Corps designated Omega as an official supplier, and during World War II it became the principal watch supplier for the British forces and their allies. These commissions further strengthened Omega’s commitment to ensuring its products’ reliability under extreme conditions. In 1948, it launched the versatile Seamaster. Developed as a dive watch, the Seamaster proved its durability at high altitudes and freezing temperatures, as well. (Here is the 1stDibs guide to spotting a fake Omega Seamaster.)

Thanks in part to its rugged reputation and Omega’s links to the British military, it became James Bond’s watch of choice in 1995, appearing in GoldenEye and every succeeding Bond movie; it returned in 2021’s No Time to Die. Nevertheless, the most famous Omega by far is the Speedmaster, introduced in 1957. The first chronograph to display its tachymeter scale on the bezel instead of the dial for easier readability, it was quickly adopted by engineers and scientists.

Worn by Buzz Aldrin during the 1969 Apollo 11 lunar mission, it’s the only watch certified by NASA for extravehicular activity (space walks) — and, as far as we know, the only one approved by the Russian space agency, too.

Watch aficionados and aficionadas alike can find vintage Omega watches today on 1stDibs.

Omega objets d'art and vertu for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Omega objets d'art and vertu available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using base metal. We have 2 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider objets d'art and vertu by Dunhill, and Alfred Dunhill. Prices for Omega objets d'art and vertu can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $980 and tops out at $1,700, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $1,340.

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Questions About Omega Objets d'Art and Vertu

What are the most sought-after Omega watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
What the most sought-after Omega watches are will vary over time as trends in collecting change. However, some Omega watches consistently remain favorites among collectors. Among them are the Speedmaster Moonwatch with Caliber 321 movements, the Speedmaster Ed White ref.105.003-65, the Seamaster 300 “Goldeneye” ref.2541.80.00, the Constellation “Observatoire” ref. 2699 or ref. 14.355 and the Cosmic Complete Calendar “Farsi” ref. 2606-8. Shop a large selection of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
Which is cheaper: Omega or Rolex?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
There is no definitive answer to the question of which is cheaper: Omega or Rolex. When comparing entry-level models, Omega's starting prices may be as low as half that of Rolex's, but limited edition watches produced by Omega may rival the price points of high-end Rolex watches. Both Swiss luxury watchmakers offer a wide range of models to suit different budgets, preferences and tastes. Find a diverse assortment of Omega and Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
Are Omega watches automatic?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
It depends. Some Omega watch models feature automatic movement, which charges itself from the motion of your wrist as you wear it. Omega also offers quartz watches as well, which must be wound. Browse a wide range of Omega watches from top sellers on 1stDibs.
Are Omega Seamasters automatic?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Omega Seamaster diving watches come in automatic winding models. Consult the brand’s website for more information on specific models. Shop vintage and contemporary Omega Seamaster watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do I pronounce Omega watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Pronounce Omega as “oh-MEH-guh.” This renowned luxury watch brand is named after the 24th letter in the Greek alphabet, which also serves as its logo. Shop a wide range of professionally authenticated Omega watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
Do Omega watches tick?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Sometimes. Omega watches that have automatic movement have a smoothly sweeping second hand, and therefore do not make the classic ticking sound. Omega quartz watches, which are powered by a battery, do have the classic ticking movement and sound. Browse an array of authentic Omega watches on 1stDibs.
Who owns Omega watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
The Swatch Group owns Omega watches as of December 2021. The public company has its headquarters in Bienne, Switzerland, the same city that serves as Omega's base of operations. Swatch opened for business in 1983. Find a selection of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
Is Omega worth the money?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Omega watches are Swiss-made and very high quality. Generally, Omega fans would agree that the watches are worth the money. However, it is a personal choice.
Is Omega Deville waterproof?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
It depends, as only some of the Omega Deville models are water resistant. The Omega De Ville Tresor is water-resistant up to 30 meters. The Omega Omega De Ville Hour Vision is water-resistant up to 100 meters. On 1stDibs, find a collection of water-resistant Omega Deville watches.
Is Omega a luxury watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, Omega is a luxury watch. Generally, the term “luxury” refers to any product that is non-essential, aspirationally priced and crafted according to strict quality standards. Omega timepieces fit this definition. You can shop a collection of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
Is Omega a respected watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
Yes, Omega is a respected watch. Omega has been producing quality timepieces since Louis Brandt founded the company in 1848 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. His sons Louis-Paul and C�sar took over after his death, and in 1894, the pair developed an intriguing new movement that they called the Omega. Not only was it highly accurate, but every part was replaceable, making it easy for any professional to service. In 1917, the British Royal Flying Corps designated Omega as an official supplier, and during World War II, it became the principal watch supplier for the British forces and their allies. These commissions further strengthened Omega's commitment to ensuring its products' reliability under extreme conditions. Thanks in part to its rugged reputation and Omega's links to the British military, it became James Bond's watch of choice in 1995, appearing in GoldenEye and every subsequent Bond movie. Buzz Aldrin also wore an Omega watch when he became the first man to walk on the moon. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Omega watches.
Can you swap Omega straps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
Yes, you can swap Omega straps to give your watch a makeover. You can purchase leather watch straps in a wide range of styles, colors and sizes through the brand's official website and authorized Omega dealers. To protect your timepiece, follow the instructions for changing the strap included in the owner's manual. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Omega watches.
Does Omega have automatic watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Omega has automatic watches. Most of the Omega Constellation watches, including the Omega Constellation Globemaster, are automatic watches. An automatic watch uses the motion of the wearer to power the winding mechanism. Find vintage and contemporary Omega watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
Does Omega sell straps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
Yes, Omega sells straps. You can purchase two-piece leather straps in a wide range of colors and styles on the Swiss watchmaker's official website. Be sure to double-check the size of your watch before purchasing to ensure an optimal fit. Explore a collection of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
What was the first Omega watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
The first Omega watch to be produced in a series was the Labrador. It debuted in 1885 and featured an advanced movement. Its technology went on to provide the basis for the Swiss watchmaker's 19-ligne Omega Caliber, which came out 10 years later. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of Omega watches.
Where are Omega watches manufactured?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Omega watches are manufactured in Switzerland. They were first made in a town called La Chaux-de-Fonds, but Omega now has a new factory in Bienne, Switzerland, where its headquarters are also based. Take a look at a range of authenticated Omega watches on 1stDibs.
Where are Omega watches made?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Omega watches are made in Switzerland. The watchmaker owns a number of facilities in the country, including one located near its headquarters in the city of Bienne. Every day, the company makes approximately 2,000 timepieces. Find a variety of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The Omega watch brand has recently opened a new production facility in Bienne, Switzerland. Since 1848 the Omega brand has been located in the Biel/Bienne region of Switzerland and they’re proud to continue this strong tradition of excellent Swiss-made watches. Find a collection of vintage and modern Omega watches on 1stDibs.
Why is the brand called Omega?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
The watch brand is called Omega due to the Greek alphabet. Originally, the watchmaker's name was La Generale Watch Co. In 1894, the founder's sons, Louis-Paul and César, who had taken control of the company following his death, developed an innovative new movement system for timepieces. They named their movement the Omega because Omega is the last letter of the Greek alphabet and is often associated with an ultimate accomplishment. In 1903, the brothers incorporated their company as Frère-Omega Watch & Co. Shop a variety of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
What is an Omega Speedmaster Racing?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
An Omega Speedmaster Racing is a timepiece produced by the luxury Swiss watchmaker Omega. It features a chronograph dial, a minute track for timing laps and a more streamlined, sportier strap or bracelet than other Omega Speedmaster models. On 1stDibs, find a range of Omega Speedmaster Racing watches.
Which Omega is worth buying?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
Which Omega is worth buying is totally subjective! The house’s origins date to 1848, when Swiss watchmaker Louis Brandt first set up shop. His sons Louis-Paul and César took over after his death, and in 1894, the pair developed an intriguing new movement. Not only was it highly accurate, but every part was replaceable, making it easy for any professional to service. The Brandts called their movement the Omega, and as its popularity spread, they changed their company's name to that of its flagship product. Since then, Omega has become well-known for its Speedmaster, Constellation and Deville watches, among others. When choosing which watch to purchase, consider where and when you'll wear it, what complications you need (if any), your budget and your tastes. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Omega watches.