1970 Omega Chronostop Geneve Jumbo 41mm Grey Racing
Ref: 146.012

Specification

Points of Mention

This watch is sold as "Watch Only" and therefore comes with no original Omega box or paperwork. The watch comes paired on its original Omega integrated bracelet with a signed folding clasp, the total length is 22cm. The watch is from Circa. 1970, dated via the serial number and is sold in worn, vintage condition, but overall this is in fantastic condition as you can see. The watch comes with our 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty.

The Watch

Formerly known as the La Generale Watch Co. it was founded by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1848. In 1903 they renamed the company Omega until 1982 when they officially changed their name to Omega SA. They are part of the Swiss Swatch Group.

In 1967 Omega launched the De Ville as a stand-alone line. Much more streamlined, variety and a younger feel than the Seamaster, it soon became Omega’s best selling collection. The Chronostop was initially launched as a Seamaster but in 1967 the line was transferred to the ”Geneve” collection and “De Ville” line in 1970. It was well regarded in the watch industry and in 1967 won the Honour prize for chronographs and sports watches. In 1968 at the Winnipeg Pan American Games and Mexico Olympics, it was selected as the official Omega timer. It was designed to be worn under the wrist and was very popular with divers.

This model was manufactured in 1970, the case designed by Fernando Fontana, who was the owner of the Lascor Case company which made specialised cases for special designs for Omega. Sold exclusively through Omega’s Italian distributor "Di Marchi". This magnificent 1970 Omega De Ville Chronostop has an elliptical “UFO” shaped 41.5mm, stainless steel case. Broad lug shoulders gently curve towards the integrated bracelet. A 48mm lug to lug length gives the watch serious wrist presence. Polished sides and brushed top surfaces have crisp edges that are well defined. On the right side at 2 o’clock the Chronostop single pusher, to engage, press down, to stop, press down, hold, read the seconds and release to reset. At 4 o’clock a signed crown.  A slim polished bezel holds the domed crystal. Its anthracite grey dial is textured and goes from dark to light grey gradient. An outer minute track has applied steel batons and lume pips marking the hours. At 3 o’clock a date window. Slim baton hands have lume infill, alongside a centre chronograph hand.  On the reverse a plain screw-down case-back. Inside a Manually Wound Omega Cal. 920, 17 jewels, 21,600 beats per hour. Fitted on its original Omega integrated bracelet with a signed folding clasp.

Personal Note

Personally owning a "De Ville" version of this reference I'm constantly being asked about it, most have never even seen this reference. That is why when this model came up for sale I had to jump on it, the movement had seen better days but after service with our watchmaker, it is now ready and running beautifully. The winner here is that dial, the case shape, and the fact it's a Chronostop, nevermind the size at 41.5mm for a 1970 Omega! It's insane.