Omega "Anti-Magnétique"

, Movement No. 5751530, Case No. 7564886, 46 mm, circa 1923

An aviator's oversized, important and early wristwatch with enamel dial - one of the first wristwatches with chronograph suitable for speed measurement up to 240 kilometres per hour

Case: 18K gold, hinged push back. Dial: white enamel, 30 min. counter, polychrome multi scale. Movm.: 2/3 plate movement, screw compensation balance.

The first Omega aviator's chronographs
The present lot is a beautiful example not only of an early chronograph wristwatch, but of an early wristwatch in general. In 1923, wristwatches had yet to capture the attention they would enjoy later in the century.
The size of the watch is due to two important factors: facility of production and utility. The 18''' movement used in this watch could have been produced to be fitted into a pocket watch; when it came time to make a wristwatch, Omega would have used the available parts they had rather than designing a new, smaller calibre.
As the watch was probably made for use by aviators, the large size of the case and dial are very important. With such a big watch, the pilot could easily read the time during his flying maneuvers. The ingenious design of chronograph button at 6 o'clock helps the pilot activate the complication with his opposite hand and is easier to use than the standard side button design.
#42314

Case: very good
Dial: very good, hairline
Movm.: very good, capable of running