Vintage Omega De-Ville 165.033 Wristwatch Cal. 552 Automatic 1971

SPECIFICATION

Reference: Omega Deville 165.033
Movement: Automatic Cal 552
Age: circa 1971
Case Size: 34.5mm
Case Thickness: 11mm
Lug to Lug: 37mm
Lugs: 18mm
Condition: used Omega watch
Box & Papers: No
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Warranty: 12-Months Warranty

 POINTS TO MENTION

• In great pre-owned condition, with light wear
• Case and bezel have some light scratches and marks
  
• Vertically brushed dial
• Fully serviced automatic movement
  
• Signed Omega crown
  
• Signed Omega crystal
  
• Paired on an unworn blue leather strap

The De-Ville idea was introduced in 1960 but not as an independent line, it took until 1963 that the De-Ville signature for the first time appears on an Omega dial. And finally in 1967 the De-Ville becomes its own collection, its own page in the Omega catalogue.

THE WATCH

We are pleased to present this exceptional Omega De Ville 165.033, a timeless example of understated Swiss elegance. This model features a beautifully proportioned stainless steel round case, measuring approximately 34.5mm, perfectly complemented by a striking sunburst dial that plays effortlessly with the light.

The dial is enhanced by applied baton hour markers and elegant sword-style hands with black inlay, offering both excellent legibility and a refined aesthetic that is quintessentially Omega.

At its heart lies the highly regarded Omega Calibre 552, one of Omega’s most respected automatic movements from the era. This robust and reliable calibre features 24 jewels, operates at 19,800 vibrations per hour, and offers an approximate power reserve of 45 hours. Known for its durability and smooth performance, it remains a favourite among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The watch is presented on a blue leather strap, providing a contemporary contrast to its vintage character. Thanks to its versatile design, it can easily be dressed up or down with alternative straps to suit any occasion—from formal settings to relaxed everyday wear.

A classic vintage Omega that combines heritage, style, and mechanical excellence, this De Ville is a superb addition to any collection.

A BIT OF TRIVIA

Founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt, Omega began life as La Générale Watch Co., a modest yet ambitious enterprise with an international outlook. It wasn’t until 1885—under the leadership of Brandt’s sons—that the company truly stepped forward technologically, introducing its first mass-produced movement, the Omega Labrador calibre. By 1903, the brand had officially adopted the name Omega, marking the beginning of its rise as a global watchmaking force. Just a few years later, Omega was already establishing its reputation for precision, serving as official timekeeper for numerous sporting events across Switzerland.

Omega’s international breakthrough came in 1932, when it was selected as the official timekeeper for the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic Games—the first of what would become a long-standing relationship with the Olympic movement, spanning more than 20 Games. During the Second World War, Omega was also one of the twelve manufacturers commissioned by the British Ministry of Defence—later dubbed the “Dirty Dozen”—to produce robust military timepieces, further cementing its reputation for reliability under pressure.

In 1948, to celebrate its centenary, Omega introduced the iconic Omega Seamaster, a model that remains one of the brand’s bestsellers over 70 years later. The brand continued to break new ground in 1962, when astronaut Wally Schirra wore the Omega Speedmaster during NASA’s first crewed spaceflight programme, making it the first watch worn in space. The Speedmaster would soon become NASA’s official chronograph, famously worn by Buzz Aldrin on the Moon and relied upon during the Apollo 13 mission. Omega’s partnership with NASA continues to this day, contributing to the development of equipment for space exploration.

The brand’s cultural influence expanded further in the 1990s, when the Seamaster became the watch of choice for James Bond, first worn by Pierce Brosnan and continuing with subsequent portrayals of the character. Over the years, Omega has also been worn by a remarkable range of public figures, including Elvis Presley, John F. Kennedy, Prince William, Rory McIlroy, Ringo Starr, Michael Phelps, Cindy Crawford, and George Clooney—a testament to the brand’s enduring appeal across generations.

OUR THOUGHTS

The Omega De Ville is an outstanding choice for everyday wear. At 34.5mm, it may sound modest by modern standards, but its proportions allow it to wear exceptionally well on the wrist, offering a timeless and versatile presence. Freshly serviced and running beautifully, this watch is ready to provide reliable performance for years to come. We've carefully brought this Omega De Ville from the past into the present, now it's ready for you to carry it into the future.