Vintage Omega Wristwatch Seamaster 166.010 Automatic 1966

SPECIFICATION

Reference: Seamaster 166.010
Movement: Calibre 565
Age: circa 1966
Case Size: 35mm
Case Thickness: 11mm
Lug to Lug: 43mm
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
  
• Sunburst dial
  
• Replacement crystal, used Omega signed crystal included
  
• Omega signed crown
• Fully serviced automatic movement
  
• Paired with its signed stainless steel beads of rice bracelet that fits up to 7 1/2 inch wrist. It does have some age related wear.

THE WATCH

The Omega Seamaster 166.010 has a 35mm stainless steel case, 40mm lug-to-lug, making it a comfortable fit on most wrists. The case finish is simple, with a wide polished bezel, and polished top and back, while the sides of the case have a nice vertical brushed finish. The crown is a simple knurled crown with the Omega logo, a departure from the classic clover leaf style crowns of the earlier Seamasters. which holds a domed crystal over a cream sunburst dial, applied baton hour markers with black inlay, and a date window at 3 o’clock. The silver sword hands, paired with a slim, tapered seconds hand which has slight pitting. Text is cleanly printed at 12 o’clock, with an applied Omega logo, and “Seamaster” at 6 o’clock.

The screw-down case back includes Omega’s classic hippocampus logo, which covers the movement, Inside is the automatic Omega Caliber 565 with date, 24 jewels and a beat rate of 19,800 vibrations per hour.

A BIT OF TRIVIA

The Omega Seamaster was first introduced in 1948, launched to celebrate Omega's 100th anniversary. Drawing on technology developed for military watches during World War II, the early Seamaster models were designed as stylish yet durable timepieces. These watches offered water resistance suitable for daily wear and light aquatic activity, combining elegance with a new level of functionality for the time.

In 1957, Omega released the Seamaster 300, a true professional dive watch. Although rated for 200 meters, it was marketed as a 300-meter diver due to its robust construction. It quickly gained popularity among divers and military professionals and was part of Omega’s legendary "Professional Trilogy," alongside the Speedmaster and Railmaster. This marked a shift from the dressier origins of the Seamaster to a more tool-oriented watch.

During the 1960s and 70s, the Seamaster line expanded significantly. Omega introduced models like the Seamaster De Ville, which leaned toward elegant dress watches, and more experimental designs such as the Seamaster Cosmic with its distinctive cases and dials. The line continued to evolve with features like chronograph functions, automatic movements, and even integrated bracelets, showing off both Omega’s technical capabilities and stylistic innovation.

Today, the Seamaster is one of Omega’s most celebrated collections. Whether used by professional divers, worn by James Bond, or admired by watch enthusiasts and collectors, it remains a versatile and enduring icon in the world of horology.

OUR THOUGHTS

This Omega Seamaster is a superb vintage find, blending timeless design, reliable Swiss craftsmanship, and great value. With its versatile style, durable case, dependable automatic movement, and iconic hippocampus case back, it’s a watch that’s as practical as it is collectible. A fantastic choice for anyone looking to add a classic vintage Omega to their collection.