Omega Watches: History and Best Collections to Buy

Internationally acclaimed for their magnificent designs and masterful attention to detail, Omega watches have graced the wrists of politicians, royal family members, A-list celebrities, and even astronauts. In addition to the Swiss luxury watchmaker’s illustrious reputation, Omega has a rich history beginning from its inception in 1848. Keep reading to learn more about these exquisite timepieces.

Exploring the History of Omega Watches

Founded more than 170 years ago, Louis Brandt handcrafted the first Omega watch in La Chaux de Fonds, Switzerland. Only 23 years old at the time, Brandt established a small workshop. He was passionate about precision, dedicating his career to developing the most accurate timepieces he could. Within a few years, Brandt built his reputation for high-quality watches and established his business within Switzerland. Shortly after, his watches became popular throughout Europe.

Following a modest but successful 30 years of sales, Brandt passed away in 1879, leaving his brand and visionary aspirations to his sons Louis-Paul and Cesar.

In 1903, after Louis-Paul and Cesar Brandt created the popular 19 caliber watch named Omega, the company, which they originally named Louis Brandt & Fil in 1880, rebranded itself as Omega Watch Co.

In 1885, the brothers launched The Labrador, their first mass-produced caliber timepiece. Seven years later, they produced the first minute repeater watch. By 1894, the popular 19-line Omega Caliber was brought to life.

The Brandt brothers relocated their luxury watch operation to the region of Bienne, Switzerland. The move eventually transformed the company into a world-renowned brand.

In 1932, Omega watches became the official timekeepers of the Olympic Games. Since then, the prestigious brand has fulfilled the role of Official Timekeeper for the Olympic Games on 28 occasions. The brand also records performances for the Youth Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, a tremendous honor on all accounts.

What Makes Omega Watches So Desirable

Swiss-made watches have always been the standard for excellence within the industry. In order to qualify and receive the label “Swiss,” a timepiece must meet very specific guidelines. It’s not based on the watchmaker’s geographical region.

The Omega brand has a long-standing reputation for crafting exquisite, luxury timepieces of the highest caliber. Aside from being high quality, Omega uses an aggressive advertising strategy to sponsor sports events, big Hollywood film features, as well as celebrity endorsements. Omega’s bold approach helps establish the sense of exclusivity and extravagance that encompasses the brand. Of course, their watches are also very expensive, further targeting an elite audience.

Omega watches have made appearances in many sci-fi movies and throughout the James Bond franchise. It’s no surprise that the world’s favorite intelligence officer would need a high-quality, functional timepiece to accomplish his missions, and only Omega could offer him the best lineup of spy-approved watches.

Some noteworthy appearances of Omega watches in James Bond films include: 

  • Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition in No Time To Die (2020)
  • Seamaster 300 Spectre Limited Edition, Aqua Terra 150M in Spectre (2015)
  • Planet Ocean 600M, Aqua Terra Co-Axial in Skyfall (2012)
  • Planet Ocean 600M Co-Axial in Quantum of Solace (2008)
  • Seamaster Diver 300M Co-Axial, Planet Ocean 600M Co-Axial in Casino Royale (2006)

Best Omega Watch Collections

The Omega brand has made numerous contributions to the watchmaking industry, including the production of the first watch on the moon. However, although every Omega watch is a sight to behold, some iconic collections stand out from the rest.

Omega Seamaster

Loosely based on the designs made for the British Royal Navy towards the conclusion of World War II, Omega introduced the Seamaster in 1948. It remains the longest-running product line by the brand, meaning Omega continues to produce them today. The main feature of the original Seamaster watch was an O-ring gasket, which provided a waterproof seal and protection from pressure and temperature changes. 

Blockbuster James Bond movies, including Casino Royale (2006) and Quantum of Solace (2008), featured these timepieces. Aside from 007 himself, actor George Clooney and heir to the British throne Prince William are among the rich and famous seen wearing a Seamaster watch.

Omega Speedmaster

The Omega Speedmaster was initially part of the Seamaster line. It made history in 1962 as the first Omega watch to go to space on astronaut Wally Schirra’s wrist. Years later, Omega received a notable endorsement from NASA, making the Omega Speedmaster the official timepiece for American space missions. American former astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who was aboard the Apollo 11 alongside Neil Armstrong, would later wear one of these remarkable watches on the first trip to the moon.

The Omega Speedmaster shared the spotlight with the cast members of Apollo 13 (1995), The Nice Guys (2016), and Lucy in the Sky (2019). Furthermore, Tom Hanks, Steve Carell, and Dennis Quaid are among the stars who have a Speedmaster in their personal collection.

Are you interested in building your own watch collection? Luxury 101: How to Start Your Watch Collection can help you get started.

Omega Constellation

Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was the brand’s first mass-produced chronometer grade timepiece, creating a cult following. The watch was vintage yet easy to wear, and almost every collector desired one at some point in their life. Originally, the Constellation was called “Globemaster” in the United States, but trademark issues couldn’t make it possible. The golden age of Omega’s Constellation collection spanned from 1952 until the mid-1970s, though it’s still a top seller to this day.

Salt (2010) starring Angelina Jolie and Tomorrowland (2015) starring George Clooney are films that featured the Omega Constellation. ’90s Supermodel Cindy Crawford and professional golfer Sergio Garcia are lucky owners of one of these watches.

Omega De Ville

The Omega De Ville series debuted in 1960 as an extension to the Omega Seamaster collection, but it was later launched as its own line in 1967. Like many of Omega’s creations, it became a best-seller, mainly because the timepieces appeal as younger, sleeker, and more streamlined compared to other collections. Today, the De Ville is a large family of stunning watches with sub-collections of variant timepieces within it.

The Omega De Ville made appearances in movies such as The Descendants (2011) and Up in the Air (2009). Actresses Nicole Kidman and Sofia Vergara are some of the few known A-listers who own at least one of these luxury watches.

Sell Luxury Watches in Scottsdale and Chandler, AZ

The watch collections we’ve mentioned are among those that depreciate the least. If you’re in possession of an Omega watch, you can cash in your investment here at Biltmore Loan and Jewelry. Visit us today or complete our online form to get a market appraisal.