OMEGA small seconds Ref.2165, cal. 26.5 SOB T2, 1930s

— An early attempt at keeping water out —

In the late 1930s Omega was working towards a new idea: a watch that could survive hard conditions. Ref.2165 marks that turning point. "WATERPROOF" stamped deep into the case back is not a specification so much as the beginning of the line that would eventually produce the Seamaster.

— Wheat-coloured patina —

A dial in original condition with a well-developed patina, and blued steel hands glowing quietly. What the years have done here is close to an art form, and it exists only on vintage watches.

— Calibre 26.5 SOB —

The movement is calibre 26.5 SOB, from Omega's finest period; its design concentrates the beauty of mechanical watchmaking and it still runs strongly.

The case is made of Acier Staybrite, the best stainless available at the time, and gives the watch a density and a size that current watches no longer offer.

— Carrying history on —

Construction tough enough for military service, with elegance enough for a city street. A witness that has carried time from the turbulent 1930s to now.

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