Vintage Omega Seamaster 2975 - 18kt Solid Rose Gold

     Omega introduced its Seamaster line in 1948. Today it remains Omegas longest continuous running production model. Originally it was released with the advertising catch phrase: "For town, sea and country." A nod to the intent behind the design. A watch that could go anywhere and do anything. Perfect for every type of occasion. The Omega Seamaster was introduced with the references 2577 and 2576 with center second or sub second configurations respectively. They were powered by bumper automatic movements - sometimes chronometer certified. They featured a variety of dial configurations with some exceedingly more scarce, rare and therefore coveted than others. 
     This example, a reference 2975, is scarce. The 2975 was only produced for one year, in 1958. On Omegas website and in old adverts, it is referred to as "Special". Though the details with regards to reasoning is scarce, there are some theories. The Olympics in Rome were set to take place in 1960. Perhaps Omega was releasing this successor model and trying to stir up interest. Others have hypothesized that "special" referred to a new increase in waterproof depth rating from 3 to 6 bars. Though, to be honest, this seems unlikely as Omegas own website continued to list the depth rating at 3 bars. Referring to old adverts and catalogs, of which I have included some in the attached pictures, it appears as though this model was offered on a BOR bracelet exclusively - a first for Omega. 
     We haven't even talked about the case yet.  The 2975 marks the first of the Seamaster model line featured a seahorse medallion on the case back. The medallion coupled with seahorse medallion has links to Gerald Genta - a name you might be familiar with. Let us not forget that this particular example is encased in 18kt pink gold and bears the larger variation of the highly desirable seahorse hippocampus. Of all the the previous listings that I have scowered through since this gems arrival I was only able to find two other such examples. Finally we have the movement, an automatic winding caliber 501. The 500 series came with a plethora of upgrades over there predecessors and have long been held in high regard. A caliber of such distinguishment that Omega itself mostly reserved it for its top of the line offerings: The constellation. 

 ABOUT THIS WATCH: 

MANUFACTURER: Omega

MODEL:  Seamaster 

REFERENCE:  2975

SERIAL: 16xxxxxx

YEAR: 1958

CASE: The 34mm solid 18kt pink gold case is in fair shape. The case has seen some polishing in the past. The hallmark on the 5 o'clock lug is still visible. The crystal has been replaced some time in the past. The pink gold crown has also been replaced in the past with a generic yellow colored crown. A pink gold crown can be sourced at cost should the prospective buyer desire. Simply inquire. The case is completed by a snap back case back with the large seamonster hippocampus - highly desirable by collectors and rather uncommon to say the least. 

DIAL: An original two tone dial. The dial is non-luminous and features pink gold baton style hour markers with matching dauphine hands. The dial presents with some staining near the 3 o'clock hour marker that was presumably resultant of an issue with the crown gasket that could have led to its replacement. 

MOVEMENT:  Omega automatic caliber 501. Service history is unknown. The watch winds, sets, and runs. The watch was placed on a timegrapher which illustrated that it is keeping time within 29spd and has an amplitude of 253. The watch can be serviced for $325 plus parts (if necessary). If serviced the watch will come with a one year warranty. 

BRACELET: Will come on the pictured genuine leather strap with matching pink gold colored pin buckle. 

ACCESSORIES: None.  

BOX/PAPERS: No. 

WARRANTY: None unless serviced prior. If the watch is serviced it will come with a one year warranty. 

BANK WIRE/ZELLE PRICE: $1,859 shipped.