Omega De Ville Ref. 551.024 - A Subtle Gold-Toned Elite Women's Model Exuding 1960s Urban Elegance
The mid-1960s marked a period of radical transformation in Omega's design philosophy. The brand's De Ville series, which combined "casual chic" with high-quality Swiss craftsmanship, distinguished itself with elegant, slim, and minimalist designs that particularly appealed to female collectors. The 1966 Omega De Ville Ref. 551.024 is a near-perfect representation of this distinguished approach.
With its nearly square-rectangular form, slim body, and fluid edge-to-edge lines, the watch combines the Parisian design language of the period with a modern Swiss automatic movement. The brushed gold dial complements the warm, silky tone of the gold-plated (Plaqué OR G 20 Microns) case, combined with baton indices and elegant hands, creating a simple yet powerful aesthetic. A respect for minimalism is palpable in every line and surface.
The case's thickness of just 9 mm reinforces the model's jewel-like lightness and elegant presence on the wrist. This reference strikes an exceptional balance, particularly on women's wrists: neither flashy nor ordinary… A design that can truly be considered "quiet luxury."
At the heart of the model is the Caliber 661 - 24 jewels automatic movement, a highly compact and technically advanced solution developed by Omega for rectangular cases at the time. It is considered one of the engineering achievements of its time due to its successful incorporation of automatic winding architecture into small cases. The movement's clean, sparkling, and collectible-quality preservation is one of the key factors that distinguishes this example from many other De Villes.
The original inner caseback clearly displays the reference and production markings. The gold plating on the outer case is exceptionally well-preserved for its time; it shows no excessive wear, peeling, or severe deformation. This is quite rare for a model of this age.
The watch comes with its original Omega box. Finding a vintage women's Omega in its box, especially for the 1960s De Ville models, is a significant plus in terms of collection value.
Technical Specifications
Brand/Series: Omega De Ville
Reference: 551.024
Year of Manufacture: 1966
Movement: Omega Cal. 661 - Automatic - 24 jewels
Case: Stainless steel case back + 20 micron gold plating
Thickness: 9 mm
Glass: Original period Hesalite
Dial: Brushed gold-tone, baton indexed
Crown: Signed Omega
Inner Case Back Reference: 551.024 - Original Omega markings
Strap: Brand new, high-quality brown leather - suitable for classic women's wear and elegant attire
Compatibility: A slim, elegant form that fits perfectly on a woman's wrist
Condition
Case: Strong gold plating, only minor period scratches on the surface; the form remains intact. Glass: Hesalite crystal is clean, with no significant imperfections that would impair visibility.
Dial: The original brushed texture is completely preserved. There are no signs of fading, tarnishing, or repainting.
Movement: Cal. 661 is extremely clean; the rotor, bridges, and gears are collector-grade. It is in stable working order.
Strap: Brand new and compatible.
Set: Comes with the original Omega box – a highly prized detail on 1960s De Ville models.
A Final Word
The Omega De Ville Ref. 551.024 is a near-perfect representation of 1960s Swiss elegance.
The slim case, sophisticated look of the gold-toned dial, the technical prestige of the compact automatic Cal. 661, and the fact that it comes with the original Omega box make this model a rare ladies' Omega in today's collectors' market.
It is an ideal choice for both elegant everyday wear and collectible value.
Calling this watch a "vintage jewelry watch" is not an exaggeration; it's a true description.
The item you are viewing was manufactured in 1966.
Professionally overhauled and FULLY SERVICED (the movement is completely disassembled, its components cleaned, oiled, and adjusted), your watch will function flawlessly without any surprises. (It is maintenance-free for 3 years unless exposed to direct water or high humidity for extended periods.)
Item Condition: Tested, fully functional, and in working order.
