Omega Seamaster Automatic 166.0225 - An Exceptionally Well-Preserved 1970s Example
Some vintage watches are not so much about the model as they are about how well-preserved they are. This Omega Seamaster is exactly such a watch.
The gold-toned case's broad brushed surfaces, sharp geometry, and edge transitions are still remarkably well-defined. These are the details that tend to disappear over time with use and polishing, especially in this type of coated case. Here, the photographs speak volumes about how little intervention the watch has undergone since the 1970s.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This product is in stock in the European Union and ships worldwide via express shipping. Customs duties will not be charged to customers within the EU.
The case, in the characteristic tonneau/cushion form of the era, has a very different look from the classic round Seamaster. The contrast between the satin finish of the broad surfaces and the brighter transitions of the case is still easily discernible. The slim profile of the watch also preserves the more elegant automatic watch aesthetic of the 1970s.
The silver dial is extremely clean and balanced. There are no superfluous elements except for the thin baton indices, the harmonious hands, and the framed day-date window at 3 o'clock. With the signature “OMEGA AUTOMATIC” and the classic handwritten “Seamaster” character, it’s a very simple but powerful period Omega.
Calibre 1020
Inside is Omega’s automatic Calibre 1020 movement. This 17-jewel movement operates at 28,800 vph and features a day and date complication.
The open movement photograph continues the same story as the watch’s overall condition: the copper-toned Omega finish, rotor, and movement components look extremely clean.
The inner case back clearly shows the stamps “PLAQUE OR G 20 MICRONS” and “FOND ACIER INOXYDABLE” along with the reference 166.0225; In other words, the 20-micron gold-plated case and stainless steel back construction can be directly verified on the watch itself.
The Real Beauty: The Watch Isn't Alone
One of the most appealing aspects of this example for me is that the original parts surrounding the watch haven't been lost over the years.
The watch comes with its long, period-appropriate blue Omega box. The black strap is accompanied by a gold-toned Omega buckle with the Ω logo.
Even better, the original Omega leather strap, which has carried the watch through the years, has also been preserved. The gold-colored "OMEGA – SWISS MADE" imprint on the back of the strap is still visible. Even if it's unusable, the fact that such a part has remained with the watch is a nice detail that completes the set's history.
Condition
To describe this watch simply as "in very good condition" is not enough.
The satin surfaces and geometry of the case are exceptionally well-preserved; the dial, indices, and hands are extremely clean; and the original Ω crown is present. The overall appearance of the watch is distinctly different from a nearly half-century-old Seamaster that has seen normal use.
The watch has been fully serviced and will be delivered to its new owner mechanically ready.
Final Word
What makes this 166.0225 special is not just its reference or the Calibre 1020 movement.
It's the case's ability to still speak for itself so clearly.
It's far rarer today to find examples that have preserved the broad brushed surfaces, sharp case geometry, and Omega's distinctive gold-toned Seamaster character from the 1970s without losing them under the influence of years.
The model you are viewing was manufactured in 1978.
PROFESSIONAL FULL MAINTENANCE. The movement has been completely disassembled, each part cleaned, lubricated, and precisely adjusted; so your watch will function without any unpleasant surprises. (No maintenance required for 3 years unless exposed to adverse conditions.)
Product Condition: Tested, all functions working.
