1963 Omega Seamaster 300 165.014-63
The Omega Seamaster 300 is perhaps one of the most iconic and enduring watch models of all time. Alongside the Speedmaster and Railmaster, these models were first released by Omega in 1957 and is collectively known as the Trilogy. It was done as an effort by Omega to get into the tool watch game, as more an more people were leading active lifestyles.
This version is an early straight lug example and it is the third and final iteration of this generation. While most people would associate the Seamaster 300 with its later lyre lug chunky case, this is where it all started. Early Seamaster 300’s are much rarer and feature a smaller 39mm case with a thin bakelite bezel. Furthermore, the dials were much more subtle in their details and this example being a transitional early 165.014, features the iconic small arrow hands which were later transitioned to less attractive baton hands.
The origin of the Seamaster can be traced from the watches Omega developed for the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, but with the emergence of SCUBA diving as a recreational sport, it metamorphosed into something entirely its own: the Seamaster 300.
Omega released the first Seamaster in 1948 to coincide with the Summer Olympics held in London. In a city ravaged by the Blitz, the Olympics represented a time to look forward while still being respectful of the past. For Omega, whose 40th anniversary was also that year, the manufacture’s role as Official Timekeeper represented the ideal opportunity to launch a new collection.
Advertising material of the time touted the “ruggedness” of the Seamaster, more than the average wearer would ever likely call for in its life…which would prove all the more important with the 1957 launch of the Seamaster 300.
This particular Seamaster 300, a Reference 165.014-63, is a genuine masterpiece of industrial and horological design. Dating to the 60s, it features a 39mm stainless steel screw back case, matte black luminous dial and matching 'baton' handset, a rotating bezel, a signed crown, and lots of gorgeously patinaed lume. Powered by the Omega automatic Calibre 552 movement, this watch features a strong case paired to a beautiful dial.
Information:
Reference: 165.014-63
Serial: 20,308,XXX
Year: 1963
Dial: Tritium
Hands: Tritium - Small Arrow Hands
Bracelet: Delugs Epsom Slim Taupe Strap
Case Size: 39mm - Stainless Steel
Lug Width: 19mm
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
Accessories: No box or papers - watch only
Crystal: Plexiglass
Bracelet size: 7.5”
Case back: 165.014-63
Caliber: Omega 552 - Automatic - Running (+25 s/d 298 amp)
Condition:
The case has micro wear with the smallest little marks. Strap is new. Dial has your normal spotting under a loupe with lume intact. Hands have regular wear with a greenish beige patina. Regular steel deterioration of the hands as well. Bezel has marks and cracks. Running (+25 s/d 298 amp).
