History of 007 Omega watches

When you think of Omega watches what do you think of? Myself I think of James Bond, 007 Omega watches. The secret agent with all of the looks, the style, the beautiful woman, the luxurious cars and the refined over a century old luxury Omega watches. However, where did it all start? In this review I am going to run through the history of 007 Omega watches and how it has been brought into the spotlight with the 007 fame. Buckle up and and learn about the watch that has a license to thrill. 

If you would like to learn about the 007 laser wristwatches, read this article next.

History of 007 Omega watches – Where it all began 

**1848:** Omega’s story begins in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, where Louis Brandt established a small workshop assembling key-wound precision pocket watches from parts supplied by local craftsmen. Brandt’s dedication to quality quickly earned his timepieces a reputation for reliability.

**1879:** After Louis Brandt’s death, his sons Louis-Paul and César took over the business. They sought to modernize the manufacturing process, aiming for increased precision and quality control. This led to the creation of the Omega caliber in 1894, a revolutionary movement that could be easily serviced and replaced.

The Birth of the Omega Brand

**1894:** The success of the Omega caliber prompted the Brandt brothers to rename their company Omega, a term symbolizing ultimate accomplishment and perfection. The brand quickly gained international acclaim, becoming synonymous with high-quality watchmaking.

The 007 Fame

**1948:** Omega introduced the Seamaster collection, inspired by watches made for the British military. The Seamaster quickly became popular for its durability and water resistance, establishing it as a cornerstone of Omega’s lineup.

**1995:** Omega’s partnership with the James Bond franchise. 007 Omega watches partnership began with “GoldenEye,” where Pierce Brosnan wore the Omega Seamaster. This collaboration brought significant visibility and prestige to the brand. It has now appeared in every James Bond film to date. 

Design and Aesthetics

007 Omega watches are notable for their elegant and sophisticated design, which perfectly aligns with Bond’s suave and sophisticated image. The Seamaster Diver 300M, one of the most iconic models, features a sleek stainless steel case, a ceramic bezel, and a dial with a wave pattern that is both striking and subtle. These watches often incorporate elements inspired by the Bond films, such as the gun barrel design, the 007 logo, and unique color schemes that pay homage to specific movies.

Build Quality and Durability

Omega watches are renowned for their superior craftsmanship and durability. Historically the Seamaster models are equipped with robust features such as water resistance up to 300 meters, a helium escape valve, and a unidirectional rotating bezel, making them suitable for both everyday wear and more adventurous undertakings. The use of high-quality materials such as stainless steel, ceramics, and sapphire crystal ensures that these watches are not only aesthetically pleasing but also resilient.

Precision and Performance

The 007 Omega watches are powered by Omega’s Co-Axial movements, known for their accuracy and reliability. The Co-Axial escapement reduces friction within the movement, leading to less wear and tear and greater longevity. This technology, combined with Omega’s METAS certification for Master Chronometer status, guarantees exceptional precision and performance, a fitting choice for a character like James Bond, who relies on precise timing and reliability in critical situations.

Collectability and Value

Omega’s James Bond watches are highly collectible, often produced in limited editions that appeal to both watch enthusiasts and Bond fans. These special editions frequently feature unique case backs, special packaging, and additional accessories, enhancing their desirability. The association with James Bond also adds a layer of intrigue and prestige, often resulting in these watches appreciating in value over time.

Conclusion

With the history of 007 Omega watches, Omega’s partnership with the James Bond franchise has produced some of the most stylish and technically advanced watches in the market. These timepieces combine classic design, rugged durability, and cutting-edge technology, making them suitable for both fans of the franchise and horology enthusiasts. Whether for their aesthetic appeal, precision engineering, or collectible value, James Bond Omega watches stand out as exceptional pieces in the world of luxury watches.

References

A Complete List of All James Bond 007 Watches (online). https://manofmany.com/fashion/watches/a-complete-list-of-all-the-james-bond-watches

History of Goldsmiths (online). https://www.goldsmiths.co.uk/i/our-history

OPEN TIMELINE (online). https://www.omegawatches.com/chronicle