Last Updated on December 28, 2024 by Jason
This Omega bumper automatic wristwatch, dating from 1952, represents the transition from traditional manual-wind watches to automatic movements. In this instance, the bumper automatic movement was an Omega calibre 351. Its stainless steel case, signed crown, and iconic bumper automatic movement make it an appealing choice for vintage watch collectors.
History of Omega
Omega was founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, initially as a small workshop producing pocket watches. Over the years, Omega developed a reputation for precision and reliability. A major milestone for the company came in 1894 with the creation of the 19-ligne Omega calibre. This was a revolutionary movement that could be mass-produced and serviced easily. The success of this movement led to the company adopting the name Omega as its official brand in 1903.
Throughout the 20th century, Omega continued to innovate and expand. This progress earned Omega its place as one of the most respected names in the watch industry. Omega was chosen as the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games for the first time in 1932. Its watches gained further credibility during World War II when Omega supplied watches to military forces. This included one of the “Dirty Dozen” watches supplied to the British armed forces. The post-war period saw Omega develop groundbreaking timepieces, including the Seamaster and Speedmaster lines. The company’s legacy was solidified when the Omega Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
Omega’s automatic movements played a crucial role in its post-war success, particularly the introduction of the bumper automatic movements, which were a key step in the evolution of self-winding watches.
The history of bumper automatic movements
The bumper automatic movement is an important chapter in the history of self-winding watches. First introduced in the 1940s, these movements featured a distinctive winding mechanism that used a rotor to wind the mainspring. However, unlike modern full-rotor movements that rotate a full 360 degrees, the bumper rotor would pivot back and forth between two springs, “bumping” against them at each end of its movement. This created a characteristic sensation that gave these movements their name.
The bumper automatic was a clever solution to the challenge of creating a self-winding movement that could keep a watch powered through the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist. The back-and-forth motion of the bumper system wasn’t as efficient as later full-rotor designs. However, it was reliable and effective, making it popular in the 1940s and 1950s. Omega’s bumper automatic movements were highly regarded for their durability and accuracy, and they were used in many of the brand’s models during this period.
Omega produced bumper automatic movements until the mid-1950s.. After this, they transitioned to full-rotor automatic movements, such as the calibre 500 series. However, the bumper movements, particularly the calibre 351, remain highly valued by collectors today. This is due to their historical significance and mechanical charm.
Omega calibre 351
The Omega calibre 351 watch movement was produced between 1949 and 1955. The calibre 351 was widely used in Omega’s automatic watches throughout the early 1950s. This movement features 17 jewels, a standard at the time, which help reduce friction in the movement and improve its longevity and accuracy. The movement operates at a frequency of 19,800 vibrations per hour (vph), with a power reserve of 42 hours and Incabloc shock protection.
One of the key features of the calibre 351 is its robust construction. The bumper rotor, despite its somewhat archaic feel compared to full-rotor automatics, was a highly reliable mechanism. Collectors often describe the calibre 351 as a “workhorse” movement, built to last and maintain good accuracy even after decades of use. Known for its smooth operation, it may lack the efficiency of modern automatic movements, but it still performs solidly by vintage standards. The serial number of this particular calibre 351, 13,286,863, dates the watch to 1952.
The case and dial
This Omega watch from 1952 features a 35mm stainless steel case with a screw-on case back, a design element that enhances its durability and water resistance. The 35mm case may be considered modest by modern standards. However, it was a standard size for men’s watches in the 1950s. It still offers a classic, look that remains attractive to collectors today. The screw-on case back was a feature Omega used to improve water resistance. It was a precursor to the more advanced technologies seen in later models like the Seamaster.
The case reference 2637-4, inscribed inside the case back, is consistent with the calibre 351 movement. The stainless steel case has aged gracefully, with only minor scratches on the case back. The watch’s signed Omega crown is another important feature, enhancing the originality of the piece.
The watch features a signed dial, which has some light markings and discolouration around the 3, 6, 9, and 12 hour markers. This kind of patina is common in watches of this age and is often appreciated by collectors, as it adds character and uniqueness to the timepiece. The acrylic lens of the watch has some light markings. However, these are in line with what one would expect from a vintage watch of this era.
The dial’s layout is classic and elegant, with applied markers and slim hands that reflect the style of the 1950s. The light patina and ageing give the watch an authentic vintage feel. This makes it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a touch of character with their timepieces.
Summary
This Omega bumper automatic wristwatch is a fine representation of Omega’s contribution to 1950s Swiss watchmaking. With its calibre 351 movement, classic stainless-steel case, and vintage dial, this watch offers both historical value and timeless style. Vintage watch collectors are drawn to the charm and craftsmanship of Omega’s bumper automatic movements. This 1952 model stands as an excellent example. Whether worn as an everyday timepiece or on special occasions, this Omega watch would be a reliable and elegant timepiece.
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