Omega seems to be a recurring theme at Set Back in Time. Its not really surprising, Omega is a very well-respected brand and their movements are superb. A well maintained Omega movement will last for generations. This particular watch was brought our attention by one of our regulars. It is an Omega 30T2 wristwatch dating to 1947.
A brief history of Omega
Omega’s story began in 1848, when Louis Brandt opened a workshop in La Chaux-de-Fonds and assembled key-wound pocket watches from locally sourced parts. After his death in 1879, his sons relocated the firm to Biel/Bienne, where they modernised production and brought manufacturing under one roof. In 1894, the Brandt brothers unveiled the “Omega” movement, featuring interchangeable components and outstanding timekeeping accuracy. Its success prompted the company to adopt “Omega” as its official name in 1903.
Omega expanded quickly in the early twentieth century and became the official Olympic timekeeper in 1932. The company produced highly accurate wristwatches, marine chronometers, and pilot’s watches, and supplied military timepieces during both World Wars. In 1957, Omega introduced the Speedmaster, Seamaster, and Railmaster collections. The Speedmaster achieved historic status in 1969 as the first watch worn on the Moon after passing NASA’s rigorous tests. Omega struggled during the quartz crisis of the 1970s and 1980s, finding it difficult to compete with inexpensive Japanese quartz models. The brand’s prestige suffered, and Omega was absorbed into the Swatch Group in the late 1980s (Omega at Watch Wiki).
Omega 30T2 PC calibre
The 30T2 is a well regarded movement known for its robustness and ease of servicing. It remained in production for more than 25 years, and benefitted from a series of improvements, including the addition of shock protection. Omega produced both central-seconds and sub-seconds variants, as well as chronometer-certified versions. The movement also powered a number of Omega watches issued to the military during the Second World War.
This particular watch has a 15-jewel 30T2 PC hand-winding movement which is working well. It runs slightly fast, at +1 minute per day, which is more than acceptable for a watch of its age. The movement is fully signed and it has an Omega serial number which dates it back to 1947. The Omega 30T2 PC, is a variant of Omega’s renowned 30T2 military movement. The PC version includes Incabloc shock protection.
According to the Ranfft database, the Omega 30T2 movement was in production since 1939. It has 15 jewels, a power reserve of 44 hours and a frequency of 18,000 vph.
Dial and case
The watch measures 33 mm in diameter, excluding the later replacement winding crown and the lugs. The “Denisteel” case was made for Omega by the English case-maker Dennison, commissioned, it is believed, to avoid Customs duty on complete watches. The case carries the case reference 13322 and presents beautifully for its age. Only a small mark on the lower right lug interrupts an otherwise very clean exterior, and it remains far from distracting. The 13322 case reference is far from rare, and Dennison produced it for many decades. Examples have appeared on models from Omega, Tissot, and Longines, among others. Dennison also manufactured the case in a variety of materials, including stainless steel and gold.
The crystal is in excellent condition, clear and free from noticeable blemishes. The signed dial retains its original finish and is complemented by its original feuille hands. Light, age-related patina is visible on the dial. This remains entirely in keeping with a well-preserved 1940s example and does nothing to diminish its charm.
Summary
This Omega 30T2 wristwatch includes a combination of qualities that make it genuinely stand out. Its solid movement the 30T2 PC, represents one of Omega’s most respected calibers, noted for its durability, accuracy, and simplicity. The “Denisteel” case adds a refined, understated charm, while the dial has aged beautifully, giving it that warm, character-rich patina collectors admire. Adding to its appeal is its partly British provenance, a detail that gives the watch an extra layer of historical nuance and local interest. And perhaps best of all, it remained relatively affordable, which makes its overall package even more appealing. A nice watch and a very welcome addition to a valued member’s collection.
Leave a Reply