1970s Olma Caravelle 200 Super-Compressor (Ref. 0775/3)

For an otherwise mostly uncelebrated brand within the vintage watch world, the watches that came from Olma are extremely well-executed and interestingly designed, thus resulting a a great value proposition for an awesome group of vintage timepieces.

Patented in 1956 by Ervin Piquerez SA (EPSA), the SuperCompressor case possessed a unique sealing system that set it apart from other dive watch cases of the day. When exposed to higher water pressure, the spring-loaded case back of the SuperCompressor case is sealed even tighter the deeper it goes. Another innovation of the SuperCompressor was its approach to securing the bezel. As most diving watch timing bezels of the era rotated outside the case, the Super Compressor’s timing bezel rotated internally and was operated externally through a secondary crown, giving the watch its distinctive twin-crown design. Dozens of other brands released dive watches with SuperCompressor cases, the most notable being Jaeger-LeCoultre, Longines, Enicar, Benrus, and Wittnauer.

SPECS

Stock #		OLC7753
Brand		Olma
Style		Caravelle 200
Model		0775/3
Serial		866
Size		Men's
Material		Stainless Steel
Dial		Matte Black
Millimeters		43
Strap		2pc Rubber Strap

CASE & BRACELET

The robust and large "C-shaped" case is very well-preserved, showing honest signs of use while retaining the original factory dimensions, bevels, and overall design. The case retains its original twin crown, featuring the classic super-compressor cross-hatched texture. The case back retains its original factory markings, though they remain slightly faded from wear. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc gray tropic rubber strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black dial is in virtually perfect condition, showing no damage or notable elements of age. The multi-colored inner rotating bezel operated by the 2 o'clock crown is also in exceptional condition with the white, black, grey, and red colors making for a very sporty, yet handsome design. The tritium lume on the dial and the tritium lumed triangle on the bezel features a creamy yellow patina and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands show no degradation and match the dial perfectly, though there is a small piece of white paint loss in the minute hand.