Omega

1972 Omega Seamaster Chronograph Gold Plated (Ref. 176005) "False Jedi"

The Speedmaster might be the watch that made Omega a household name (and took it to the moon), but the Seamaster has been around quite a bit longer and has its own incredible legacy worth talking about. 

First released in 1948 in celebration of Omega’s centennial anniversary, the Seamaster became a worldwide success and was the brand’s top seller for decades. Today, it’s the longest-running name in the Omega catalog and still holds a special place in plenty of collectors’ hearts.  

This Seamaster chronograph perfectly fuses '70s style and Omega's watchmaking excellence, the latter of which is evidenced in large part by this watch's heartbeat – the Omega Cal. 1040. While starting life as a Lemania 1340 movement, Omega made the Cal. 1040 their own by bumping jewel count from 17 to 22 and adding a 24-hour indicator inside the running seconds subdial. 

The odd story of the "Jedi" nickname for an Omega Seamster Chronograph starts with the ref. 145.0024, or the "True Jedi". Though the ref. 176005 is often labeled as the Jedi as well. This confusion started when a prominent auction house in the 2000s mislabeled a ref. 176005 as a Jedi model in their catalog. To be fair the ref. 176005 does radiate space-age design with its large dimensions and uniquely shaped case.

Stock # OSM176005J
Brand Omega
Style Seamaster Chronograph "Jedi"
Model 176005
Serial 34XXXXXX
Size Men's
Material Gold Plated Stainless Steel
Dial Gold
Millimeters 42x49
Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap

 

CASE & BRACELET

Long sweeping curves and angles make up the large and proud gold-plated case which measures about 15.5mm in height and appears to remain in unpolished condition with honest signs of use present throughout. The case retains its original pump pushers and Omega-signed crown. The case back is extremely crisp, showing no evidence of being previously polished. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original gold dial is in flawless condition, showing no age or damage. The tritium lume plots have achieved a charming creamy patina with no degradation present under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands retain the original black enamel as well and display no degradation when inspected under UV light.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.