Olympic Glory – Omega Seamaster 1948 Co-Axial London 2012 Limited Edition

On your mark, get set, go. The gun fires, propelling the runners toward Olympic Gold, and the 2012 summer Olympics are underway. Omega has already found the podium with their Olympic Collection London 2012.

What better way to make a splash at the London opening ceremonies than with a commemorative Seamaster. 64 Years after Omega launched the very first Seamaster during the London Olympics of 1948, they release a new Seamaster at the London Olympics of 2012. Showing quite some visual resemblance with the vintage version!

Omega actually released three new Seamaster models. One of these three limited editions for the 2012 Olympics is the limited edition Seamaster 1948 Co-Axial Chronometer. Omega interprets the traditional Marine Chronometer with silver. From the rhodium-plated case to the opaline silver dial to the applied 18 Ct white gold hour markers, interrupted only by the understated blued, small seconds hand, the watch is an elegant statement. At a svelte 39 mm, it will pair nicely with a suit and is ready for the transatlantic crossing to the United Kingdom.

Being an Omega, this watch is more than just a pretty face. Its in-house, 2022 caliber movement with co-axial escapement bespeak Omega engineering, but its 120-meter water resistance and leather strap limit this jewel to the quarterdeck. Its Chronometer designation means that it is COSC certified. I like the slightly domed crystal, which gives the watch a vintage feel. Unlike many Marine Chronometers running on Unitas movements, there is no need to hand wind the crown because this Chronometer’s movement is an automatic with a 48-hour power reserve. Without a date complication or lume, the Chronometer retains its historic, nautical identity.

The Seamaster 1948 Co-Axial Chronometer is one of three models; the other two are chronographs, released in celebration of the London Olympic games. The company has a rich Olympic history that spans over eighty years with this year marking their twenty-fifth year as Official Timekeeper. In fact, the first Seamaster was introduced the last time London hosted the Olympic games; that year was 1948, and the legend continues.

When you turn the watch over, the silver case gives way to a yellow gold back emblazoned with the London commemoration. The contrast burns as brightly as the Olympic torch. This is the only model with the yellow gold back resembling the Gold Medal. For the owner, such brilliance is a stealth luxury hidden against the wrist, but surely such glory was meant to be shared, giving one the occasion to reminisce about Olympic achievements yet to be, but never forgotten.

More information about Omega timepieces can be found on the Omega website and their official Facebook page.

This article is written by Max E. Reddick, editor of Monochrome Watches.