Omega Art Deco Sector Dial Watch, circa 1930s

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

The 1930s marked an exciting period for Omega, as the Swiss manufacturer combined its established reputation for precision watchmaking with the changing tastes of the Art Deco era. Wristwatches were becoming increasingly sophisticated, with cleaner case designs, carefully balanced proportions and striking geometric dials replacing some of the more decorative styles of earlier decades. Among the most recognisable designs of this period were sector dials, characterised by concentric rings, carefully divided hour markers and fine crosshair detailing. Their distinctive appearance reflected the Art Deco fascination with symmetry and geometry, creating watches that were both practical instruments and beautifully considered pieces of design. Often described by collectors as Calatrava-style watches, these elegant round Omega models share the restrained proportions and understated sophistication associated with classic dress watches of the period. The Omega 26.5 movement family, introduced during the 1920s, became an important part of the manufacturer's early wristwatch production and remained in use through various developments during the following decades. Today, these early Omega sector dial watches are appreciated for their period styling, mechanical craftsmanship and enduring elegance. What's on Offer Here we have a beautifully presented Omega Art Deco sector dial wristwatch , dating to approximately 1935–1939, housed in a stainless steel case and powered by the manually wound Omega Calibre 26.5 T3 RC.T1. Measuring approximately 32mm across, excluding the crown, the case features a slim, rounded bezel and elegantly tapered lugs that give the watch its classic 1930s proportions. The lug-to-lug measurement is 37mm, with an 18mm lug width, creating a compact and comfortable vintage dress watch. The stainless steel case displays marks of wear consistent with its considerable age, retaining the attractive lines and understated character of the original design. A contrasting gold-coloured crown adds a subtle touch of warmth, with some wear to its plating revealing the underlying metal. The real attraction, however, is the refinished ivory sector dial , which beautifully captures the geometric styling of the Art Deco period. A softly contrasting taupe sector ring surrounds the silver-toned central section, while fine black crosshair lines divide the dial into four precisely balanced quarters. The outer railway minute track features detailed markings and numerals at five-minute intervals, providing a lovely sense of depth and intricacy. Stylised Arabic numerals at 12, 3 and 9 o'clock reinforce the watch's period appearance, while the traditional Omega signature sits neatly beneath 12. At 6 o'clock, a recessed subsidiary seconds dial features delicate concentric detailing, completing the beautifully symmetrical arrangement. Elegant dark hands provide a striking contrast against the lighter dial, maintaining excellent legibility. The watch is protected by a vintage-style crystal which displays some signs of age, as visible in the photographs. Inside is the Omega Calibre 26.5 T3 RC.T1 , a 15-jewel manually wound mechanical movement. The movement has been serviced, offering reassurance alongside the pleasure of owning an early example of Omega's mechanical watchmaking. The watch is fitted with a soft grey leather strap featuring contrasting stitching, which complements the cool tones of the stainless steel case and understated dial. With its beautifully executed Art Deco styling, refined proportions and serviced mechanical movement, this is a delightful example of pre-war Omega design. Condition Details: Crystal: Good Dial: Excellent Bezel: Very Good Case: Good Movement: Serviced Overall: Very Good