Omega "State of Qatar" Squared Dresswatch Oxblood Stella-esque Dial from Original Owner Family in 18k yellow Gold with integrated Woven Bracelet, late 1970

Dealer description — Bulang & Sons

Founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Omega evolved from a small family-run workshop into one of the world’s most influential watch manufactures. Its legacy has been shaped by a relentless pursuit of precision, earning the brand a place in history through space exploration, deep-sea diving and its longstanding role as the Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games. Offered here is a truly rare and fascinating Omega. Acquired directly from the heirs of the original owner, a former Minister of Tunisia, this elegant 18k yellow-gold dress watch measures 32 × 32 mm. While modest in size on paper, its square case, integrated bracelet and substantial gold construction give it a much greater presence on the wrist. Whether you call it square or television-shaped, the case remains in lovely condition, with crisp hallmarks still visible on the snap-on case back and a charming tiger’s eye cabochon set into the winding crown. The real highlight, however, is the spectacular oxblood-red dial. Finished in a rich lacquer with remarkable depth and gloss, it immediately brings to mind the celebrated “Stella” dials found on vintage Rolex Day-Dates. This particular watch was commissioned by the State of Qatar during the reign of Sheikh Khalifa and was intended as an official presentation piece. Watches such as this were often gifted to senior government officials, diplomats and close friends of the state. The example offered here was presented to a Tunisian government minister during the 1980s. We acquired this watch — together with an equally fascinating IWC bearing the green Omani Khanjar emblem — directly from his heirs. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, and in accordance with their wishes, we will not disclose any names or personal details. What we can say is that, throughout our conversations with the family, it became abundantly clear how deeply admired and respected their father and grandfather was. Returning to the dial, its restrained design allows the rich lacquer finish to take centre stage. Applied baton markers, a date aperture, the gold-printed emblem of the State of Qatar and the Arabic inscription “Khalifa” create a wonderfully balanced and highly unusual composition. Powering the watch is Omega’s red-gilt automatic calibre 1010, freshly serviced by our watchmaker and ready to provide many more years of reliable service. Completing the watch is its beautifully crafted integrated 18k yellow-gold woven mesh bracelet, which currently fits wrists up to 18.5 cm. Far more than an elegant gold dress watch, this remarkable Omega tells a story of diplomacy, craftsmanship and history. With its striking oxblood dial and fascinating State of Qatar provenance, it is ready to continue its journey with its next custodian. Get in touch with us! Specifications: Omega “TV shape” 18k Yellow Gold Dresswatch 32x 32 mm 18k yellow gold case with tiger eye stone cabochon on setting crown "State of Qatar" Oxblood Dial movement no 823xxx, case number 162 xxxx dating to the late 1970’s Omega Cal. 1010 automatic movement, red gilted Original integrated yellow 18k mesh style gold bracelet Fully serviced by our watchmaker From the family of the original owner