When it comes to luxury watches, few brands hold the prestige and universal appeal of Omega watches. With a rich horological history spanning over 175 years, Omega has been at the forefront of innovation, style, and reliability, whether it’s vintage timepieces or more modern innovations that look like luxury.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an investor, you may wonder, do Omega watches hold their value? The answer is important, especially if you ever plan to sell the piece or want to know if your investment will increase in value over time. Rest assured, when it comes to the Omega brand, their pieces are not only timeless but also priceless.
What You Will Learn
- A Brief History of Omega Watches
- Iconic Omega Watch Models and Their Lasting Appeal
- Factors That Influence the Value Retention of Omega Watches
- Omega Compared to Other Luxury Brands
- Where Are Omega Watches Made?
- Understanding Omega's Unique Resale Value
- Omega Watch FAQs
- Omega Watches Are Pure Luxury with Historical Value
A Brief History of Omega Watches
Founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Omega SA has been an enduring symbol of the craftsmanship behind high-quality watches for nearly two centuries. The brand started as a small operation in which Brandt — only 23-years-old at the time — hand-assembled pocket watches. Due to his commitment to precision and innovation, the company quickly evolved and found buyers in various parts of Europe.
Just a few decades later, in the late 19th century, Omega emerged as an international name under the leadership of Brandt’s sons, Louis Paul and César, who took over the business after their father passed away in 1879. The brand’s breakthrough came with the original Omega calibre in 1892. It’s considered the very first “minute-repeating wristwatch” developed anywhere in the world that “chimed the hours and minutes on demand,” according to the brand’s website. Two years later, in 1894, the company introduced the 19-ligne caliber. This incredibly accurate timepiece became synonymous with the Omega brand’s legacy.
By the early 20th century, the 1900 Universal Expo in Paris acknowledged Omega with the Grand Prize. Because of its accurate timepieces, Omega served as an official timekeeper for many prestigious sporting events, including many of the Olympic Games (starting in 1932 in Los Angeles). The international attention only furthered the company’s global recognition. Omega watches made history in WWII as well, outfitting the British Armed Forces. As well their Medicus wristwatch that helped nurses on the battlefields read pulses.
In the latter decades, Omega announced other key developments. The company became part of the Swatch Group in 1983, which helped solidify its reputation as a creator of high-quality watches. This dedication to innovation, particularly the introduction of the Co-Axial escapement in the 1990s and its unique partnership with James Bond movies in the same decade, has helped Omega retain its value in the luxury market.
Iconic Omega Watch Models and Their Lasting Appeal
Omega’s portfolio boasts some of the most iconic models in horology, each with a distinct appeal and incredible potential for value retention. Here are three of Omega’s standout models:
1. Omega Speedmaster
One of the most celebrated models, the Omega Speedmaster watch, has a storied history tied to space exploration. In 1969, the Omega Speedmaster Professional became the first watch worn on the moon as part of a kit given to each of the famed Apollo 11 astronauts. The partnership continued as part of the Apollo 13 and Apollo 17 missions. And, in 1975, when US and Russian spaceships historically docked in space and shook hands, both astronaut commanders were wearing the Speedmaster.
This association with the Apollo missions and NASA has created a unique appeal for Omega watch collectors and made the Speedmaster a popular choice. As a result, vintage Speedmaster models and limited editions often fetch high prices on the resale market.
2. Omega Seamaster
The Omega Seamaster collection has become synonymous with style and functionality, partly due to its association with beloved James Bond movies. Since Pierce Brosnan’s portrayal of the secret agent in 1995’s GoldenEye, the Seamaster has become Bond’s watch of choice, adding a layer of mystique and allure.
Within the Seamaster line, models like the Seamaster Planet Ocean are notable for their rugged design, which can withstand underwater conditions, and for their infallible diving capabilities. This legacy, both on land and in water, has only further enhanced the watch’s value retention.
In 2022, as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations for James Bond, Omega announced that they received record bids for Bond watches via an auction with Christie’s. The Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition fetched a remarkable record-breaking price of GBP 226,800 (or about $279,475 in US dollars). This sleek, military-inspired Omega watch was a design collaboration with Bond actor Daniel Craig.
3. Omega Planet Ocean
The Seamaster line welcomed a new model, the Omega Planet Ocean, in 2005. Like other Omega Seamaster products, it features state-of-the-art waterproof materials that withstand extended depths below sea level. The Planet Ocean option stands out for its water resistance capabilities, advanced materials, and bold design, including Super-LumiNova lights that make the watch interface easier to see underwater.
Often referred to as a luxury diver’s watch, the Planet Ocean design is not usually considered an investment watch; however, limited editions and collaborations have further enhanced its status, making it a highly sought-after model on the secondary market.
Factors That Influence the Value Retention of Omega Watches
To understand Omega watch resale value, it’s important to first consider the factors that contribute to an appraisal of luxury watches. These factors are often tied to the brand’s craftsmanship, innovation, exclusivity, and market demand—all areas where Omega watches excel.
- Brand heritage and craftsmanship: Omega’s heritage, built on Louis Brandt’s original foundation of excellence, is a primary factor in its value retention. The brand’s commitment to producing high-quality watches with meticulous attention to detail resonates with buyers looking for investment-worthy timepieces. Each finished watch that leaves the Omega factory undergoes rigorous testing to meet Swiss chronometer standards, ensuring its performance and durability.
- Technological innovation: Over time, Omega has introduced several innovations, most notably the Co-Axial escapement. This technology, pioneered by Omega and designed to reduce friction, extends the watch’s lifespan and improves timekeeping accuracy. This and other features, like the brand’s use of the original Omega calibre, set the company apart from competitors and contribute to its substantial resale value.
- Limited editions: Omega produces limited-edition models and special releases that cater to collectors. Limited-edition Omega Speedmaster models, for example, are highly sought after due to their scarcity and unique design elements. The brand’s ability to create demand for these unique pieces contributes to Omega’s appeal in the secondary market.
- Recognition in pop culture: From its connection to NASA to its presence in James Bond movies, the Omega brand has substantial cultural appeal. This affiliation with iconic moments in history and culture enhances Omega’s brand equity and makes its watches desirable among fans and collectors.
Omega Compared to Other Luxury Brands
As incredible as they are, Omega’s high-quality watches are not in a league of their own. The brand competes with other prestigious brands like Rolex watches and Patek Philippe. Here’s a look at how Omega stacks up against its competitors in terms of value retention and appeal:
- Rolex: Rolex watches are arguably the most well-known in the luxury market, viewed as the standard for value retention when it comes to high-quality watches. Due to their brand recognition and limited supply, Rolex watches typically have higher resale values. While Omega may not consistently achieve Rolex’s resale returns, its watches remain highly valued, particularly with specific models like the Speedmaster.
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Patek Philippe: Known for its exclusivity and fine craftsmanship, Patek Philippe offers watches that are often seen as a superior investment within the high-end market. Patek Philippe’s vintage watches regularly fetch millions at auctions, making them highly desirable. Omega does not compete in the same ultra-luxury segment. However, its legacy and craftsmanship still hold value for those looking for a solid investment within a more accessible price range.
Where Are Omega Watches Made?
Omega’s headquarters are in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland. The country has long been considered the epicenter of fine watchmaking, a history that extends five centuries. Since the country is politically neutral, many of the world’s expert crafters escaped during conflict and carried on their trade. Even today, the Omega factory upholds the long-honored standards of Swiss watchmaking, as finished watches are crafted with precision and quality assurance.
As part of its sprawling campus, the Omega Museum is an incredible place for fans and tourists. It has high-tech features and experiences that bring people into the Omega world. For example, the museum has a 9-meter running track where visitors can feel like they are competing in the Olympic Games and have their official time logged. There are also NASA and James Bond exhibits and a display of vintage watches from across Omega’s long history.
Understanding Omega's Unique Resale Value
If and when it comes time to sell part of your collection, you’ll be happy to know that most Omega watches generally perform well on the resale market, fetching around 60-80% of their original retail price. However, various factors will influence the exact value of specific models.
- The parameters for Omega watch resale value include the model, its condition, its rarity, and its historical or cultural significance. For example, vintage timepieces like the Moonwatch Speedmaster or limited-edition Seamaster models often fetch impressive prices.
- If you’re wondering, do Omega watches appreciate in value? The answer is, in many cases, yes. Some Omega watches, especially limited editions or those with historical significance, tend to increase in value over time. A great example was seen with the Christie’s auction for Bond-licensed Omega watches in 2022. And Omega watches like the Speedmaster or certain Seamaster models that have ties to iconic events can also experience value growth, making them solid long-term investments.
Omega Watch FAQs
Where is Omega made?
Omega watches are manufactured in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, upholding Swiss watchmaking’s rigorous and time-honored standards. This Swiss origin is integral to Omega’s reputation for quality, precision, and luxury.
Where is Omega from?
Omega was founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. Today, the brand remains a symbol of craftsmanship and innovation celebrated worldwide.
Why are Omega watches valuable to collectors?
Omega’s rich heritage, connection to iconic events (like the Apollo missions to space), and limited-edition releases appeal to collectors. These elements and excellent Swiss craftsmanship contribute to substantial resale value and lasting desirability.
What is the Omega Co-Axial movement, and why is it important?
The Omega Co-Axial escapement is a watch mechanism that reduces friction within the timepiece, improving accuracy and longevity. Introduced in the 1990s, it has become a key feature in many Omega watches, offering superior performance and less frequent servicing.
Do Omega Watches Increase in Value?
Some models do appreciate in value; however, it depends on the model and its historical significance. For example, Speedmasters associated with NASA can fetch significant returns. However, most models will bring in about 60-80% of their original retail price.
Omega Watches Are Pure Luxury with Historical Value
Do Omega watches hold their value? Overall, yes, especially compared to many other luxury watch brands. While they may not reach the peak resale value of brands like Rolex watches, specific Omega models — especially vintage watches and limited editions — offer excellent value retention and even appreciation over time.
If you’re considering investing in an Omega watch, you should also consider getting some form of insurance. BriteCo’s comprehensive jewelry insurance includes watches, with policies crafted to protect all your valuables. We provide coverage against loss, theft, damage, mysterious disappearances, and natural disasters.
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