Omega Seamaster Olympic Cross of Merit

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SKU AS02688
SKU AS02688

Why We Love it

Why We Love It 

Seemingly every other day, one of the major contemporary brands rolls out a limited edition of some kind.  With numbered pieces and special packaging and low production numbers, this approach sometimes leaves collectors and enthusiasts feeling a sense of manufactured scarcity and thus, fabricated importance.

This makes a truly rare watch — inherently rare because so few were produced — a very special thing.  The 1956 Omega Olympic Cross of Merit is one of those special rare timepieces; Omega only made about 100 in this configuration, changing design for both dial and case for the production watch. 

Despite some degradation to the Chinese lacquer seal, this special and rare piece is in lovely condition.  The solid 18k yellow gold case cradles the complex dial nicely, the faceted coffin markers and dauphine hands playing nicely off the sloping lugs and 10-sided crown.

The Story

In 1952, Omega was awarded the Olympic Cross of Merit for "outstanding service to the world of sports."  To celebrate its long run of official timekeeping, Omega produced the XVI, a special execution of the Seamaster to be unveiled at the 16th Olympic Games in Melbourne, Australia. 

Omega set forth to create a unique watch, enlisting the help of a revered Omega prototype maker Jean-Pierre Matthey-Claudet to construct a distinct case and dial.  For the case, Matthey-Claudet applied rarely-seen 'Frog Leg' lugs, and precious metal.  When he turned to the dial, he elected to use Chinese lacquer to incorporate the Olympic Cross of Merit seal at 6:00.  However, as the story goes, Omega didn't properly secure the rights to use the seal on the dial of the watches, resulting in only around 100 pieces being produced in 1956.

It's widely rumored that Seamasters were never retailed, but rather given away to executives, dignitaries and celebrities.  The production of the XVI commenced, but the seal was removed and replaced with applied roman numerals 'XVI.' 

A:S Guarantee

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Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Shipping & Returns

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All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Omega Seamaster Olympic Cross of Merit

Omega Seamaster Olympic Cross of Merit

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Omega Seamaster Olympic Cross of Merit

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