Omega Seamaster KX6082

This gold-filled automatic calendar watch stands as a testament to the creative partnership between Omega in Bienne and their influential US distributor, Norman Morris Corporation. While Swiss-cased Seamaster Calendars from the late 1950s are well documented, the KX6082 remains a lesser-known variant that embodies the unique design philosophy applied to watches destined for American wrists.

For collectors, the KX6082 offers an intriguing combination: legitimate Omega engineering housed in domestically produced American cases, featuring design elements that bridge Swiss horology and American market preferences. This reference demonstrates how Omega adapted to US import duties and consumer tastes while maintaining the mechanical excellence that defined the brand.

History & Production Period

The Omega Seamaster KX6082 was produced from approximately 1958 through 1960, emerging during a pivotal period in Omega’s US market strategy. This reference was manufactured exclusively for the American market through the Norman Morris Corporation, which served as Omega’s sole US distributor from 1930 through 1980.​​

The KX6082 arrived at a time when Omega was expanding its Seamaster Calendar line following the success of earlier calendar models. The reference sits within the broader context of Norman Morris’s domestic case manufacturing program, where Swiss movements were imported and cased locally in the United States. This arrangement allowed Omega to circumvent punitive import duties levied on fully assembled watches and movements with more than 17 jewels, making premium automatic watches more accessible to American buyers.​​

The Norman Morris partnership produced dozens of unique reference numbers that never appeared in Swiss catalogs, with the KX6082 being one of the more distinctive calendar-equipped variants. Production numbers for this specific reference are not documented, but the relative scarcity of surviving examples suggests modest production volumes, likely in the low thousands. The reference was discontinued around 1960 as Norman Morris transitioned to newer case designs and calibers.​

The KX6082’s position within the Seamaster lineup placed it as a mid-tier dress watch offering, bridging the gap between simple time-only Seamasters and more expensive precious metal variants. Its calendar complication and automatic winding made it a practical choice for the American professional class of the late 1950s.

Technical Specifications

The case proportions reflect 1950s sizing conventions, which favored more modest dimensions than modern standards. The 34mm diameter sits comfortably on wrists between 6.5 and 7.5 inches, offering excellent wrist presence without overwhelming smaller frames. The relatively thin profile makes this an ideal dress watch that slips easily under shirt cuffs.

Movement: Caliber 502

The KX6082 is powered by the Omega caliber 502, an automatic movement specifically developed for the US market with reduced jewel count to minimize import tariffs.​

Caliber 502 Specifications

Movement Characteristics

The caliber 502 was introduced in 1956 as part of Omega’s early 500-series family, representing a significant advancement over earlier bumper-automatic movements. This full-rotor automatic winds in both directions, providing superior winding efficiency compared to unidirectional systems. The 17-jewel configuration is the defining characteristic of US market calibers, with the caliber 502 being essentially a jewel-reduced version of the 20-jewel caliber 503 used in Swiss-market Seamaster Calendars.​

The movement features Incabloc shock protection, a monometallic balance with flat balance spring, and an Etachron regulator system. The date mechanism operates via a finger that advances the date disc at midnight, though it lacks quickset functionality. Users must advance the date by rotating the hands through multiple 24-hour cycles, a characteristic of all 500-series calibers.​

The movement carries the “OXG” import code stamped on the balance bridge or movement plate, identifying it as an official Norman Morris import. This marking is critical for authenticating US market watches.​​

Dial Variations

The KX6082 appeared with multiple dial configurations, though certain design elements remained consistent across the production run.​​

Common Dial Characteristics

All KX6082 dials feature:

• Date window at 3 o’clock position
• Applied hour markers (typically arrowhead or dagger-shaped)​​
• Dauphine or leaf-shaped hands​
• “Seamaster” or “Seamaster Calendar” designation
• “Automatic” designation
• “Swiss Made” or “Swiss” at 6 o’clock​​

Dial Color Variations

The KX6082 is documented in the following dial colors:

Silver/Champagne Dials: The most common variant, featuring applied gilt markers that complement the gold-filled case. These dials often develop a warm patina over time, shifting from bright silver to creamy champagne tones. The sunburst finishing creates depth and visual interest.​​

Off-White/Cream Dials: Original dials that have aged naturally, showing light discoloration while maintaining their original texture and printing.​

Black Dials: Less common on the KX6082 specifically, though black gilt dials appeared on related Seamaster Calendar references from the same period. These feature gilt applied markers and gilt printing that develops warm copper tones with age.​

Marker Styles

Arrowhead Markers: The most distinctive style, featuring gilt applied arrowhead or arrow-shaped indices at all hour positions except 3 o’clock (where the date window sits). This design is sometimes called “explorer-style” due to its resemblance to certain Rolex Explorer dials.​​

Dagger/Baton Markers: Some examples feature simpler dagger-shaped or elongated baton markers, providing a more conservative aesthetic.​​

Combination Layouts: Certain variants combine Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9 with applied markers at other positions, though this is less common on the KX6082 specifically.

Dial Printing and Text

Dial text follows this hierarchy:

1. “OMEGA” at 12 o’clock (applied logo on some variants, printed on others)
2. “Automatic” below the Omega designation
3. “Seamaster” or “Seamaster Calendar” in the center section
4. “Swiss” or “Swiss Made” at 6 o’clock

Crosshair or target-style printing (thin lines radiating from the center) appears on some examples, adding visual complexity.​

Luminous Material

Period-correct KX6082 dials used radium-based luminous material on the hands and markers through approximately 1958-1959, transitioning to tritium-based lume in the early 1960s. Original luminous material exhibits a warm cream or light-brown patina. If a dial from this era shows “T Swiss Made T” markings (indicating tritium), the watch likely dates to the very end of production or later.​

Omega Seamaster Automatic Calendar – KX 6082 – The Wrist Watcher 

Case & Bezel Construction

The KX6082 case represents a distinctive approach to gold-filled watch construction, with specific design elements that differentiate it from Swiss-cased Seamaster variants.​​

Case Materials and Manufacture

The case construction follows the “gold-filled” sandwich method, where a thick layer of 10K gold is mechanically bonded to a base metal core, typically brass. By US law, the gold layer must comprise at least 1/20th of the total case thickness, providing substantial durability compared to gold plating. The case back is stainless steel, stamped with “Omega Watch Co,” “Swiss Made,” and the case reference “KX6082” alongside the case back number “E69411”.​

The cases were manufactured by American case makers, most commonly the Star Watch Case Company of Ludington, Michigan. Star produced gold-filled cases for numerous watch brands from 1906 through the 1980s, developing expertise in durable case construction.​

Case Design

The KX6082 features a three-piece case construction:​

1. Removable bezel with crystal retention
2. Main case body with integrated lugs
3. Snap-on stainless steel case back with internal gasket

The case shape follows typical 1950s Seamaster proportions with gently curved lugs that taper toward the spring bar holes. The case sides exhibit a polished finish, while some examples show brushed or matte sections on the lug tops. The bezel is smooth and polished, with no markings or decorative elements.

Case Back Details

The snap-on case back requires a case knife for opening, with a small indentation on the edge to facilitate removal. Inside the case back, multiple stampings identify the watch:​​

• “OMEGA WATCH CO”
• “SWISS MADE”
• “KX6082” (model reference)
• “E69411” (case back number)
• “10K GOLD FILLED” or “10K G.F.” marking
• Star Watch Case Company markings (on some examples)

The case interior accommodates a flat rubber or cork gasket between the case back and case body to provide minimal moisture resistance. While the watch features this gasket and a crown gasket, it should not be considered water-resistant by modern standards.​​

Crystal

Original equipment includes an acrylic crystal with an internal metal tension ring that seats into a groove in the bezel. This tension ring provides additional water resistance and keeps the crystal firmly in place. Some higher-grade examples featured an Omega-signed crown logo etched into the crystal center. The acrylic crystal sits relatively tall, creating a dome profile that characterizes vintage Seamaster design.​​

Crown

The winding crown measures approximately 5.2mm in diameter and should be signed with the Omega logo. The crown is non-screw-down and features a gasket for basic water resistance. Original crowns display crisp Omega symbol engraving, while service replacement crowns may show softer or different styling.​

Bracelet & Strap Options

The KX6082 was originally sold on leather straps rather than bracelets, reflecting its positioning as a dress watch.​

Period-Correct Straps

Original retail presentation included:

• Leather straps: 18mm width at the lugs, typically in brown, black, or tan leather. Common styles included smooth calfskin, crocodile-grain, or lizard-grain patterns.​​
• Buckle: Gold-tone plated buckles marked “OMEGA” or generic gold-colored buckles. Some examples included signed 10K gold-filled buckles matching the case material.​

Contemporary Bracelet Options

While no specific Omega bracelet was designed for the KX6082, collectors sometimes pair these watches with:

• Vintage Omega expansion bracelets from the late 1950s
• Gay Frères mesh bracelets (though these would be aftermarket additions)
• Modern leather straps in vintage styles

For authenticity, leather remains the most appropriate choice. An 18mm strap allows for numerous high-quality options that complement the watch’s gold-filled case and refined aesthetic.

Identifying Original vs. Replaced Parts

Authentication of the KX6082 requires careful examination of multiple components, as the US-market origin and age make these watches vulnerable to modification.​​

Dial Authentication

Original dials exhibit:

• Consistent patina across the entire surface, with natural aging that matches the watch’s era​
• Crisp, evenly applied printing with correct font styles for the period​
• Applied markers firmly attached with no gaps or evidence of re-gluing​
• Correct luminous material color (cream to light brown patina) matching between dial markers and hands​
• “Swiss” or “Swiss Made” marking at 6 o’clock (absence is a strong indicator of refinishing)​​
• Subtle texture variations appropriate to the dial finish (sunburst, matte, etc.)​​

Signs of refinishing include:

• Overly pristine appearance inconsistent with case wear​
• Font inconsistencies or incorrect spacing in printed text​​
• Thick, uneven, or too-dark crosshair lines​
• Missing “Swiss Made” text​
• Perfectly matched lume color that appears too white or too uniform​
• Glue deposits around applied markers visible under magnification​
• High-gloss finish on dials that should be matte or textured​

Dial refinishing was extremely common on vintage Seamasters, particularly those with black dials. Many 1950s Seamasters have been refinished at some point in their lives, significantly impacting collector value.​​

Hands

Original hands should match the dial’s luminous material in color and aging. Dauphine or leaf-style hands are correct for the period, with gilt finish complementing gilt dial markers. Replacement hands often show brighter lume, different shapes, or mismatched finishing.​

Movement Verification

The caliber 502 is the only correct movement for the KX6082. Key verification points:

• 17 jewel count (not 19 or 20 jewels)​
• “OXG” import marking on the balance bridge or movement​​
• Serial number consistent with late 1950s production (approximately 16-17 million range)​
• Correct rotor design for early 500-series calibers

Be aware that parts interchangeability within the 500-series means some movements may have replacement components from calibers 500, 501, 503, or 505. While functional, mixed-caliber movements reduce collector value.​

Crown Authenticity

Original Omega-signed crowns display crisp logo engraving. Generic replacement crowns or crowns from other Omega references are commonly substituted during service. While not devastating to value, correct crowns enhance authenticity.​​

Case Condition

Unpolished cases retain:

• Sharp, crisp lug edges and case angles​
• Original brushed sections (if present)
• Consistent gold-filled surface without wear-through to base metal​

Over-polishing indicators:

• Rounded lug edges and softened case lines​
• Loss of detail around hallmarks and case back engravings
• Thin appearance suggesting excessive material removal
• Wear-through to base metal on edges or high points​

Gold-filled cases tolerate gentle polishing better than gold-plated cases but can still suffer from overzealous refinishing. The relatively thick gold layer (compared to plating) means moderate polishing is acceptable if edges and proportions remain sharp. However, wear-through to the base metal core is irreversible and costly to repair properly.​

Omega Seamaster (Cal. 502) 

Collector Notes & Market Context

The Omega Seamaster KX6082 occupies a unique niche in the vintage Omega collecting landscape, appealing to enthusiasts interested in American horological history and Norman Morris’s influence on Omega’s success.​

Collectibility Factors

Strengths:

• Legitimate Omega production with Swiss movement​​
• Unique reference number exclusive to US market​​
• Historical significance as Norman Morris creation​
• Practical complications (automatic winding, calendar)​
• Affordable entry point compared to Swiss-cased equivalents

Considerations:

• Lower collector demand compared to Swiss references
• Gold-filled cases less prestigious than solid precious metals
• Parts availability challenges for caliber 502​
• High incidence of refinished dials in surviving examples​​
• Limited documentation and catalog appearances

Market Positioning

As of late 2024, the KX6082 typically commands prices in the following ranges:

$800-1,200 USD: Examples with refinished dials, moderate wear, or missing original components​

$1,200-1,800 USD: Good condition pieces with likely original dials, proper movements, and moderate case wear​

$1,800-2,500 USD: Exceptional examples with confirmed original dials, strong case condition, minimal polishing, and complete presentation​

These values represent approximately 30-50% less than comparable Swiss-cased Seamaster Calendar references (like the 2849 series) in similar condition. This price differential reflects collector preferences for Swiss-cased examples and the perception that US-market watches are less desirable, though this attitude has softened in recent years as collectors appreciate Norman Morris’s contributions to Omega’s legacy.​

Configuration Preferences

Collectors prioritize:

1. Original dials: Unrestored dials with natural patina command significant premiums over refinished examples​
2. Arrowhead markers: More sought-after than simpler baton markers due to visual interest​

3. Case condition: Unpolished or lightly polished cases with sharp edges​
4. Correct movement: Verified caliber 502 with OXG marking​​
5. Complete presentation: Original Omega-signed crown and appropriate leather strap​

Silver/champagne dials are most commonly encountered, while black dials (if authentic) carry premiums due to scarcity and visual impact.​

Common Issues and Pitfalls

Dial refinishing: The single most common issue affecting KX6082 values. Many examples have been refinished at some point, often poorly. Budget extra for professional dial verification before purchase.​​

Movement mismatches: Ensure the movement is caliber 502 with 17 jewels. Substitution of 19 or 20-jewel movements (calibers 501 or 503) sometimes occurs.​

Wear-through: Gold-filled cases can show wear to base metal on edges, particularly lug tips and bezel edges. Inspect carefully under magnification.​

Service parts: Many KX6082 examples contain a mix of original and service replacement components. While functional, watches with more original parts command premiums.

Case back substitutions: Verify the case back reference matches the KX6082 designation and hasn’t been swapped from another reference.​

Investment Perspective

The KX6082 represents a value-oriented entry into vintage Seamaster ownership. While unlikely to appreciate dramatically, properly selected examples maintain stable values and offer genuine Omega quality at accessible price points. The watch serves best as a wearing piece rather than pure investment, providing authentic 1950s character and solid mechanical performance.

For collectors building comprehensive Seamaster collections or documenting Norman Morris’s influence, the KX6082 is an essential inclusion that tells the story of Omega’s adaptation to American market demands.​​

Documentation and Research

The KX6082 appears in the 1955 Norman Morris Omega catalog and related period promotional materials. Official Omega archives have limited information on US-specific references, making authentication more challenging than Swiss-cased models. Consult the Omega Museum or submit inquiries to Omega heritage services for movement verification via serial number.​​

Omega Seamaster Calendar Automatic Gold Capped Vintage  

Wearing and Maintenance

Setting the Watch

The caliber 502 lacks quickset date functionality, requiring manual date advancement via the crown:​

1. Hand-wind approximately 15-20 turns to initialize the movement if the watch has stopped​
2. Pull crown to first (time-setting) position
3. Rotate hands clockwise past midnight to advance date by one day
4. Continue rotating through 24-hour cycles until reaching correct date​
5. Set time and push crown to operating position

Never adjust date between 9 PM and 3 AM, as the date mechanism is engaged during this window and forced adjustment can damage the date wheel or finger.​

Automatic Winding

The bi-directional rotor winds the mainspring through normal wrist motion. Approximately 8 hours of daily wear maintains full wind. The 46-hour power reserve means the watch continues running through a full night and most of the following day if removed from the wrist.​

Water Resistance

Despite gaskets, the KX6082 offers minimal water resistance by modern standards. Avoid water exposure beyond hand washing. Never submerge or wear while swimming. The snap-back case and aging gaskets provide limited protection against moisture ingress.​

Service Intervals

Mechanical service every 5-7 years maintains optimal performance. Service should include:

• Movement disassembly, cleaning, and lubrication
• Gasket replacement
• Crown inspection/replacement if worn
• Accuracy regulation
• Crystal polishing or replacement if heavily scratched

Seek watchmakers experienced with vintage Omega movements, as the caliber 502 has specific servicing requirements and parts availability challenges.​

Case Care

Gold-filled case maintenance:

• Clean with soft cloth and mild soap solution
• Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaning
• Never polish aggressively; light polishing with rouge (by professionals only) if necessary​
• Monitor for wear-through on edges and high-contact areas​

The gold-filled construction is relatively durable but not immune to wear. Proper care extends case life significantly compared to gold plating.

Storage

Store in a watch box or soft pouch away from magnetic fields and extreme temperature variations. If not worn regularly, wind and run the watch every few weeks to maintain movement lubrication.

Conclusion

The Omega Seamaster Calendar reference KX6082 stands as a tangible reminder of Norman Morris’s profound influence on Omega’s American success story. While overshadowed by Swiss-cased siblings in collector consciousness, the KX6082 offers authentic Omega engineering, distinctive period design, and practical everyday wearability at accessible price points.

For collectors, the challenge and opportunity lie in identifying well-preserved examples with original dials and proper components, a task requiring patience and careful inspection given the high incidence of modifications in surviving pieces. Those willing to invest the research effort are rewarded with a genuinely interesting timepiece that bridges Swiss manufacturing excellence and American market adaptation, worn by countless American professionals during the Eisenhower era.

The KX6082 deserves recognition not as a compromise or budget alternative, but as a legitimate expression of Omega’s adaptability and the creative partnership that helped establish the brand’s commanding presence in the United States. Its relative affordability today makes it an excellent candidate for collectors seeking authentic 1950s wrist presence without the premium commanded by better-known references.