Don't miss the next drop
In the early 1960s, Omega was simply firing on all cylinders. The brand was a global powerhouse, synonymous with precision, elegance, and a kind of effortless, jet-set cool. While the Speedmaster was preparing for its journey to the stars, Omega’s dress watch collections were reaching new heights of sophistication. This stunning piece from 1962 is a perfect embodiment of that era’s refined aesthetic, combining a classic design with a touch of exuberant texture that is pure, distilled elegance.
Omega’s strength has always been its mastery of in-house movement production, and the caliber families of the mid-century are legendary among collectors. This watch is powered by the Omega Caliber 510, a beautiful and robust manual-winding movement from a family of calibers renowned for their reliability and slim profile. This allowed Omega’s designers to create watches that were not only mechanically superb but also wonderfully svelte and comfortable on the wrist. The reference H6290 is a classic example of the brand’s American-market offerings, often featuring cases and bracelets produced in the U.S. to Omega’s exacting standards.
This particular example is a true feast for the senses. Its 33mm, 14k gold-filled case is distinguished by a beautifully executed Florentine finish on the bezel, a delicate, cross-hatched texture that catches the light in a subtle and sophisticated way. This exquisite texture is carried over to the original, integrated mesh bracelet, creating a wonderfully cohesive and jewel-like appearance. The dial is where the watch’s story truly comes to life. The original silvered surface has aged into a gorgeous “stardust” patina, with a fine, even speckling across the dial that is both beautiful and impossible to replicate. It features clean, applied baton hour markers, simple stick hands, and a unique crosshair subsidiary seconds register at 6 o’clock, a minimalist detail that adds a touch of technical flair.
This watch is a beautiful survivor, a testament to a life well-lived but clearly cherished. The 14k gold-filled case and bracelet show honest wear, particularly on the clasp, but the intricate Florentine finishing remains crisp and attractive. The “stardust” dial is the star of the show, a piece of organic art created by the passage of 60 years. The Omega-signed movement is clean and is running beautifully, a testament to the quality of its construction.
