Omega Chronograph 145.018

The annals of Omega’s rich history are punctuated by iconic timepieces, yet some fascinating references remain slightly obscured by the long shadows cast by giants like the Speedmaster. Among these is the Omega reference 145.018, a chronograph produced during a dynamic period for the brand in the late 1960s.¹ Often encountered under the De Ville or Seamaster name, this model represents a compelling blend of sporty functionality and understated elegance, powered by a legendary movement and offered in a surprising array of variations.³ Its well-proportioned design, reliable mechanics, and intriguing history make it a subject worthy of detailed exploration for the discerning vintage watch enthusiast. Positioned aesthetically alongside contemporaries like the famed Rolex ref. 6238 “Pre-Daytona,” the 145.018 captures a specific moment in horological design, embodying classic chronograph proportions just before the bolder, more experimental forms of the 1970s emerged.³

Seamaster and De Ville Under One Reference

One of the most immediately striking and potentially confusing aspects of the reference 145.018 is its appearance under multiple Omega family names. Examples exist with dials signed “De Ville,” “Seamaster,” and occasionally even the combined “Seamaster De Ville”.¹ This unusual situation, where a single reference number encompasses watches seemingly belonging to different product lines, is rooted in Omega’s brand evolution during the 1960s.

The De Ville line was initially conceived within the broader Seamaster collection around 1960.¹³ It was intended to offer a more refined, elegant, and city-appropriate counterpoint to the increasingly tool-watch-oriented Seamaster divers.¹³ Recognizing the distinct appeal and growing success of these dressier models, Omega made the strategic decision to establish De Ville as an independent collection in 1967.¹⁴

The production timeframe for the reference 145.018, commencing primarily around 1968, places it directly in the immediate aftermath of this significant brand restructuring.² The appearance of both “Seamaster” and “De Ville” branding on watches sharing the 145.018 reference number strongly suggests a transitional phase. It’s plausible that Omega utilized existing reference number allocations or component stock during this period, or perhaps intentionally leveraged the established reputation of both names as the De Ville collection found its independent footing. Further examination reveals that dials signed solely “Seamaster” under the 145.018 reference are considered notably rarer than those signed “De Ville”.¹ Given that the De Ville line was established to represent Omega’s more elegant offerings, and the 145.018 possesses a refined aesthetic distinct from typical robust Seamaster chronographs, it follows that Omega likely prioritized associating this design with the newly independent De Ville name. This would explain the relative scarcity of the Seamaster-branded variants, marking them as potentially earlier or less common iterations sought after by collectors today.

Historical Context and Significance: Omega’s Elegant Late-60s Chronograph

Pinpointing the exact production window for the 145.018 requires careful synthesis of available data. While some marketplace listings mention dates as early as 1962, these appear anomalous and likely represent errors or pertain to unrelated components.⁵ The overwhelming evidence, supported by movement serial numbers and multiple specialist sources, points to a core production period concentrated between 1968 and 1970.¹ Movement numbers confirm production years 1968 ¹, 1969 ²¹, and 1970.⁹ Mentions of “circa 1972” likely refer to final assembly, delivery, or retail sale dates rather than continued manufacturing.⁶

During its brief production, the 145.018 occupied a distinct position within Omega’s catalogue. It served as a sophisticated chronograph offering, arguably bridging the gap between the rugged Seamaster tool watches and the premium, often chronometer-certified Constellation line.¹³ It provided customers with access to Omega’s premier chronograph movement, the Caliber 861, housed in a design that was more elegant and less overtly utilitarian than the Speedmaster, which adopted the same movement concurrently.¹³ Gold-plated versions, in particular, offered the visual appeal of a precious metal watch at a potentially more accessible price point than solid gold Constellations or even the steel Speedmaster.¹³

The design itself is frequently lauded for its balanced proportions and aesthetic appeal, often drawing comparisons to the classic Rolex reference 6238 “Pre-Daytona”.³ This comparison firmly places the 145.018 within the lineage of elegant, sporty chronographs that defined the late 1960s aesthetic, characterized by round cases, pump pushers, and clean dial layouts, before the more angular and oversized designs of the 1970s became prevalent. Its direct mechanical link to the Speedmaster Professional via the Caliber 861 further enhances its horological significance.¹

The relatively short production span of only two to three years is a critical factor contributing to the 145.018’s significance and collectibility today.³ This limited availability, combined with its attractive design and high-quality movement, fuels collector interest and contributes to its relative rarity in the vintage market, especially for well-preserved examples or uncommon variations.³

Caliber 861

Powering the Omega 145.018 is the esteemed Caliber 861 manual-winding chronograph movement.¹ While a single source mentions a Caliber 871 variant for a rare “South American Market” model ⁵, the Caliber 861 is overwhelmingly documented as the standard engine for this reference.

Introduced by Omega in 1968, the Caliber 861 marked a significant evolution from its predecessor, the column-wheel operated Caliber 321.⁴ The 861, based on the Lemania 1873 ebauche, utilized a more robust and arguably easier-to-service cam-and-lever system for actuating the chronograph functions.¹ This copper-finished movement ²¹ typically features 17 or 18 jewels ¹, operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) ³, and offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.³ Its three-register layout displays running seconds at 9 o’clock, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, and a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock.¹

The Caliber 861 is, of course, most famous for its decades-long service in the Omega Speedmaster Professional, beginning with the reference 145.022 in 1968 and powering the “Moonwatch” through various iterations until the late 1990s.¹ Its inclusion in the 145.018 lends the watch considerable horological credibility and connects it directly to one of the most storied chronographs in history. The movement earned a reputation for exceptional reliability and durability, suitable for both professional use and daily wear.²

Omega’s decision to deploy the newly introduced Caliber 861 simultaneously in both the utilitarian Speedmaster and the more elegant 145.018 highlights the movement’s versatility and the brand’s confidence in its performance. This strategy allowed Omega to leverage shared development and manufacturing efficiencies while offering a technically advanced and reliable chronograph movement across different market segments and aesthetic styles. It provided consumers with the ‘engine’ of the flagship Speedmaster within a watch tailored for a different context.

Materials, Dimensions, and Design Features

The Omega 145.018 presents a consistent case profile across its variations, embodying the classic proportions of its era.

Materials: The most common case material is stainless steel.¹ However, numerous examples feature gold plating, often referred to as “gold shell” or “gold capped,” typically in yellow gold over a stainless steel base.³ Some sources specify 14k gold shell ⁹ or simply “gold capped”.¹⁹ Listings mentioning “Gold/Steel” or “Yellow Gold” generally refer to these plated or capped versions, often combined with a steel case back or a two-tone bracelet.⁵ Based on the available descriptions focusing on plating and shells, solid gold cases for the reference 145.018 appear undocumented and unlikely.

Dimensions: The case diameter is typically reported as 35mm ¹ or occasionally 36mm.¹⁶ This minor 1mm difference is common in vintage watch documentation and likely stems from variations in measurement points (e.g., including or excluding bezel overhang). The lug-to-lug distance is consistently cited as 40mm ¹, contributing to the watch wearing slightly larger than its diameter might suggest.³ Case thickness varies slightly in reports, ranging from approximately 12mm to 13.5mm.³

Features: The watch is topped with an acrylic (Plexiglass) crystal, which often bears a small, discreet Omega logo etched in the center.¹ The case back is a screw-down type, enhancing water resistance (though these vintage pieces are not considered water-resistant by modern standards).¹ It is typically made of stainless steel, even on gold-plated models.⁹ Some examples reportedly lack the traditional Seamaster Hippocampus engraving ¹, while others feature “Waterproof” text.¹³ The crown is signed with the Omega logo and is sometimes described as slightly oversized.¹ An interesting detail noted by observers is that the crown often features the ‘newer’ Omega logo introduced around that time, while the dial and/or crystal might retain the ‘older’ style logo.³ This inconsistency strongly reinforces the idea that the 145.018 was produced during Omega’s logo transition period (circa 1968-1969), with different components reflecting varying stages of the brand identity update. The watch features classic round chronograph pushers ¹⁶ and typically a smooth, fixed bezel.⁹

A Canvas of Variations: Dials, Hands, and Markings

The Omega 145.018 truly reveals its complexity through the remarkable diversity of its dial configurations. Far from being a monolithic design, this reference served as a canvas for numerous aesthetic interpretations during its short production life.

Dial Colors: A wide palette was employed. Silver or silvery-grey dials are frequently encountered, often with a subtle two-tone or satin finish, and sometimes described as sunburst.¹ Grey or dark grey options exist, noted for sometimes shifting in hue towards blue or lighter grey depending on the light.³ Blue dials were also produced, considered an uncommon and striking choice for the era, although potentially prone to paint flaking over time.³ White, Champagne, Gold, and even Black dials are documented, adding further variety.³ Naturally, many vintage examples exhibit patina, sometimes developing into a desirable “tropical” brown or tobacco hue.¹

Markers, Text, and Features: Hour markers are typically applied batons or sticks, in silver or gold tones matching the case and hands.¹ These often feature luminous pips or dots at their outer tips, although some non-lume versions used black paint inlays instead.¹ On certain dial colors (like blue and grey, but not white), the hour markers were painted rather than applied.¹⁴ The Omega logo is usually applied, sometimes in the older style.³ Branding text varies as discussed (“De Ville,” “Seamaster,” “Seamaster De Ville”). A tachymeter scale printed on the dial’s outer track is present on many examples but notably absent on others, with the latter configuration offering a cleaner, perhaps dressier appearance.¹ The three sub-dials are often finished in a contrasting color (typically white on darker dials, creating “panda” or “reverse panda” layouts) and may feature fine concentric circular patterns (snailing) or ridges.³

Colorful Sub-dial Fonts: A particularly rare and sought-after variation features a dark grey dial with white sub-dials, distinguished by the use of multi-colored printing for the numerals and indices within the sub-registers: typically green, red, and black.³ Anecdotal accounts suggest this playful color scheme might have been a subtle nod to the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico, where Omega served as the official timekeeper.⁴ Regardless of the inspiration, this unique aesthetic makes this variant the most coveted and scarcest iteration of the 145.018.⁴

Hands: The hour and minute hands are generally simple stick or baton shapes, matching the hour markers and case material.¹ They typically feature a central channel filled with luminous material or, on non-lume versions, black paint.¹ The chronograph seconds hand and sub-dial hands are usually simple, thin pointers.

This sheer breadth of documented variations under a single reference number produced over just a few years suggests a period of active design experimentation by Omega. Whether driven by efforts to cater to diverse regional tastes, rapidly evolving market trends, or simply the availability of different components from suppliers like Singer ³, the result is a reference that offers remarkable diversity for collectors.

Completing the Look: Original Bracelets and Straps

The Omega 145.018 was offered with both metal bracelets and leather straps, adding another layer of variation for collectors seeking period-correct examples.

Metal Bracelets: Several specific Omega bracelet references are associated with the 145.018:

• Reference 1069 with 524 end links: This stainless steel bracelet is frequently mentioned in detailed reviews and appears to be one of the most common original fitments.³ It’s described as comfortable and visually distinct, featuring ornate segmented center links.³ Sources link it to both 19mm ³ and 18mm ⁴² lug widths, reflecting the ambiguity surrounding the case dimensions.
• Reference 1037 with 555 end links: This stainless steel option is described as an “original rice link deployment bracelet” ¹⁶ and associated with a 19mm lug width.
• Oyster-style bracelet with 455B end links: A stainless steel bracelet resembling the classic Oyster design, fitted with 455B end links, is also documented ¹, associated with an 18mm lug width.
• Gold/Steel Bracelets: General mentions of “Gold/Steel” bracelets exist, likely referring to two-tone versions (steel with gold-plated or capped elements) designed to complement the gold-plated watch cases.⁵ It’s probable that popular references like the 1069 were also available in this two-tone finish.

Leather Straps: Leather was a very common alternative, likely offered as standard on many models or chosen as a replacement over the years.¹ Materials mentioned include calfskin, lizard skin, and alligator print.⁵ These straps were typically paired with an Omega-signed pin buckle, available in steel or gold-plated finishes to match the case.¹²

The existence of multiple documented bracelet references and end link combinations, potentially correlating with the 19mm lug width variations, presents a challenge for collectors aiming for strict originality. The reference 1069 bracelet, however, appears most consistently highlighted in enthusiast discussions as a characteristic pairing for the 145.018.

Collectibility and Market Perspective

The Omega 145.018 occupies an intriguing position in the vintage watch market. Its collectibility is driven by a confluence of factors, including its appealing aesthetics, connection to the legendary Caliber 861, and relative scarcity.

Rarity and Value Drivers: Due to its short production run (roughly 1968-1970), the 145.018 is generally considered uncommon, and finding examples in excellent, original condition can be challenging.³ As with most vintage timepieces, condition is paramount. Unpolished cases, pristine original dials with intact luminous material (or original paint), and the presence of original signed components (crown, crystal, buckle, bracelet) significantly enhance value.¹ While even, attractive patina can be desirable ¹, damage such as dial scratches, spots, or flaking paint detracts.¹⁴

Variation plays a crucial role in value. The specific dial configuration significantly impacts desirability and price. As discussed, the dark grey dial with colorful sub-dial fonts is considered the rarest and most sought-after variant, likely commanding a substantial premium.³ Dials bearing the “Seamaster” name are also rarer than the more common “De Ville” versions and are valued accordingly.¹ Other factors like dial color and the presence or absence of a tachymeter scale also influence collector preference and market value.³ While stainless steel cases might be preferred by some purists, well-preserved gold-plated examples remain desirable and hold good value.¹³ The inclusion of the original box and papers is exceptionally rare for this reference and adds considerable value.⁹

Market Pricing: Reflecting these variables, market prices for the Omega 145.018 exhibit a wide range. General estimates place typical values between $2,000 and $5,000.³ Specific examples listed by dealers or specialists range from approximately $2,800 to over $5,700 (£4,500), with many clustering in the $3,000 to $4,500 bracket depending on condition and features.⁶ Prices for the rarest variations, particularly the colorful sub-dial model in top condition, can potentially exceed this range.⁴ Auction results tend to show lower median values (around $1,000-$1,100) compared to dealer prices (median around $4,800-$5,200), a common pattern reflecting differences in condition, guarantees, and market channels.¹⁹ Major auction houses like Christie’s and Phillips regularly feature vintage Omegas, but specific results for the 145.018 were not detailed in the provided materials, although numerous other Omega references from the 1960s achieve strong prices.⁴⁵

The 145.018 offers a compelling proposition for vintage Omega enthusiasts. It provides access to the renowned Caliber 861 movement and classic late-60s chronograph aesthetics, often at a more accessible price point than a comparable Speedmaster from the same era.¹³ However, its complex variations in branding, dials, and potentially even lug width require careful study by prospective buyers. Its value is highly sensitive to condition, originality, and the presence of specific rare features.

The Omega reference 145.018 stands as a fascinating and rewarding chronograph from a pivotal era in the brand’s history. Produced for only a brief window between 1968 and 1970, it encapsulates the elegant yet sporty design language of the late 1960s, powered by the robust and historically significant Caliber 861 – the same movement beating within the heart of the Speedmaster Moonwatch.

Its identity is intriguingly complex, marked by the transitional use of both the established Seamaster and the newly independent De Ville names on its dial. This, combined with an impressive variety of dial colors, the option of a tachymeter scale, and the existence of rare and highly sought-after versions like the colorful sub-dial variant, makes the 145.018 a rich field of study for collectors. While its classic 6mm case size and sometimes ambiguous lug width might require adaptation for modern tastes or strap hunting, its balanced proportions and connection to Omega’s chronograph legacy ensure its enduring appeal.

More than just a footnote to the Speedmaster story, the Omega 145.018 is a distinct and charismatic timepiece in its own right. It represents Omega’s mastery in blending performance with elegance and offers a tangible connection to a dynamic period of horological design and brand evolution. For the enthusiast willing to delve into its nuances, the 145.018 provides a compelling and sophisticated vintage chronograph experience.