Omega Chronostop 145.009

The Omega Chronostop Reference 145.009 is a distinctive manual-winding chronograph produced from 1966 to circa 1970. It stands out for its unique single-pusher chronograph function, designed for timing short intervals (under 60 seconds) with a start/stop-while-pressed/flyback-reset mechanism, operated by the pusher at 2 o’clock. Housed in a characteristic late-1960s tonneau/oval stainless steel case measuring approximately 35mm in diameter , it features the reliable Omega Caliber 865 movement (a simplified, no-date derivative of the Speedmaster’s Cal. 861). Initially intended for the Seamaster line, it was quickly moved to the Genève collection in 1967 to target a younger demographic and offer a more accessible price point. Often marketed as a “driver’s watch” , its design, featuring dials in colors like grey or burgundy with a vibrant orange chronograph hand , won awards for aesthetics and was used as an official timer for the 1968 Olympics. Its significance lies in its unique functionality, distinctive 1960s design, connection to the respected Cal. 861 lineage, and its role as an innovative, accessible chronograph within Omega’s historical lineup.  

Specifications

Variations and Key Features

The Omega Chronostop Ref. 145.009, while centered around a core design, presented variations primarily in its dial aesthetics, all housed within its characteristic case and powered by the unique Cal. 865 movement.

Case:

• Material: Stainless steel.  
• Shape: Distinctive late-1960s shape, often described as tonneau, barrel, or oval, featuring faceted lugs.  
• Dimensions: Compact size at ~34.5-35mm diameter, ~11.5-12mm thickness, and 38.5mm lug-to-lug.  
• Finishing: Typically a brushed top surface with polished, sharp facets on the lugs.  
• Pusher/Crown: Unique configuration with a single chronograph pusher at 2 o’clock and the winding crown positioned at 4 o’clock. Crown is typically signed with the Omega logo.  
• Case Back: Likely a press-in or snap-on type, often signed and sometimes bearing dual reference numbers (145.009 / 145.010), though 145.009 corresponds to the Cal. 865.  

Dial:

• Colors: Confirmed variations include matt Grey (slate/charcoal) and Burgundy. Other colors like Black, Blue, and White were generally available in the Chronostop line.  
• Markers: Applied, faceted metal hour markers (often wedge-shaped) were standard.  
• Lume: Tritium luminous dots typically accompanied the hour markers.  
• Track: A distinctive outer minute/seconds track, often in a contrasting color or “racing” style, enhanced legibility and sporty appeal.  
• Branding: Dials feature an applied Omega logo and are signed “Omega Chronostop” and “Genève”.  

Hands:

• Hour/Minute: Typically baton-style hands (white or black) with luminous inserts.  
• Chronograph Seconds: A standout feature is the vibrant orange center chronograph/seconds hand, providing high contrast.  

Crystal:

• Material: Acrylic (Plexiglass), often signed with a small Omega logo in the center. Easily polished to remove minor scratches.  

Movement (Caliber 865):

• Type: Manual-winding, 17-jewel movement based on the Lemania Cal. 861 (Speedmaster movement).  
• Function: Operates the unique single-pusher chronograph. Press once to start the orange seconds hand, press and hold to stop and read the time (up to 60 seconds), release to instantly reset (flyback) the hand to zero.  
• Specifications: Beats at 21,600 vph (3 Hz), approx. 40-hour power reserve, Incabloc shock protection.  
• Exclusivity: Cal. 865 (no-date) was used exclusively in Chronostop models like the 145.009. The date version (Cal. 920) was used in Ref. 146.009/146.010.  

Bracelet/Strap:

• Options: Originally offered on leather straps or optional stainless steel mesh bracelets (like Omega No. 12).  
• Lug Width: Standard 18mm.  

Additional Information

Chronostop Functionality: The single-pusher system was designed for timing short intervals quickly and easily, particularly suited for drivers timing brief events like lap segments under a minute. Its simplicity and unique operation (start/stop-while-held/reset) differentiate it from standard chronographs.  

Historical Context & Lineage: Launched in 1966, the Chronostop was initially part of the Seamaster line but moved to the Genève collection in 1967. This repositioned it as a more accessible chronograph aimed at younger buyers and specific activities like driving. Despite this, its design won awards, and it served as an official timer for the 1968 Olympics and Pan-American Games, highlighting its quality and reliability.  

Collectibility: The Chronostop 145.009 is appreciated by collectors for its distinctive late-1960s design, the reliable Cal. 865 movement (related to the Speedmaster’s Cal. 861), its unique single-pusher function, and its relative affordability compared to vintage Speedmasters. Originality, particularly of the dial, hands (especially the orange chrono hand), and case finish, is crucial for value. While not exceedingly rare, finding examples in excellent, unmolested condition requires diligence.