Omega Seamaster 2849

Last updated: June 16, 2025
A vintage Omega Seamaster 2849 Calendar wristwatch with a black dial, silver hour markers, date window at 3 o’clock, silver case, and brown leather strap against a plain background.

Brand: 

Model Line:

Production Period:

1956-1959

Caliber/s:

,

Case Width:

34.5mm

Case Height:

41.5mm

Lug Width:

18mm

Omega Seamaster 2849 Description

The Omega Seamaster reference 2849 is a vintage timepiece from the 1950s, typically dating from around 1956 to 1959. It is recognized for its classic Seamaster design, often featuring a 34mm case and powered by Omega’s Caliber 503 automatic movement, which includes a date complication. Some variations also utilized the Caliber 471 automatic movement, which appears to be a non-date version. The Seamaster 2849 series is appreciated for its robust “large lug” or “beefy” cases that provide a notable wrist presence despite the modest diameter, and for its versatile aesthetic that blends sporty and formal elements. These watches represent Omega’s commitment to quality and everyday wearability during a significant period in the Seamaster lineage.  

Specifications

Reference Number2849 (with suffixes like -1SC, -2SC, SC-2, S-1, OT)
Production Year(s)Circa 1956 – 1959
Movement Caliber(s)Omega Caliber 503 (Automatic, Date) <br> Omega Caliber 471 (Automatic, likely non-date)
Movement TypeAutomatic
Case Diameter34.5mm (excluding crown)
Case Material(s)Stainless Steel, Yellow Gold (18k), Gold-Capped, White Gold (OT 2849)
Case BackTypically snap-on; some descriptions mention “pressed back”
Dial ColorsSilver, White, Black (original and restored), Gold
HandsDauphine, Lance Alpha
Hour MarkersApplied baton, Arrow-end, Dart
CrystalAcrylic (Plexiglass), often Omega signed
Lug Width18mm
Water Resistance (Original)Designed with water resistance (Seamaster line); specific rating not consistently provided, but vintage pieces not guaranteed water-resistant today.
Key FeaturesDate function (with Cal. 503), Central seconds

Key Details & Variations

Variations

The Omega Seamaster 2849 series exhibits several variations:

  • Reference Suffixes: The base reference 2849 is often seen with suffixes like -1SC, -2, -2SC, SC-2, S-1, and OT, which likely denote minor case, dial, or material differences. The meaning of these specific Omega vintage suffix codes is not explicitly detailed in the provided material, but “SC” often related to “sweep center” seconds hand. “OT” typically signifies a solid gold case (Or Massif Total) in Omega’s vintage nomenclature.  
  • Case Materials:
    • Stainless Steel: A common option.  
    • Gold-Capped: Where a thick layer of gold is bonded to a base metal, often stainless steel.  
    • Solid Gold: Examples in 18k yellow gold are documented.  
    • White Gold: A reference OT 2849 is mentioned with a white gold case.  
  • Dial Colors and Finishes:
    • Silver/White: Common, sometimes with a sunburst or brushed finish.  
    • Black: Both original factory finish and restored black dials are noted, often with gilt (gold) text and markers.  
    • Gold: Some examples feature gold-colored dials.  
    • Patinated dials are also common, reflecting the age of these vintage pieces.  
  • Movements:
    • Caliber 503: An automatic movement with a date function, 20 jewels, and a power reserve of around 46 hours. This is the most frequently cited movement for the 2849 reference.  
    • Caliber 471: An automatic movement, also with 20 jewels, appears in some Ref. 2849-2 listings. These versions seem to be non-date models, focusing on central seconds.  

Correct Dial

  • Markings: Signed “Omega,” “Automatic,” and “Seamaster.” If equipped with Cal. 503, “Calendar” is typically added. “Swiss Made” is usually present at the 6 o’clock position.  
  • Indices: Applied hour markers are standard. Styles include faceted batons, “arrow-end” or “dart” indices, and sometimes explorer-style numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9.  
  • Hands: Dauphine hands are frequently seen, as are lance alpha hands, often matching the material of the hour markers (e.g., gilt hands with gilt markers).  
  • Date Window: For Cal. 503 versions, a date window is located at 3 o’clock, sometimes framed.  
  • Lume: Some dials originally had luminous material, while others, like a non-lume silver dial variant, were also produced.  

Correct Hands

  • Dauphine Hands: A common style for this reference, often with luminous inserts if the dial is lumed.  
  • Lance Alpha Hands: Also seen, particularly on versions with Cal. 471.  
  • The material of the hands (e.g., steel, gilt) typically matches the hour markers and case material accents.

Correct Case

  • Shape and Dimensions: Typically around 34mm to 34.5mm in diameter (excluding the crown). Lug-to-lug measurements are around 41.5mm to 42mm. Thickness is approximately 8mm to 12mm.  
  • Lugs: Known for their “large,” “chunky,” or “beefy” lugs which give the watch a more substantial presence on the wrist.  
  • Case Back: Usually a snap-on or “pressed” back. Some feature the Seamaster Hippocampus logo, particularly desirable examples show a large Seamonster Hippocampus embossing.  
  • Crown: Original Omega-signed crown.  
  • Lug Width: 18mm.  

Additional Details

  • Omega Caliber 503: This automatic movement was produced between 1955 and 1960. It features 20 jewels and a power reserve of approximately 46 hours. It includes a date complication.  
  • Omega Caliber 471: Also an automatic movement with 20 jewels, this caliber appears in some non-date versions of the 2849 (specifically noted with ref. 2849-2).  
  • Both movements are part of Omega’s early full-rotor automatic movement families, succeeding the “bumper” automatics.

The crystal was originally Plexiglass (acrylic). Original Omega crystals often had a tiny, almost invisible Omega logo etched in the center.  

The Omega Seamaster 2849 is considered a good entry point into vintage Omega collecting, offering classic 1950s Seamaster aesthetics and reliable automatic movements.  

  • Value: Prices can vary significantly based on case material, dial originality and condition, and overall preservation. Stainless steel models in good condition might be found in the $1,000 – $1,600 range, while solid gold versions, especially with rare original black dials, can command higher prices. Median auction values hover around $800-$1000, but dealer prices for well-maintained examples can be higher.  
  • Desirability Factors:
    • Original Dials: Untouched original dials, especially rare configurations like gloss black with gilt details, are highly prized.  
    • Case Condition: Unpolished cases that retain their original lines and sharp lugs are preferred.  
    • Movement Health: A well-serviced movement is crucial.  
    • Large Hippocampus Case Back: Examples with the large Seamonster Hippocampus logo on the case back are particularly desirable.  
  • Movement Verification: Ensure the movement is a genuine Omega Cal. 503 or Cal. 471, with correct markings and serial number (which can be used to date the movement).  
  • Case Markings: The inside of the case back should be signed “Omega Watch Co.,” “Swiss Made,” and bear the reference number 2849 along with any suffixes. Solid gold cases will have appropriate hallmarks.  
  • Dial and Hands: Check for correct Omega branding, script styles (“Seamaster,” “Calendar”), and consistency in aging between the dial lume (if present) and hand lume.  
  • Crown: Look for an original Omega-signed crown appropriate for the period.