Though the Omega Seamaster is largely known as a formidable tool watch meant for underwater adventure, such was not always the case. (So to speak.)

In fact, the original Seamaster from 1948 was a slim, 34mm dress watch — far removed from the hard-charging Seamaster 300 of the 1960s or today’s serious, Co-Axial-powered timepieces. 

These mid-century dress Seamasters have become the perfect entry into vintage watches for many a collector, and we happily stock them here at Analog/Shift whenever we find an example in good condition. Plentiful and available in myriad configurations, they’re emblematic of the best in 20th-century wristwatch design. Which, come to think of it, is probably why Omega saw fit to honor the original 1948 Seamaster in an updated, limited edition-timepiece in 2018 on occasion of the model’s 70th anniversary. 

Upgraded with modern proportions and a chronometer-certified movement, the Seamaster 1948 Co-Axial Master Chronometer 38MM takes the aesthetic of the post-War original and gives it all the appointments necessary for modern-day wear. Housed in a 38mm stainless steel case with a domed, sapphire crystal and a signed crown, it features a luminous white satin dial with applied dart indices and quadrant Arabic indices, a matching dauphine handset, and an inner, printed black minute track. Omega's Calibre 8806 Master Chronometer movement is visible via a sapphire exhibition caseback, with commemorative 70th anniversary graphics and numbered 410/1948. 

Fitted to a signed, brown leather strap with a signed, stainless steel pin buckle, the limited edition Seamaster 1948 makes for a gorgeous dress watch. But those in the know will understand that this modern-day treasure from Omega — which includes all its goodies — is more than a pretty face. Rather, it’s a fitting contemporary tribute to one of the most important wristwatches ever made by any brand.

Make it yours today!