Description
The Dial
What truly sets this Omega CK700 apart is its all-original, untouched radium dial, a rarity in today’s market. Many surviving examples have been relumed or re-lacquered over the years, but this one remains in its factory state, with its bold Arabic numerals and aged radium lume intact. The black lacquered surface has aged beautifully, giving it that deep, rich patina that collectors seek in a pre-war pilot’s watch. The cathedral-style hands, also filled with original radium, add to the unmistakable aviation aesthetic. This was a tool watch in the purest sense—designed for maximum visibility in low-light conditions, allowing pilots to read the time at a glance.
The Case
At 41mm, the CK700 was a true outlier in the 1930s, an era when most wristwatches measured well below 35mm. Its stainless steel case was built for durability, featuring both a screw-on bezel and screw-down case back, ensuring the movement remained protected from dust and moisture. Unlike many pilot watches of the era that featured simpler snap-on case backs, the CK700 was engineered with an additional movement protection plate, reinforcing Omega’s commitment to precision and reliability. The large, extended onion crown allowed for easy winding and adjustment, even while wearing gloves—a crucial feature for aviators navigating the skies in freezing conditions.
The Movement
Inside this exceptional timepiece beats the Omega Caliber 35, a large and high-grade manually wound movement specifically designed for precision timing. This movement was known for its robust construction and excellent timekeeping, making it an ideal choice for professional pilots. Despite being nearly a century old, this example remains in perfect working order, a testament to both Omega’s craftsmanship and the careful preservation of this particular watch.
Finding an all-original CK700 is no easy task, as many have undergone restoration or suffered from cracked dials and relumed hands over the decades. This example, however, remains untouched, making it a true collector’s piece. For those who have been searching for the ultimate pre-war Omega pilot’s watch, this is the one to own.
What we love:
- Beautiful untouched original dial
- Excellent condition
- Extremely rare watch
What you should know:
- Unless otherwise stated, it is common for vintage watches to not come with box and papers. In the rare example that a watch does come with box and papers it will be mentioned in the description. All purchases come with a bespoke black wooden watch box and warranty card.
