Omega - Automatic - Ref.161.003 - Men - 1960-1969

OMEGA Automatic Ref.161.003 Cal.552 | EPSA Gold Filled Case | 7-Row Rice Bead Bracelet

【Detailed Video】
For more information, please watch the Catawiki dedicated video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AV4pmDcBv5E


Year of Manufacture / Movement
1960s / Ref.161.003 / 24 Jewels / Cal.552 / Automatic

[Features & Selling Pointsn]

"Invisible Luxury: A rare EPSA-made case with 40-micron gold filling."

We are proud to present the Ref.161.003, a masterpiece from the 1960s that symbolizes Omega’s golden era. While it appears as a minimalist silver dial timepiece at first glance, its internal specifications reveal a truly luxurious soul.

At its heart lies the Caliber 552, a legendary movement within the 500-series family. By omitting the date function, this caliber offers exceptional durability and ease of maintenance—representing the pinnacle of a "practical vintage" watch. The non-date execution also ensures a perfectly symmetrical dial, achieving a visual "golden ratio" that remains timeless.

The case was manufactured by the renowned EPSA (Ervin Piquerez S.A.), a specialist case maker that historically supplied elite manufactures such as Patek Philippe and Jaeger-LeCoultre. Unlike standard plating, this case features an extraordinary 20-micron gold filling, with the case back reaching a substantial 40-micron thickness. This level of craftsmanship is a testament to the uncompromising quality of the era.

The silver dial retains a soft, vintage luster. With a 34mm diameter and a slim 9.5mm profile, it slips elegantly under a shirt cuff. It comes paired with an aftermarket 7-row rice bead bracelet, a classic aesthetic that perfectly complements the vintage Omega silhouette. For those who seek substance over flash, this combination of an EPSA case and the Cal.552 movement offers a profound entry into the world of high-grade vintage horology.

[Condition]

Dial: Shows natural aging, including patina and spotting. The hands and indices exhibit signs of oxidation.

Case & Back: Visible scuffs, minor scratches, and small dings. There is some peeling of the gold layer and marks from previous case openings.

Crystal: Features the authentic "Ω" (Omega) watermark at the center. Contains some light surface scuffs.

Bracelet: Fitted with an aftermarket 7-row rice bead bracelet. Ready to wear. Note: The buckle clasp may feel stiff depending on the adjustment position.

Operation: Time setting is performed by pulling out the crown. There is no hacking (seconds-stop) function. Note: When adjusting the time forward, you may occasionally feel a slight increase in tension/resistance.

Accessories: Watch head and bracelet only (No box/papers).

[Accuracy & Dimensions]

Accuracy: Currently running within ±30 seconds per 24 hours (measured flat; please expect slight variations based on wearing position).

Dimensions:

Lug width: 18mm

Case diameter: Approx. 34mm (excluding crown)

Lug-to-lug: Approx. 42mm

Thickness: Approx. 9.5mm (including crystal)

Wrist size: Up to approx. 20cm
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【Shipping Information】

※ We ship via Japan Post (EMS or International Parcel).
※ We always ship with tracking numbers.
※Delivery addresses are limited to the address registered at the time of order.※Shipments are processed only Monday through Friday (excluding weekends).
※Due to legal regulations, we do not mark items as “Gifts” or declare lower values.
※We are sorry, but we do not deliver to some regions (countries). Orders to these regions will be cancelled after they are placed.

【About the Watches】

Please refer to the photos and description for details on condition.
Due to export restrictions under the Washington Convention, we are unable to ship belts made from reptile leather such as crocodile or lizard. Therefore, we will ship the item without the leather belt. Vintage watches may have undergone maintenance or customization.
No resizing or maintenance is performed prior to shipping.
Buyer is responsible for any aftercare or service needs.
Returns are accepted only in the event of a complete malfunction.

【Importer's Obligation】

Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office for details before purchasing. If a package is returned to us because the buyer refused to pay import duties or failed to receive the item, no refund will be issued.