Omega - Genève - No reserve price - 166 0168 - Men - 1973

Now available at auction from Second Vintage

This classic 1970s Omega Genève features a unique Japanese corporate history, distinguished by a presentation engraving from Matsushita Electric (Panasonic) dated 1976 on the stainless steel caseback. The watch pairs a remarkably clean silver sunburst dial with a heavily patinated gold-plated case, offering a striking visual contrast driven by the reliable automatic Omega Caliber 1012.

Brand: Omega
Model: Genève
Reference Number: 166 0168
Serial Number: 37856445
Movement: Automatic, Omega Caliber 1012
Dial: Silver sunburst with applied gold-tone indices
Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Gold-plated, stainless steel caseback
Production Year: 1973
Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: -7-10s/day, performing remarkably well.

Dial and Hands
The clean silver sunburst dial is exceptionally well-preserved. Applied gold-tone indices feature black inserts that remain fully intact, complementing the crisp and complete printed text. The lume plots show age-appropriate degradation, matching the vintage character of the piece. The gold-tone hands, also detailed with black inserts, exhibit moderate oxidation and aging on their metal surfaces, while their luminous material remains present but aged.

Case and Crystal
The 36 mm gold-plated case is heavily patinated, displaying significant tarnish and natural oxidation across its surfaces and the integrated smooth bezel. Scratches and handling marks are visible on the flanks and lugs, yet the case geometry remains relatively defined despite the wear. The stainless steel caseback bears the notable Matsushita Electric presentation engraving. The gold-tone knurled crown is signed with the Omega logo and shows moderate wear and oxidation consistent with the rest of the case. The domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, showing only light surface scratches and scuffs visible in reflections, with no major cracks or chips observed.

Movement
Inside beats the automatic mechanical Omega Caliber 1012. The movement is visually excellent, displaying bright and clean copper-colored finishing with no obvious signs of corrosion or heavy tool marks. The rotor and bridges appear well-preserved, and the caliber is clearly engraved with the matching 37856445 serial number along with the Omega markings. The timegrapher records a rate of -7-10s/day. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece.

Strap
The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching. It shows light wear and creasing, providing a comfortable fit and complementing the vintage aesthetic.

Condition
Good vintage condition. The watch presents a strong contrast between its exceptionally clean dial and its heavily oxidized, fair-condition case. The gold-plated surfaces and integrated bezel show significant tarnish and handling marks, while the case geometry remains intact. The hands exhibit moderate aging, and the signed crown shows consistent wear. The movement is visually well-preserved and, supported by the timegrapher results, is running with notable precision.

Dimensions
The case measures 36 mm in diameter, excluding the crown.

Remarks
This Omega Genève features a fascinating Matsushita Electric presentation engraving, adding distinct historical context to a classic 1970s design. The beautifully preserved silver sunburst dial provides a satisfying focal point against the uncleaned, naturally oxidized gold-plated case. Driven by the capable Caliber 1012, it represents a highly authentic and character-rich collector watch.

History
Introduced into the international collection in 1973, the Omega Genève reference 166.0168 represents the brand's dedication to producing reliable, elegant daily-wear watches during a transformative decade for horology. This reference is powered by the Omega Caliber 1012, an automatic movement featuring 23 jewels, a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, and a stated power reserve of 42 hours. The Genève line was widely produced and appreciated globally, frequently chosen by major corporations for presentation pieces to honor significant milestones.

Payment and Shipping
Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase.
Your watch will be professionally and securely packaged, then shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind.
We use fast express shipping, with typical delivery within 1–4 business days, depending on the destination.
Please note that vintage watches may show minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections, which are considered normal for watches of this age.
We kindly ask you to review all photos carefully before bidding. We photograph each watch from multiple angles to provide the most accurate representation possible, and the photos form an important part of the description.
The timegrapher assessment if provided is seen as an indication of the movement’s condition under fully wound testing conditions. As with all vintage watches, results may vary in daily use.
If you have any concerns regarding functionality or defects after delivery, please contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you.
As with all used watches, water resistance is not guaranteed.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends.

/ Second Vintage

SKU: OME-GXX-0041