Omega’s manual-winding caliber 33.3 CHRO is an icon amongst collectors. It was launched in 1933, originally as a monopusher chronograph; however, by the late 1930s, the brand redesigned it and used the movement in some of their finest two pusher chronographs. In 1937, the caliber was fitted into Omega’s first water resistant chronograph watch – the reference CK 2077, a model that can be considered a turning point in the firm’s history.

Featuring an oversized, case with screw-down caseback, it must be viewed as an early, multi-purpose tool watch perfectly suited for those with increasingly active lifestyles. Due to the use of a waterproof case, the dial on the present example has luckily been extremely well-preserved, with the vibrant neon yellow printing of the scales rendered highly legible against the black and grey dial. None of the colors of the dial have faded. Additionally, the case has escaped the hardships of the intervening decades, with crisp, downturned lugs and clear signs of the original finish throughout.

Modern in its size and charming in its presentation, this CK 2077 is a testament to Omega’s innovation in the first half of the twentieth century, as well as the timelessness of their design language.