We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
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Vintage OMEGA Seamaster 300 1968 Watch - A Retro Tale
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OMEGA Seamaster 300 41mm Ref 166.024 Big Triangle 1968 Watch
This vintage OMEGA Seamaster 300 exemplifies timeless elegance with its sophisticated 41mm stainless steel case, automatic movement, and distinctive black dial complemented by a new leather strap. In very good condition, this 1968 timepiece features a bidirectional original bezel and screw-down crown, maintaining its authentic vintage appeal while demonstrating OMEGA's legendary craftsmanship. Whether you're embarking on nautical adventures, attending important business meetings, or seeking a sophisticated daily timepiece, this beautifully preserved Seamaster 300 brings classic OMEGA excellence to any occasion whilst embodying its rich horological heritage.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the OMEGA Seamaster 300 Ref 166.024 “Big Triangle” (1968)? A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made dive watch with a 42mm stainless steel case, automatic movement, a highly legible black dial featuring the oversized triangular marker at 12 o’clock (“Big Triangle”), a bidirectional timing bezel, and a screw‑down crown. This example is fitted with a new leather strap and shows attractive vintage patina.
Q: Which movement does the 166.024 typically use? A: Most late‑1960s 166.024 models house the automatic OMEGA Calibre 565 with date. The visually similar no‑date version (Ref 165.024) usually uses Calibre 552. If you’d like us to confirm the exact calibre in this specific watch, please contact us.
Q: Is it water‑resistant, and can I swim or dive with it? A: The Seamaster 300 was originally rated to 300 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches is not guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the seals have been replaced and the watch has passed a pressure test. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any moisture exposure. Note that leather straps are not water‑friendly.
Q: How do I set the time and date on this watch? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise to release it. Position 1: wind the movement (20–40 turns if stopped). Position 2/quickset: on many Cal 565 examples, the date is advanced by repeatedly pulling the crown to the time‑setting position and pushing it back (the date will jump one day per pull). Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between approximately 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.
Q: What does “Big Triangle” mean, and why is it desirable? A: The “Big Triangle” refers to the oversized luminous triangle at 12 o’clock, designed for instant orientation underwater and in low light. It’s an iconic Seamaster 300 dial variant prized by collectors for its tool‑watch heritage and distinctive vintage aesthetic.
Q: How should I use the bidirectional bezel? A: Align the bezel’s triangle or minute marker with the minute hand to time events (for example, a 30‑minute interval). This bezel rotates both clockwise and anti‑clockwise. Because vintage bezels can be delicate, turn it gently; if it feels stiff, do not force it—have a watchmaker inspect it.
Q: What luminous material is on the dial and hands, and is it safe? A: Most late‑1960s Seamaster 300 dials and hands use tritium lume, which develops warm patina over time. Tritium is a low‑activity material; normal wear is considered safe. Avoid aggressive cleaning or moisture ingress, which can disturb aged lume.
Q: What strap/bracelet options fit, and what is the lug width? A: The 166.024 commonly uses 20mm lugs, accommodating a wide range of straps (leather, rubber, and NATO). This watch comes with a new leather strap; if you’d like a different style or to confirm the exact lug width on this piece, please contact us and we’ll advise compatible options.
Q: What accuracy and servicing should I expect from a vintage Seamaster 300? A: A well‑maintained vintage OMEGA should keep good time for its era, but performance varies with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is generally recommended, or sooner if you notice running fast/slow, moisture, or reduced power reserve. Keep the watch away from strong magnets and have gaskets checked periodically if light water resistance is desired.
Q: Are box and papers included, and how do you guarantee authenticity? A: Vintage watches may not include original box and papers unless stated in the listing’s Accessories section. A Retro Tale thoroughly inspects and authenticates every item and provides a 12‑month mechanical guarantee. We’re happy to share additional photos and confirm movement/reference details on request.
Q: How can I verify the production year and reference? A: Production year on OMEGA watches is typically determined by the movement’s serial number, and the reference is found on the inside case back (viewable by a watchmaker). Based on typical serial ranges, many 166.024 examples with late‑1960s serials date to around 1968. We can help verify these details and provide documentation on request.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to Denmark.
We offer secure shipping via Postnord, Budbee, Instabox, Bring and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Watches
/ Men's Watches
• Stainless steel case (42mm)
• Black 'Big Triangle' dial
• Automatic movement
• Bidirectional original bezel
• Screw-down crown
• New leather strap
• Vintage (1968)
