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 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 | About us
This rare vintage Omega Seamaster Apnea Jacques Mayol chronograph, crafted in Switzerland, celebrates the legendary freediver with its distinctive black dial and diving bezel. The 41.5mm stainless steel case shows authentic patina with light scratches, testament to its vintage character. Perfect for diving enthusiasts or collectors seeking an iconic timepiece that honours maritime heritage and precision timing.
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 Apnea Jacques Mayol 41.5mm? A: It’s a rare, Swiss‑made vintage Seamaster special edition honouring legendary freediver Jacques Mayol. The watch features a 41.5mm stainless‑steel case and bracelet, a black dial with the distinctive Apnea timer chronograph, and a unidirectional rotating bezel—ideal for timing intervals and a standout piece for collectors.
Q: What is the Apnea timer and how does it work? A: The Apnea function is designed to track breath‑hold intervals in seven consecutive one‑minute segments. On Apnea models, the dedicated dial display advances as the chronograph runs, offering quick visual feedback for interval timing. Start/stop the timer with the chronograph pusher and reset when finished; for exact operating steps on this specific piece, please consult an Omega‑trained watchmaker or the original manual.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and suitable for swimming or diving? A: As a vintage watch, water resistance cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. Treat it as splash‑resistant at best. If you plan to use it near water, have the gaskets replaced and the watch professionally pressure‑tested, and always ensure the crown is fully secured before any moisture exposure.
Q: Which movement does it use and what power reserve should I expect? A: This model uses an automatic Omega movement. Typical power reserves for similar Omega chronographs are around 40–50 hours, though the exact calibre and performance can vary by example. We’re happy to verify the movement and approximate reserve for this specific watch on request.
Q: How do I operate the chronograph safely? A: Generally, the upper pusher starts and stops the chronograph and the lower pusher resets it. Do not press the reset while the chronograph is running. Avoid activating the chronograph underwater unless the watch has been freshly serviced and pressure‑tested.
Q: How do I set the time on this watch? A: If equipped with a screw‑down crown, unscrew it anti‑clockwise to release. Position 1 can be used for manual winding if needed; position 2 sets the time. Push the crown back in and screw it down firmly when finished. This Apnea special edition typically does not feature a date display, simplifying the setting procedure.
Q: Will the bracelet fit my wrist, and can it be resized? A: The bracelet is listed at approximately 19.5cm and this watch is delivered with 3 extra links. We can size the bracelet prior to dispatch. Additional genuine links may be sourced subject to availability; share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise.
Q: What type of crystal and bezel does it have? A: Most Omega Seamaster Apnea references feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal. The watch has a unidirectional rotating bezel for timing. If you’d like us to confirm the crystal type and bezel specification on this exact piece, please contact us.
Q: How does the Apnea differ from a standard Seamaster chronograph? A: The Apnea replaces traditional multi‑register chronograph sub‑dials with a dedicated interval display tailored for breath‑hold timing, and it bears the Jacques Mayol special‑edition design cues. It’s rarer than mainstream Seamaster chronographs and sought after by enthusiasts of diving history.
Q: What servicing and accuracy should I expect, and how should I care for it? A: A routine service every 5–10 years is sensible, or sooner if you notice issues with accuracy or moisture resistance. Keep the watch away from strong magnets, chemicals and extreme heat, and wipe it with a soft microfibre cloth after wear. Light scratches and patina are normal for vintage steel watches and part of their character.
Q: Is it authentic, and what warranty and shipping do you offer? A: A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. All watches include a 12‑month mechanical guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers; contact us for any specific delivery or warranty questions.
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 is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 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.
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.
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 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
61%
off retail price
• Stainless steel case and bracelet
• 41.5 mm case diameter
• Black dial with Apnea timer chronograph
• Unidirectional rotating bezel
• Automatic movement
• Jacques Mayol special edition
• Vintage
