SOLD - Vintage WWII Era 1940's XL Military Style Omega Ref. 2421/1 French Market Watch Rare Bumper Cal. 351
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This Omega XL (35mm case or 37.5mm including the crown) in not just rare due to the size, but also due to a very rare copper dial which does show patina and age spots. The dial, overall, looks nicer in person; however, for the true vintage collector, a dial showing its age but still fully legible is a very good thing. The dial is all original and features a central sweep seconds hand, a seconds chapter ring and painted lume indices. The original crown is fully functional but quite worn as noted by its brass color (all the chrome is worn off). The rest of the case is full stainless steel showing a below average amount of wear with a snap on case back. The Omega caliber 351 is considered an extreme rarity because it was complex and expensive to make at the time and very few Omega watchmakers were trained on it. In this watch, the movement is clean from a technical standpoint; however, does show cosmetic age spots - no rust. The caliber 351 was also implemented in the first automatic Seamasters, which are also considered very rare due to the limited productions numbers of the 351 bumper. Another interesting fact about this 17 jewel movement that beats at a rate of 19800; notice, on the rotor (or bumper mechanism, the "LP" notation. After hours of research, I have not been able to verify the significance of the "LP"; however, under close inspection, the "LP" is factory original and was not done after the production of the watch. I love a good hunt for information, but when I cannot find it, I'll be looking now forever! lol. Anyhow, I will update the listing if/when I find out - this may include a change in price since it's not being considered now. But what I can tell you, regardless of the meaning, it makes the watch that much more rare. The watch is triple signed, dial, movement and case (originally 4x signed; however, it's worn off the crown). All the correct hallmarks are present, including those indicating that this was a French market watch. The watch also had Patent Brevet Markings on the inside case back. The watch has no strap attached; however, you may choose one when you add the watch to the shopping cart if you wish. Serviced, and ready to wear or collect. Thank you.
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