A striking example of 1980s watchmaking, this Omega Seamaster reference 196.0218 is a beautifully preserved gold-gilded timepiece that captures the era’s refined aesthetic. The 14k gold-plated (20 microns) case measures 35 mm and presents a distinctive dial design: a brushed gold-toned center framed by a circular smooth steel ring, creating an elegant two-tone contrast with strong visual depth. Applied gold indices and a date window at 3 o’clock maintain clean legibility and classic symmetry. The crown bears the original Omega logo and remains correct for the model. The caseback is stainless steel and features the familiar engraved Seamaster seahorse emblem. Fitted with a genuine brown leather strap (not original) and the original Omega buckle, the watch retains an authentic overall look while offering modern wearability. Powered by an Omega caliber 1337 quartz movement with 17 jewels, the battery has just been replaced and the movement has been fully serviced — the watch is in excellent running condition.
The 1980s were a pivotal decade for wristwatches: quartz technology matured, and manufacturers balanced new electronic accuracy with traditional Swiss finishing and design. Omega’s Seamaster line—long associated with robust, reliable sports watches—expanded in the 1970s and ‘80s to include elegant, everyday models that married dress-watch refinement with Seamaster durability. Reference 196.0218 exemplifies this approach: a quartz-driven Seamaster that upholds Omega’s standards of quality and finishing while offering the convenience and precision of a battery-powered movement. The plated gold cases of the period provided a luxurious appearance at accessible price points, and many examples remain sought after by collectors who appreciate the combination of style, provenance, and wearable dimensions.
Brand: Omega
Model: Seamaster
Reference: 196.0218
Decade: 1980s
Case material: 14k gold-plated (20 microns) over base metal
Case diameter: 35 mm
Caseback: Stainless steel, engraved Seamaster seahorse
Dial: Gold-toned brushed center with smooth circular steel outer ring; gold applied indices
Hands: Gold-tone
Crystal: Mineral
Crown: Original, signed with Omega logo
Movement: Omega caliber 1337 quartz, 17 jewels
Service status: Battery recently replaced; movement fully checked and in excellent condition
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date at 3 o’clock
Bracelet/strap: Genuine brown leather strap (not original); original Omega buckle included
Condition: Very good, well-preserved vintage state (serviced)
Notes: Original crown and caseback; strap is replacement but paired with original clasp to maintain authenticity
Warranty: 24-month warranty
Includes official KCL documentation
A striking example of 1980s watchmaking, this Omega Seamaster reference 196.0218 is a beautifully preserved gold-gilded timepiece that captures the era’s refined aesthetic. The 14k gold-plated (20 microns) case measures 35 mm and presents a distinctive dial design: a brushed gold-toned center framed by a circular smooth steel ring, creating an elegant two-tone contrast with strong visual depth. Applied gold indices and a date window at 3 o’clock maintain clean legibility and classic symmetry. The crown bears the original Omega logo and remains correct for the model. The caseback is stainless steel and features the familiar engraved Seamaster seahorse emblem. Fitted with a genuine brown leather strap (not original) and the original Omega buckle, the watch retains an authentic overall look while offering modern wearability. Powered by an Omega caliber 1337 quartz movement with 17 jewels, the battery has just been replaced and the movement has been fully serviced — the watch is in excellent running condition.
The 1980s were a pivotal decade for wristwatches: quartz technology matured, and manufacturers balanced new electronic accuracy with traditional Swiss finishing and design. Omega’s Seamaster line—long associated with robust, reliable sports watches—expanded in the 1970s and ‘80s to include elegant, everyday models that married dress-watch refinement with Seamaster durability. Reference 196.0218 exemplifies this approach: a quartz-driven Seamaster that upholds Omega’s standards of quality and finishing while offering the convenience and precision of a battery-powered movement. The plated gold cases of the period provided a luxurious appearance at accessible price points, and many examples remain sought after by collectors who appreciate the combination of style, provenance, and wearable dimensions.
Brand: Omega
Model: Seamaster
Reference: 196.0218
Decade: 1980s
Case material: 14k gold-plated (20 microns) over base metal
Case diameter: 35 mm
Caseback: Stainless steel, engraved Seamaster seahorse
Dial: Gold-toned brushed center with smooth circular steel outer ring; gold applied indices
Hands: Gold-tone
Crystal: Mineral
Crown: Original, signed with Omega logo
Movement: Omega caliber 1337 quartz, 17 jewels
Service status: Battery recently replaced; movement fully checked and in excellent condition
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date at 3 o’clock
Bracelet/strap: Genuine brown leather strap (not original); original Omega buckle included
Condition: Very good, well-preserved vintage state (serviced)
Notes: Original crown and caseback; strap is replacement but paired with original clasp to maintain authenticity
Warranty: 24-month warranty
Includes official KCL documentation
