Omega

• cal. 471 automatic movement, 19 jewels • cream-colored lacquered dial, applied gilt arrow-head indexes, gilt dauphine hands, Olympic Cross of Merit to bottom • factory-engraved snap back enhanced with raised Olympic Cross of Merit to the center • case, dial and movement signed • Certificate dated 21 Nov 2005 confirming sale on 14 April 1956

The movement is running, however it might need service soon. The dial is generally in nice condition, however there are some marks near 4 and 5 o'clock visible under a loupe. The case shows signs of wear, however it is generally in good condition. The inside of the back is numbered 11423839 and 2850SC. The movement is numbered 14513139. The strap of this wristwatch is made from an endangered species; please refer to Important Notices for further information.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

The present model, Seamaster XVI, was produced by Omega for a limited period of time to celebrate the Summer Games of the 16th Olympiad in Melbourne, Australia. It is particularly unusual to find an example of this model with a lacquered dial rather than the more common gilt dial. Omega made approximately 100 examples in this special lacquered series.

The Seamaster XVI was created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Omega being the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games. Beginning in the 1932 Los Angeles games, Omega watches were, and still remain, a constant at finish lines during the sporting fortnight.

The emblem seen on the dial and back of this model is the Olympic Cross of Merit, which Omega received in 1952 for their outstanding technical support of the Games.

The Games of the XVI Olympiad were the first to take place in the Southern Hemisphere, which meant they were held in late November and early December - autumn for countries in the Northern Hemisphere.

The host-country Australians showcased their excellence in international competition, including swimmer Murray Rose's three gold medals and runner Betty Cuthbert's three gold medals.

For more information on this model and several illustrations, see Richon, M., Omega: A Journey Through Time, pp.282-283.