Omega

Produced in the 1940s, the Omega Reference CK 2077-1 stands as one of the most distinctive chronographs of its era, admired by collectors for its imposing presence and elegant design balance. Housed in a 38mm stainless steel case—considered oversized for its time—the watch combines utilitarian purpose with refined mid-century aesthetics, a hallmark of Omega’s chronograph production before the Speedmaster era.

The present example is particularly appealing for its two-tone dial, featuring a contrasting outer scale and red and black script. The bi-compax layout, with sunken subsidiary registers for continuous seconds and a 30-minute totalizer, represents the classic configuration for chronographs, especially those from the 1940s.

At its heart beats the Calibre 33.3 CHRO, one of Omega’s most celebrated hand-wound chronograph movements. Introduced in 1933 as a monopusher chronograph, the movement was later refined in the late 1930s for use in some of Omega’s most distinguished two-pusher chronographs. In 1937, it was housed within Omega’s first water-resistant chronograph—the Reference CK 2077—a model that marked a significant milestone in the company’s evolution. Combining rarity, size, and period charm, this CK 2077-1 represents a golden age of Omega design and remains a highly collectible example of the brand’s early technical and aesthetic mastery.

We are pleased to offer the present example from the grandson of the original owner who was distinguished chief engineer aboard the steamer William H. Wolf that operated as a bulk freighter on the Great Lakes from 1908 until 1966.