OMEGA | REF 2998-2 SPEEDMASTERA STAINLESS STEEL CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH REGISTERS AND TROPICAL DIAL CIRCA 1960

Dial: tropical Caliber: cal. 321 manual winding movement, 17 jewelsMovement number: 17302580Case: stainless steel, dust cover, screw down case backSize: diameter 40 mm Signed: case, dial and movement 

CASE Case in overall good condition with wear, scuffing and aging consistent with age and use. Some very light signs of possible polish to the lugs. Lugs with scuffing and small nicks. Bezel aged to a predominently grey color. Scratches and some areas of losses to the bezel, especially to "Base 100", and between 100 - 110. Inside case back stamped 2998-2. Outside case back with Speedmaster logo. There is wear, scuffing and rubbing ,but the logo is still visible. A deeper scratch to the case back near the outer perimeter likely from opening and closing. Light scratches to backs of lugs. DIAL Dial is aged to an overall even chocolate brown. Surface spots throughout, some raised especially toward the center of the dial between 12-2. Luminescent areas no longer activate under UV light. Some faint signs of pitting to the upper right side of the dial. Seconds and 12-hour hand with some scratches and patina. 30 minute register hand with some heavier patina. Light wear to the hands. Deepening color to the lume areas overall. Some dust and debris. MOVEMENT Chronograph function operating. The movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
"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."

The 2998-2 is the second in the series of renditions of the reference 2998. Produced from 1959 to 1962, the 2998 bears straight lugs, applied Omega logo to the dial, and the celebrated caliber 321 movement. The Re. 2998 comes from a distinguished line of Speedmasters, starting with the original Ref. 2915. Omega featured the tachometer scale on the bezel, as opposed to the dial, for the first time on its tool watches, with the original Speedmaster, the Ref. 2915. This innovative feature went on to define generations of Speedmasters, as seen here on the Ref. 2998-2. The present lot contains a well preserved and ‘tropical’ dial with long luminous hour markers with matching luminous hands, as well as correct Alpha style hands for the subsidiary dials. The natural patina, which occurs with age, enhances the aesthetics of this piece, making it an excellent addition for collectors looking for attractive vintage pieces.