OMEGA | SEAMASTER PLANET OCEAN XL, 22 SPECIAL AIR SERVICE, REFERENCE 22005200 MILITARY STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH DATE, HELIUM ESCAPE VALVE AND BRACELET, CIRCA 2011

In addition to the SAS Rolex Explorer II ref. 216570, Sotheby’s is delighted to include in this sale an equally elusive Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean reference 22005200, delivered to an SAS member in 2011.

The British Special Air Service (SAS) was founded in 1941 as a Special Operations division of the British Army and has ever since remained one of the most respected military organizations in the World. In spite of its absolute secrecy, the unit is rumoured to employ 500 active soldiers who undergo extreme recruitment and training programs. Considered as the pinnacle of a military career, the SAS motto “Who Dares Wins” perfectly describes the conquering spirit pioneered by its recruits.

The present watch is part of the confidential run sold to both enlisted and former members of the Special Air Service’s 22nd Regiment. The strong 45.5mm stainless steel case is designed to withstand the most hostile environment whether in the air or below the sea thanks to its helium escape valve and antimagnetic properties. Its profile bears the motivational “Always A Little Further”, quoting ‘The Golden Journey to Samarkand’, a poem written by James Elroy Flecker, which the 22nd regiment members are pressed to partially learn and retain during the selection process. This inspiring piece of literature is inscribed on the Clock Tower in Hereford and is of great emotional importance to the regiment. The back of the timepiece bears the Winged Dagger, emblem of the SAS, juxtaposed by the resonating motto “Who Dares Wins”. However, the most singular element to the back remains the personal military number, identifying the actual owner and SAS 22nd Regiment member. This serial number is referred to as the “Zap”. It is described as every recruit’s new identity, as these reference codes are used in all communications, allowing the soldiers to remain anonymous to the outside world. 

This SAS Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean XL remains in exceptional and unworn condition, still bearing some of its original protective stickers. Furthermore, the watch is sold on behalf of its original owner, translating into collector vocabulary as the most direct and fascinating provenance one could wish for.