Despite the variety of vintage watches, there are a few models that we seem to come back to. We had the unique pleasure of experiencing the Omega Chronostop back in the summer of 2021, and today we get to dive into the model again. What is wonderful about the Chronostop is that is has a rich history and a diverse model range during its production years, which began in 1966.

The model we have today is the reference 146.009 with an incredibly vibrant blue dial, but before we dive into the watch, let’s go over a brief history of the model. As mentioned, the Chronostop was released in 1966 and was originally part of the Seamaster line that Omega had. In 1967 though, it was moved to their Geneve line. It was marketed as a more affordable chronograph, and was an attempt to entice a younger crowd to purchase a chronograph from Omega.

Now, the watch obviously isn’t the typical chronograph. It does not have two chronograph pushers like chronographs such as the Speedmaster or El Primero. Instead, there is one chronograph pusher and a crown to set the time and date. This nonconventional design was made so that the watch would be used to time short intervals, of less than one minute. If you look at the dial of the watch, you will see no sub-dials to time longer periods. The chronograph hand is located in the center of the dial, so one has the markers around the outside of the dial as timing indicators.

The model we have today is the reference 146.009. This version was manufactured in 1969, based on the movement serial number. The watch has a 35mm stainless steel case and is in overall good condition, with signs of wear. The lugs are short, sharp, and in good condition with signs of wear. The cases of Chronostops are unique, with an cushion or oval shape being it’s stand out features.

The crown for the watch, which is signed with the Omega logo is located at 4 o’clock, and the lone-chronograph pusher can be found at 2 o’clock. The case sits quite comfortably on the wrist, at 35mm. With the lugs being short, the watch sits true to 35mm, although it appears a bit longer being that the case has an oval shape.

The watch has a great blue dial that is in wonderful condition, with applied hour markers and Omega logo. It also has an applied date window at 3 o’clock. If you know Life on the Wrist, you know blue dials are a standout feature and something that we love. The dial isn’t textured, but the blue dial has somewhat of a grey-tone to it. In comparison with the deep blue strap, it’s a nice bit of contrast and provides a bit of depth to something that could look quite plain.

Removing the caseback, one will find the caliber 920 manual wind movement, with a one-minute chronograph complication. There were two calibers that the Chronostop used, the caliber 865 which was launched in 1966 without the date complication, and the caliber 920 which featured a date and was introduced in 1968. The caliber 920 was produced until 1970 and a total of 61,000 units were made during this period. The caliber is a 12’’ lignes movement, with 40 hours of power reserve that operates as 21600 vibrations per hour (vph).

The copper-tone finishing on the majority of the movement is attractive and is very typical of Omega movements of this period. On the movement, one will find the serial number that dates the movement to 1969, a few stamps recognizing the movement as Omega-manufactured, as well as the caliber number which can be found below the balance wheel.

With the caseback off, one will also be able to see the Omega triangle stamp, with “Fab Swiss” and “Swiss Made” stamped below the Omega logo. One will also find the reference number stamped. Interestingly, this version of the caseback is stamped with 146.009 and 146.010 which can be seen on some Chronostop’s, but not all of them.

As we move towards June and July, one typically transition to watches that give them a more of a summer vibe. Most of the time this means trading leather straps for rubber ones, but on the occasion where one wants to wear a cool vintage watch with vibrant colours, this watch is such a perfect option. Maybe after spending time on the beach with those close to you, you decide to have a lovely dinner by the water and I can only imagine how great this watch would be for such an occasion. Sun, seafood, your drink of choice… and this watch. It’s comfortable, attractive, and a cool bit of history for Omega.

The history of Omega is steeped in chronograph tradition. Sometimes it is overlooked, but the Chronostop is an important part their history. They are special watches with so much variety and can provide a ton of joy for collectors who know what they are looking for.

Enjoy!