In 1999, Omega took a historic step: it introduced its Co-Axial Escapement – a technology that allows timepieces last longer and ensures more stable precision – to the De Ville collection, making it the first serially produced wristwatch to feature this component which the brand acquired in 1993 from watchmaking legend George Daniels, through its parent company, the Swatch Group.
Now, it has added two new Trésor models to the De Ville family: two timepieces in 40 mm stainless steel cases with domed gradient blue dials, polished hands and applied domed indexes in 18k white gold. One features a polished bezel, while the other has a bezel set with diamonds.
Besides their refined good looks, the models stand out for the charming teddy bear — in the same colour of light blue as the varnished seconds hand — that replaces the number 8 on the date indicator at the bottom of the dial. The mascot is representative of the plush toys given to children undergoing eye surgery and is a symbol of Omega’s 9-year partnership with Orbis International, a nonprofit dedicated to helping fight avoidable blindness. The organization operates sight-saving programs in 19 countries worldwide and is famed for its Flying Eye Hospital, a former cargo plane converted into a state-of-the-art teaching facility complete with operating room, classroom and recovery room.
Purchasing one of the new Trésor models raises money to assist Orbis in its global eye care mission. Each timepiece is equipped with Omega’s Calibre 8511, 18-karat red gold balance bridge and both come in blue leather straps with polished buckles. They also both carry a certificate of authenticity and a 5-year warranty, and are presented in a special box with a teddy bear key holder.
The polished bezel model retails for $6,500 while the diamond-set bezel version retails for $11,800. They can be purchased on Omega’s website here.
Source: Robb Report