First Month Impressions: Seamaster 1948 Small Seconds 70th Anniversary

[TigerDore]

In early July, I finally received my Seamaster 1948, Small Seconds master Chronometer, ref. # 511.12.38.20.02.001. In spite of the extremely long wait from Omega, Rob at Toppers did a fantastic job of delivering what looks like one of the earlier of the 1948 models produced. Like many of the watches we have all seen in person, the pictures did not do this model justice at all, not even close. Even with this common experience, the 1948 stands out; this timepiece shows an exceptional amount of beauty in comparison to photos and videos.

Its proportions are well-done and the balance is flawless. Having researched vintage, non-diving, Seamasters from the 1950's, 35mm to 37mm pieces were not uncommon. At 38mm, this edition strikes a balance that is believable as a vintage piece, while also managing not to appear small on the wrist. In choosing white gold for the indices and hands, Omega hasn't cut any corners to make this timeless piece a true heirloom. Coupled with the Master Chronometer 8804 movement, this watch is as rugged as it is handsome. Omega chose to quietly underscore this fact by mounting the 1948 on a magnetic stand. Bold!

I have to admit that, from the time I placed my order for this piece, my plans were to immediately replace the tan leather strap with a dressy black leather, but when I saw the watch in person, I got it. The strap is amazingly beautiful and given the off-white color of the dial, it fits perfectly. And the unusual grain is stunning to me. I think I would still purchase an upscale black leather strap in order to wear this watch more formally, but the factory strap won me over in an instant.

The dial color hasn't been accurately captured in any photo I have seen or taken myself. It often appears stark white and that isn't the true color at all. It is a warm, off-white, not enough to be a cream color, but enough to give a subtle, nostalgic ambience.

Accuracy- right out of the box, it ran at about + 1/5 of a second a day.

In summary, if you are looking for a piece that is timeless and vintage in appearance, this Seamaster is a great choice. It can be both casual, with the stock strap, or suit and tie worthy with an upscale black strap.

I've posted pics in the "And what did you buy today" thread, but I will repost them here just for reference: