Omega Chronostop

Why We Love It

Omega has experimented with their design language heavily over the years and that has resulted in some very fun, very cool watches.

Case in point: The Chronostop Chronograph

Originally, these models were fitted with either a leather strap or a mesh steel bracelet from the factory. The latter had a clasp with blank space to engrave the driver's blood type (remember, in the 60s, auto racing was still dangerous!) The 40mm cushioned case features a multi-layered matte black dial. A distinct orange chronograph hand offers contrast and brightens up the entire dial.

These Chronostops don't come to market frequently, and we don't expect this one to last long. 

The Story

Perhaps the most eccentric Omega watch ever produced (and knowing Omega, that’s saying a lot), the Chronostop driver’s watch is undeniably charming. After all, how many instances can you name of a watch brand attempting to change the way that their customers wear a watch?

The Omega Chronostop was introduced in the mid-60s as an attempt by Omega to create a lower-priced chronograph watch targeted at younger consumers. More novelty than true chronograph, the Chronostop is only able to time events up to 1 minute. We’re sure some people found a good use for it, but to be honest, this is not the most functional chronograph ever made, but at least it’s fun to use! The mono-pusher stopwatch is started with the initial press of the pusher and then it is pressed and held to freeze the orange hand and read the seconds. When the pusher is released, the totalizer returns to zero.

The most interesting thing about the Chronostop is that it was designed to be worn on the underside of wrist. Omega advertised the Chronostrop as a driver’s watch, and pushed the idea of wearing it in that unusual fashion since the topside of the wrist isn’t easily visible while your hands are on a steering wheel. Omega even created a special version of the watch with a rotated dial (see HERE).

This particular example is completely original (excluding the bracelet), driven by the Calibre 865 manual-wound movement, and features a gorgeous blue dial with original handset in excellent condition.  Its size, dial design, and unique functionality make it an interesting conversation piece, not to mention a collectable timepiece.   If you’re looking for something fun, colorful and affordable, this is the one!

A video by Hodinkee explaining the history and operation of the Chronostop can be found HERE.

More information on the full Omega Chronostop line can be found HERE.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.