Ultimately, I feel like the awards at Omega are in the opposite direction to those of the Olympic Games. In fact, in my opinion, it is the watch that came in third place dedicated to Paris 2024 that wins hands down the gold medal for the best celebration of the event. The Omega Specialities Edition Bronze Gold Paris 2024 is in any case much more attractive than the Seamaster (I am not a fan of the two-tone approach) and the variations of the Speedmaster Chronoscope (which I definitely find too big with a slightly confusing dial).
If I had to behave like a member of a jury of an artistic discipline, I could only observe that the Omega Bronze Gold Paris 2024 ticks many boxes. The first of its qualities is its neo-retro look which gives it an old-fashioned charm. Nothing surprising in this since the watch is inspired by a model from 1939. So obviously, the link with the Olympic Games seems less obvious presented in this way. But the sector-type dial recalls measuring instruments and the connection then seems more logical.
Then, Omega did not make any real mistakes in its execution. The piece is balanced with its 39mm diameter, the second hand sub-dial is slightly close to the center but this does not harm the balance of the whole and the use of the vintage Omega logo is appreciable. Eliminatory errors such as the addition of a date window have been avoided. And the movement is even hand-wound which is a good point considering the design. The finishing of the various elements is impeccable and I particularly appreciated the hands, the crown and the “Clous de Paris” motif in the center of the dial. The small gap is however in this area because I think that Omega could and should have avoided inscribing the reference in 925 silver. This Ag925 inscription, even discreet, does not add anything and spoils the purity of the dial a little. One day, brands will have to understand that these inscriptions on the dial side are ugly. But I can reassure you right away: there is nothing prohibitive here.
Another very good point is the subtle reference to Paris 2024. Subtle when looking at the watch from the dial side since the Paris Games logo occupies the entire back of the case. But when the piece is worn, nothing is noticeable except, for the most attentive, the joint use of gold bronze and silver, a nod to the 3 materials of the medals. The satin case is in fact made of gold bronze and the gold hands have a PVD coating in gold bronze also to ensure consistency.
Finally, the neo-retro aesthetic did not prevent Omega from applying its current standards of quality and performance: the Omega Bronze Gold Paris 2024 is antimagnetic and certified Master Chronometer. The domed sapphire crystal is treated with a double-sided anti-reflective coating, which is very appreciable (and logical for a dress watch) and promotes readability. The movement is the hand-wound Omega caliber 8926 which has a power reserve of 72 hours for a frequency of 3.5 Hz. As previously mentioned, this caliber is not visible since the Paris 2024 logo occupies the back of the case. This seems a shame because the architecture of the caliber makes it rather pleasant to observe. However, its presentation remains very contemporary and its style might have clashed a little with the aesthetics of the dial. So, the solid back is not such a bad idea.
I really enjoyed wearing this watch. Its balance and harmonious finish make it very attractive and the color of the gold bronze gives it a warmer than precious atmosphere. The suppleness of the brown calfskin strap firmly positions the watch on the wrist. The gold bronze pin buckle is logical given the stylistic approach of this Omega.
The sale price of this commemorative piece, which is not a limited edition but rather a limited production, is 13,200 euros. In absolute terms, this is a high price for a hand-wound watch with a case that is not made of a precious metal. A De Ville Trésor with the same movement and a steel case costs 5,000 euros less. But are things comparable? The Omega Bronze Gold Paris 2024 is certainly a very successful watch, very well made and the bronze gold brings a plus. And then, the general success of the Paris 2024 Games will inevitably reflect on this watch. The event generated a lot of joy, pleasure and enthusiasm, sweeping away more or less legitimate fears. I am therefore sure that this Omega will benefit from this favorable context and the price level will fade in the face of the commemorative dimension. In any case, the third attempt was the right one. Omega finally makes its watch worthy of the Olympic Games.
The pros:
+ the quality of execution
+ movement performance
+ the reference to Paris 2024 which is not perceptible on the dial side
The cons:
– the inscription Ag925 on the dial
– the high price… but unfortunately hardly surprising in the watchmaking world of 2024
