MUSEUM RARE Antique 1939 OMEGA German U-Boat Submarine Officer Award Watch 51mm

An extraordinary opportunity to acquire an exceptionally rare, museum-quality antique Omega presentation timepiece, circa 1939. This monumental 51mm wristwatch was historically commissioned as an elite officer’s award for service in the German submarine fleet. Boasting immaculate preservation, this watch represents a profound piece of mid-century European military horology, combining Swiss precision with highly specific, period-accurate naval iconography.

Historical Context Dating to 1939, this bespoke timepiece was created during a period of rapid expansion and intense operational focus for the German naval forces (Kriegsmarine). Submarine commanders and elite U-Boat officers were often presented with highly customized horological instruments to commemorate significant milestones, successful patrols, or prestigious commissions. The dial proudly bears the traditional Prussian-German military motto “Gott mit uns” (God with us), alongside the iconic Iron Cross—a venerable emblem of valor and maritime discipline. Timepieces of this specific configuration and historic magnitude are incredibly scarce on the open market, making this a keystone acquisition for serious collectors of military history and fine watchmaking.

The Dial The pristine white dial is a masterpiece of historical preservation. As detailed in photos, time is marked by striking, highly legible black Arabic numerals, perfectly contrasted by the elegant antique spade hands.

• Iconography: The upper hemisphere is arched with the “Gott mit uns” inscription above the classic Omega logo. At the 3 o’clock position, a finely detailed profile of a 1930s-era German U-Boat submarine cuts across the dial . At the 6 o’clock position sits a sharp, unblemished Iron Cross.

• Sub-Seconds: A crisp subsidiary seconds dial is uniquely positioned at 9 o’clock, a hallmark of large-caliber movement conversions engineered for high-precision field reading.

The Case The watch commands massive presence on the wrist with its robust 51mm gold-plated case. As seen in photo, the case profile is beautifully rounded, polished to a mirror finish, and features a prominent, tactile onion crown designed for easy winding even while wearing officer’s gloves. The unadorned, high-polish caseback  snaps tightly shut, protecting the movement within. The inner caseback is fully stamped with the Omega hallmark, reading “FAB. SUISSE / SWISS-MADE / 1140” 

The Movement At the heart of this historic award piece beats an immaculate, high-grade Swiss Omega manual-wind movement, beautifully showcased in the photo.

• Specifications: 15 Jewels, fully signed “OMEGA”.

• Serial Number: The movement bears the serial number 9388402, accurately dating the manufacture of this caliber to 1939. The gilded bridges and plates remain in spectacular condition, reflecting the highest standards of preservation.

Condition Report This timepiece is categorized as perfect, museum-grade condition. The enamel-style dial shows no hairline fractures, chipping, or fading. The gold-plated case is vibrant and free of major dings or plate loss, a testament to its careful curation over the decades. The movement winds smoothly, sets perfectly, and runs strong. It is fitted with a high-quality, lightly textured black leather strap with a matching gold-tone buckle , completing the distinguished aesthetic.

Terms of Sale Please carefully review all provided photographs as they represent the exact item you will receive and are a critical part of the description. This historic artifact will be packaged with the utmost care and shipped fully insured with signature confirmation required upon delivery. International buyers are responsible for any applicable customs duties or import taxes.