1972 Omega DeVille "Andrew Grima" Blue Dial Manual 511.0383
Here we have an exceptionally rare configuration 1972 Omega De Ville "Andrew Grima" Blue Dial 511.0383, a striking representation of Omega’s transition into the bold, experimental aesthetics of the early 1970s. Part of the highly celebrated, avant-garde "Emerald Line," this reference leans into the era's love for mid-century modern asymmetry and sculptural luxury, offering a genuinely artistic alternative to the classic dress watch. Designed by Andrew Grima, who was a prominent figure in the world of jewellery design, especially recognised during the 1960s and 1970s. He owned an exclusive boutique on Jermyn Street, located in the heart of London’s Mayfair. Grima specialised in high-end, bespoke jewellery and counted British royalty among his clients, including Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret. His significant contributions to the field of jewellery are so well-regarded that his work is included in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Featuring a 38mm unusually elongated case profile, it possesses a distinct "Horizontale" presence that sits elegantly low with a thickness of just 9mm. The integrated lug design leads to a compact 28.5mm lug-to-lug length, allowing the watch to drape smoothly across the wrist with a seamless, jewellery-like flow. On the right, a signed Omega crown sits purposefully integrated into the clean geometry of the flank. The defining centrepiece is its unique faceted crystal, which mimics the intricate cuts of a gemstone to evoke a sense of architectural depth. Beneath it lies the deep blue dial, which shifts beautifully in tone and is kept intentionally restrained to respect the watch's clean aesthetics. Hour markers are printed directly onto the dial surface, keeping the profile flat and letting the architectural lines speak for themselves. Slender white-painted sword hands sweep across the centre, contrasting sharply against the blue backdrop to ensure effortless legibility. True to Omega's minimalist execution for this elite series, the dial carries only the minimalist Omega script and subtle De Ville branding at the 3 o'clock position. On the reverse, a solid snap-on case back protects the ultra-slim, manually wound Omega Calibre 625 movement. This refined, 17-jewel movement beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour and is a testament to Omega's mastery of thin mechanical watchmaking during this golden era of design. The watch comes paired with a 20mm premium leather strap secured by an Omega pin buckle.