Omega Railmaster

May 4, 2010

Since the 1950s several watch manufactures have produced a special series of "antimagnetic" watches designed for people who work around magnetic activity. Antimagnetic watches were typically purchased by scientists and engineers, so the market for them is limited. As a result, few have been produced making antimagnetic watches quite rare and valuable.

The most famous antimagnetic watch is the Rolex Milgauss which was originally made in the 1950s and is known for its unusual lightning bolt second hand. Other manufactures of antimagnetic watches were Patek Philippe, maker of the Amagnetic model and IWC, famous for their Ingenuir model. Omega also made an antimagnetic model called the Railmaster.

The Omega Railmaster was introduced in 1957 and was marketed to railway professionals. Since the early pocket watch days, Omega has always provided clocks and watches for major railroad systems all over the world.

 The Railmaster is an Omega's reference 2914. The case, dial, movement and dust cover of this watch were all made of special construction and materials to shield magnetic activity. The Railmaster is a mechanical watch and powered by Omegas caliber 284 17 jewel copper finished movement. The movement is protected by a special double case and an iron dust cover that protects up to 1000 Gauss. The dial was also made thicker than normal for added protection.

In addition to the technical construction of the Railmaster, the overall design is unmatched compared to the other antimagnetic watches. The Railmaster's black dial has beautiful graphics with its triangular luminescent markers and hands. The 36mm case is a perfect size and thickness with faceted lugs. The watch looks great on either a leather of original Omega stainless steel band.

As far as value I have seen these watches trade all over the board from $6,600. to $26,000. The price disparity could be based upon watch condition and different variations which is a topic that we will talk about in a future article.

Realised Auction Prices for the Omega Railmaster

• Sotheby's, New York   - October 20, 2009         relised $11,250.

• Bonhams,  London     - June 10, 2009             relised £3,600.

• Sotheby's, New York   - April 28, 2009              relised $11,250.

• Antiquorum, Geneva   - December 11, 2008     relised $9,600.

• Sotheby's, New York     - December 10, 2008    relised $6,600.

• Sotheby's, New York     - October 17, 2008       relised $26,000. (WOW)

Get more information about this vintage Omega watch for sale.