OMEGA | 2013 New Watch Releases: Basel On-Site Report

Baselworld 2013: New Watch Report

Co-Axial Models Debut, Warranty Extended to Four Years

This year, OMEGA's new watches, from ladies' models to limited editions, overwhelmingly feature the Co-Axial escapement. This innovation significantly reduces friction, ensuring long-term stability and precision. These chronometer-certified movements herald a new era for OMEGA.

Text by SHIBUYA Yasuhito

Ultra-Magnetic Resistance Models Pursue Material Innovation

In 1999, a decision by OMEGA, a prestigious Swiss watchmaker, stunned the industry. Dr. George Daniels, the renowned 20th-century watchmaker and expert in complicated watches, had invented the Co-Axial escapement, prized for its energy efficiency and durability. OMEGA declared it would replace the conventional Swiss lever escapement with this new system in all its mechanical movements. The first watches featuring this novel escapement were then unveiled.

At the time, few disputed the value of this mechanism. However, the prevailing opinion seemed to be that mass-producing it and implementing it across all mechanical movements in the future was premature.

I myself was among them. While the conventional lever escapement, perfected over 250 years, is highly accomplished, the Co-Axial escapement's more complex structure and increased parts count inevitably meant higher costs. I recall thinking, "A bold move, but perhaps too soon."

Yet, OMEGA remained steadfast, adhering to its vision. They continued development, refining and evolving the Co-Axial escapement. This year's new releases see this Co-Axial mechanical movement integrated not only into ladies' models but also into limited editions. The Co-Axial conversion of the brand's mechanical models is now nearly complete.

Examining the specifications of this year's new Co-Axial movement models is truly impressive. All models equipped with the Co-Axial movement are officially certified chronometers by COSC, boasting an average daily rate of -4 to +6 seconds. Furthermore, they all come with a four-year quality guarantee, double the standard one- or two-year period. Co-Axial technology has significantly elevated the standard for mechanical watches.

Seamaster Aqua Terra “15000 Gauss”

Constellation Sedna

And this year, OMEGA has introduced another groundbreaking advancement to the world of mechanical watches. Collaborating with a partner company, they developed a special alloy that is inherently resistant to magnetization. By using this material for the movement, they have achieved an astonishing magnetic resistance of 1.5 Tesla (15,000 Gauss) without the need for a soft iron case or shield.

In today's environment, where devices emitting magnetic fields—from computers and home appliances to countless other electronics—are increasingly prevalent around our wrists, this capability holds immense value. Moreover, OMEGA plans to gradually introduce this new material into more mainstream models, much like they did with the Co-Axial escapement. This will undoubtedly reshape the standards for mechanical watches once again.