Omega Broad Arrow watches are a testament to the brand’s long-standing heritage and innovation in watchmaking. The Broad Arrow style, characterized by its triangular hands with a thicker arrow on one end, is more than just a design element; it’s a nod to the British military designation of watches issued to their armed forces during World War II.
This distinctive feature first graced the dial of an Omega Speedmaster in 1957, marking the beginning of a legacy that continues to add a touch of vintage elegance and historical significance to Omega‘s timepieces today.
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About the Omega “Broad Arrow” Hand
The Broad Arrow hands have become synonymous with Omega’s dedication to precision and style. The first appearance of this design was in the Omega Speedmaster in 1957, a model that would go on to become one of the most iconic watches in history, not just for its association with space exploration but also for its unique design elements.
The use of the Broad Arrow was not just for aesthetics; it was practical, improving legibility and ensuring that the watches met the stringent requirements of the British military at the time. Over the years, the Broad Arrow has reappeared in various Omega models, each time bringing with it a sense of nostalgia and a reminder of the brand’s storied past.
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Excellent Examples of Omega “Broad Arrow” Watches
The Omega “Broad Arrow” hands continue to feature in modern designs of Omega watches, serving the purpose of enhancing legibility on each dial. You can find them in various watches across the Speedmaster and Seamaster line, their prominent shape and clear design allowing for quick and accurate time reading at a glance. Here are some excellent examples.
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Omega Speedmaster ’57
The Speedmaster ’57, a tribute to the original 1957 model, was meticulously designed to blend historical aesthetics with modern functionality. Its Broad Arrow hands are not merely decorative but serve as a homage to the original Speedmaster’s military and space exploration heritage. The watch’s co-axial calibre 9300 movement represents Omega’s commitment to precision, making it a standout piece for those who value both the historical significance and technological advancement of their timepieces. Additionally, its tachymeter scale, engraved on the bezel, enhances its functionality as a tool for measuring speed, staying true to the Speedmaster’s origins as a racing chronograph.
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Omega Planet Ocean Big Blue GMT
The Big Blue GMT is a pioneering timepiece, showcasing Omega’s mastery over ceramic materials. Its seamless blue ceramic body is not just about aesthetic appeal; it’s also about durability and innovation. The Broad Arrow hands, coated with luminescent material, ensure that this watch remains legible in the darkest depths of the ocean, up to 600 meters underwater. This model’s GMT function, which allows for tracking two time zones, is a nod to modern globetrotters, merging Omega’s diving heritage with the needs of contemporary explorers.
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Omega Speedmaster Enamel Limited Edition
This limited edition Speedmaster stands out for its rare enamel dial, offering a level of craftsmanship that is increasingly uncommon in modern watchmaking. The use of Broad Arrow hands on this watch not only adds a vintage touch but also enhances readability against the intricate enamel background. This model’s chronograph function, a hallmark of the Speedmaster line, is accentuated by the detailed sub-dials, which offer a glimpse into Omega’s meticulous attention to detail. The limited production run of this edition makes it a coveted piece for collectors, embodying the essence of Omega’s pioneering spirit.
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Omega Aqua Terra Tokyo 2020 Edition
The Aqua Terra Tokyo 2020 Edition is a vibrant celebration of the Olympic Games, featuring a design inspired Tokyo 2020 Olympics emblem. Its sharper Broad Arrow hands are not just functional but symbolic, pointing towards Omega’s ongoing commitment to excellence in sports timing. The watch’s Master Chronometer certification guarantees top-tier performance, making it a reliable companion for any activity. The use of Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8900 ensures that this watch isn’t just a commemorative piece but a testament to Omega’s relentless pursuit of precision.
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Omega Planet Ocean “Cookies and Cream” GMT
The playful “Cookies and Cream” GMT combines a casual aesthetic with serious horological credentials. Its unique color scheme is perfectly balanced by the classic Broad Arrow hands, providing a nod to Omega’s rich history while catering to contemporary tastes. Equipped with the Omega Master Chronometer calibre 8906, this watch meets the highest standards of accuracy, performance, and magnetic resistance. The “Cookies and Cream” is not only a visually striking piece but also a robust tool watch, capable of withstanding the rigors of deep-sea exploration and international travel alike.
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Final Thoughts
Omega’s Broad Arrow watches are more than just timepieces; they are a celebration of the brand’s historical significance and its continuous innovation in watchmaking. Whether it’s the classic Speedmaster ’57, the robust Planet Ocean Big Blue GMT, or the elegant Speedmaster Enamel Limited Edition, each Broad Arrow watch tells a story of precision, durability, and style.
For those looking to explore more about Omega’s Broad Arrow watches and perhaps add one to their collection, SwissWatchExpo offers a curated selection of Omega watches, showcasing the best of what the brand has to offer. Omega’s commitment to excellence is evident in each Broad Arrow watch, making them a coveted item for collectors and watch enthusiasts alike.
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