Omega British Military RAF 2777-1 SC 53 Thin Arrow

This ultra-rare Omega 2777-1 SC "Thin Arrow" from 1953 is far more than just a vintage collector's watch – it is an authentic piece of British aviation history. Its dial tells the story of decades of service – in cockpits, on airfields, perhaps even above the clouds of Europe.

Produced according to the strict specifications of the British Air Ministry, approximately 5900 examples were delivered exclusively to the Royal Air Force in 1953.

When these watches left the factory, the hands and dial were filled with radium lume. However, during the 1960s, due to safety regulations, they were recalled by the manufacturer: the radium was replaced with tritium and the distinctive arrow was repainted in a thicker style – giving rise to the so-called "Fat Arrow" versions. The early, original models featuring the fine thin arrow and radium lume – like this example – are exceptionally rare today and highly prized among collectors under the name "Thin Arrow 53".

This particular piece captivates with its beautifully even patina – both on the main dial surface and within the luminous numerals and plots. It reflects the life and history of a watch that once served in military duty.

The stainless-steel case was purpose-built to meet the demanding standards of the Royal Air Force: waterproof, shock-resistant and anti-magnetic – a technical achievement of its era. Inside beats the reliable Omega Caliber 283, a robust hand-wound movement with rose-gilt finishing, renowned for its precision and durability.

The caseback bears the distinct military engravings that underline the watch's official provenance. As is correct for these models, this example features fixed lug bars – perfect when paired with a NATO strap that preserves its authentic, field-ready character.

A watch that doesn't just tell time but tells history – an honest, gracefully aged witness to Britain's military past, whose patina and authenticity are today more valuable than any flawless surface. In an age where perfection is often artificially created, this timepiece stands for what is real, unaltered and truly lived.

Condition Report
Dial: original unrestored dial from 1953 – evenly aged patina – original radium lume in markers and hands – thin arrow at 6 o'clock – signed "Omega Swiss Made".

Case: 37 mm stainless-steel case in great condition – light signs of wear – full profile with intact lines – deep military engravings on the caseback: 6645-101000, 6B/542, 3617/53 – fixed lug bars – screw-down back.

Movement: hand-wound Omega Caliber 283 – timegrapher results: rate: -9 s/day, amplitude: 258, beat error: 1.1.

Movement number: 12804xxx

Int.Exe.: 25630