The Omega Chronograph reference CK2393 is one of the most fascinating chronographs of the 1940s. With its well-balanced 38 mm stainless steel case, distinctive olive-shaped pushers, and elegant faceted downturned lugs, it perfectly embodies the classic design language of its era. Powering the watch is the legendary Omega caliber 33.3 — one of the most important chronograph movements of its time and, to this day, a milestone in Swiss watchmaking.
Without question, the dial is the watch's greatest highlight. It features a beautiful two-tone design, with the central section subtly contrasting against the surrounding rings and scales. Even more striking is the array of colorful measuring scales, which gives the dial exceptional depth and visual complexity.
The red telemeter scale was originally designed to calculate the distance of an event — such as artillery fire or a thunderstorm — by measuring the time between seeing the flash and hearing the sound. The green pulsometer scale allowed doctors and medics to quickly determine a patient's heart rate. Completing the layout are two blue tachymeter scales: an outer tachymeter for measuring higher speeds and a spiral "snail" tachymeter in the center that enables the accurate measurement of lower speeds — a sophisticated feature found on only a small number of chronographs.
Today, chronographs are often appreciated primarily as sporty luxury watches. Originally, however, they were highly precise professional instruments. The various scales on this model are a vivid reminder of the many practical purposes a chronograph once served — whether in military applications, medicine, motorsports, or anywhere precise time measurement was essential.
The original dial of this example is preserved in beautiful condition. All printed scales remain crisp and remarkably sharp, while the dial has developed a warm, even patina over the decades that enhances its authentic vintage character without compromising legibility. The blued steel hands harmonize perfectly with the blue tachymeter scales, adding another refined touch to the overall design.
Inside beats the legendary Omega caliber 33.3. Introduced in 1933, this column-wheel chronograph movement was Omega's first caliber developed specifically for wristwatch chronographs and established new standards for precision, reliability, and ease of operation. Thanks to its robust and sophisticated construction, it quickly became one of the most highly regarded chronograph movements of the pre-war and early post-war period. Many of Omega's later chronograph calibers were derived from its architecture, making the caliber 33.3 the foundation of an entire generation of legendary Omega chronographs.
The CK2393 combines everything collectors seek in an exceptional vintage chronograph: a historically significant movement, a rare and beautifully executed multicolor dial, and a timelessly elegant stainless steel case. It is not only an outstanding collector's piece but also a remarkable reminder of an era when a chronograph was far more than a stylish accessory — it was an indispensable precision instrument.
Condition
Dial: very well-preserved original, unrestored dial with an authentic, even patina – signed "Omega".
Case: 38 mm stainless steel case with light signs of wear – sharp faceted downturned lugs – original olive-shaped chronograph pushers – original crown – correct engravings inside the case back.
Movement: Manual-wind Omega caliber 33.3 – running reliably. Timegrapher results: rate deviation +32 seconds/day, amplitude 203°, beat error 0.9 ms.
Case number: 9978xxx
Movement number: 9388xxx
Int.Exe.: 4529332