A 1970s Omega De Ville 8272 18ct gold wristwatch by Gilbert ...

Estimate

£5,500 - £6,500

A 1970s Omega De Ville 8272 18ct gold wristwatch by Gilbert Albert. The watch having a naturalistic strap with fold-over snap clasp. The clasp marked 750 711. 1685 Caliber 620 mechanical, 17 jewels. Movement number 32 433 103, Case number D 22832 A. The interior of the case marked 18K 750 Omega Watch Co. Fab Suisse Swiss Made. Total weight 113.9g. We have confirmed that watch is ticking at time of cataloging however this watch is sold as found without guarantee that it will continue to do so. All weights, measurements and sizes are approximate. 'Gilbert Albert was born in Geneva in 1930 he always had a love of nature and this influenced his designs. His father encouraged this love alongside the study of entomology which would later inform much of his work. His prodigious talent was recognized at an early age, and at 15 years old he attended the l’Ecole des Arts Industriels in Geneva. Here he was able to explore all aspects of design and develop his love of modern sculpture and his admiration for artists such as Brancusi and Mondrian. Most importantly, he learnt to follow his college tutor’s advice that “if you want to succeed, do what others will not do”. His talent was noticed by Patek Philippe when he was only 25. He worked there as part of the designer team and was head of the workshop from 1955 to 1962, during which he coined signature asymmetrical watches for the house. He also worked with Omega SA watchmakers before opening his own atelier in 1962. Pieces made by Gilbert Albert are highly sought after by watch collectors worldwide.'