Help identifying Omega with Caliber 26.5 T3 SOB

Hi everyone,
I’m new to the forum, and first of all, I’d like to apologize if I’ve posted this in the wrong section. The amount of information available about Omega watches is truly overwhelming, and I’m doing my best to learn as much as I can.

I recently acquired a vintage Omega wristwatch that has raised several questions. I’d really appreciate your help in identifying the exact model and understanding whether the dial and hands might be original or replacements.

Watch details:

• Brand: Omega
• Movement: Manual wind
• Caliber: Omega 26.5 T3 SOB (as engraved on the movement)
• Case: Stainless steel
• Case back: Snap-on, with no visible external references
• Size: Approx. 33 mm without crown
• Dial: Black with white Arabic numerals and small seconds at 6 o’clock
• Hands: Hour hand (white pencil-style), minute hand (mismatched style), white small seconds hand
• Condition: The watch runs and keeps time well

Information gathered:

I’ve learned that the 26.5 T3 caliber and its variants like “SOB” were commonly used in Omega watches during the late 1930s and 1940s. This movement appeared in both military and civilian models. It’s often associated with small steel cases, sober dials, and functional layouts.

By looking through this forum and sources like Mitka, Atelier de Griff, and Chrono24, I’ve found similar examples in references such as:

• Omega Ref. 2450 (WWII military)
• Omega “Officer” style cases with coin-edge bezels
• Other undocumented or unmarked cases with minimalist vintage designs

Current doubts:

I was told on another Spanish watch forum that the dial may not be original, as it has printing imperfections and details that Omega would not have let pass. It was also pointed out that the hands appear mismatched, possibly from different sets or replaced at some point.

I understand there are inconsistencies in the design, although the overall vintage aesthetic is preserved. What I’m trying to determine now is whether this watch left the factory in this condition, or if it has been reassembled or altered (possibly a “frankenwatch”).

I’d be grateful for any information, thoughts, or comparisons with other similar watches that could help me better understand what I have here.



Thank you very much in advance for your time and help.

Best regards from Spain,
Carlos

I really appreciate your honesty - it’s sometimes difficult to tell with vintage pieces, especially when you’re just starting to dive into the world of watch collecting. I’m still very new to vintage Omegas, so I’m grateful for every bit of insight.

At this point, I’d love to know if there’s any chance to identify the original reference or get closer to what this watch might have originally looked like (dial design, correct hands, etc.). I know it might never be fully restored to factory spec, but I’d still like to learn as much as I can about its origin.

Thanks again for your help and time.