Trading update August 2026: Due to new packaging regulations we are now unable to trade with EU countries. Tariffs still apply to US buyers. Please see the Shipping page for up to date information.

1953 Omega 'Fat Arrow' 6B/542 RAF issue

Omega Cal. 283 movement

£2750.00

The Omega 6B/542 'Fat Arrow' also known as the Omega '53', was issued only in 1953. 6B signifies aircrew equipment and the watch was procured under an RAF contract for issue to aircrew. When originally issued the dials were marked with the more familiar 'thin arrow' version of the pheon, but the watches were later re-dialled with 'Fat Arrow' tritium dials. Original thin arrow versions are now extremely rare and command very high prices. The Fat Arrow Omega 53 is still a a relatively rare piece with only around 5000 having been issued, and a great addition to any military watch collection.

Powered by the excellent Omega cal. 283 centre seconds movement, the watch is capable of a high level of accuracy and is a reliable, high grade movement.

At 36mm diameter, it may seem like fairly small watch, but the longer lugs give it the impression of being bigger and it wears very well. Overall a beautiful watch and a quality timepiece.

The watch is supplied on a, 'RAF type' single pass grey nylon strap, with fabric keeper.

The condition of the watch, cosmetically and mechanically, is good, with the watch having been checked over and regulated prior to listing.

The watch mid-case is in good original, unpolished condition with general minor signs of wear. The case back is in good condition. The dial is in good condition, with nicely aged tritium lume plots. The hands are in good condition with aged tritium lume in good condition and with great colour. The polished hand frames are good with some minor tarnishing. The crystal is unmarked. The inner antimagnetic dust cover and doohickey are both present.

Please assess the cosmetic condition of the watch yourself from the images. The images form an important part of the description.

The Omega cal 283 movement has not been serviced, as when checked it was found to be running extremely well, consistent with having been well maintained and serviced in the recent past, prior to acquisition. The watch movement has been inspected and the jewels lubricated, and the watch has been regulated on the timegrapher machine. Amplitude is at 300+ degrees, beat error is 0.4ms and accuracy running inside +/-5 seconds per day (measured at a stable +/-0.0 seconds per day on the bench - this may differ in use and subsequently). An images has been included in the listing showing the timegrapher readings

The watch is absolutely suitable for everyday use, but it is a vintage watch so is not recommended for sports or use in extreme conditions. The watch has not been pressure tested and should not be considered water resistant. This watch is covered by our non-waterproof 6 month guarantee.