Setting new standards in master watchmaking for the third millennium, Omega’s exclusive Co-Axial Escapement technology now makes its appearance with an imposing square De Ville X2 Big Date Co-Axial chronometer. Available in 18-ct. red gold, this noble metal is a fitting presentation for the superlative De Ville timepiece. The X2 was inspired by the 1951 Cosmic that as watch enthusiasts will remember, was originally housed in a smaller (33mm x 33mm) case. The model was re-launched in 2001 as a limited edition “Museum” piece of which only 1,952 examples were produced. Once again adopting the Cosmic’s distinctive styling, the De Ville X2 Big Date offers a fresh take on this classic to complement the extraordinary heart that beats inside. The X2 Big Date is a manly-sized timepiece (35mm x 35mm) with a twist that uses striking contrasts with panache, producing a bold, new take on luxury watchmaking.

The X2’s name refers to the juxtaposition of the audaciously large gold Roman and Arabic numerals on the three-hour markers and in the big date window. Self-assured design gestures such as this, combined with fine workmanship are the key to the X2’s intriguing looks. On the dial the three dimensional, highly polished applied numerals, Omega logo and name are all crafted out of 18-ct red gold. The black dial offsets the white painted “railway” minute track and date numbers. Exemplary of the level of detail on the dial, the ‘Alpha’-styled minute and hour hands are facetted and diamond-polished and like the seconds hand are all fashioned in 18-ct red gold. In the Big Date window, which is framed by an 18-ct red gold border, two overlapping discs ensure easy reading of the date.

The contrast of the play of light between the brushed-gold finish and the lustre of the polished edges soften the strong lines of the robust case. Even the lugs are facetted and then polished and brushed to match the finishes of the case and together, create a harmonious whole.

The power behind this stunning watch is provided by a self-winding Omega calibre 2610. This officially certified chronometer (COSC) movement has a 48-hour power reserve and is fitted with Omega’s proprietary Co-Axial Escapement and the Omega free-sprung balance. Together they offer excellent stability to the watch’s going rate over long periods and enhance the performance of a truly superlative chronometer. Luxurious finishes such as decorated bridges confirm the prestigious nature of this movement. Even the back of the watch is decorated with a vertically brushed satin finish and a medallion of Chronos, the Greek god of time, and the legend ‘X2 Co-Axial Escapement’.

For all the attention to aesthetics and mechanical superiority, this watch has a strong practical streak. The familiar facetted and diamond-polished Alpha hands are coated with a luminous finish to ensure optimum visibility at night. The domed sapphire crystal is scratch-resistant and has a multiple-layer, anti-reflective treatment on the inside of the glass and is water resistant to 50 meters/167ft. Like all De Villes featuring the Co-Axial movement, the X2 Big Date comes with a three-year guarantee. The watch is presented on a high-gloss black alligator leather strap that is integrated into the case between the lugs and a brushed 18-ct red gold fold-over clasp ensures the watch remains securely fastened yet offers maximum comfort to the wearer.