Omega Brings Back the Seamaster Railmaster in Two Iterations
In 2017, Omega celebrated the 60th anniversary of its iconic 1957 Trilogy with three limited-edition timepieces honoring the Speedmaster, the Seamaster 300, and the Railmaster. Due to the success of that launch, the Railmaster was once again added to Omega's catalogue after its resurrection in 2003, however discontinued later. Now, Omega brings it back in two executions that blend vintage charm and contemporary innovation.
While it never quite took off like its Seamaster and Speedmaster siblings, the Seamaster Railmaster, which was originally marketed towards scientists, technicians, and railroad workers (hence the name) exposed to strong electromagnetic fields on a daily basis, is nevertheless beloved by vintage-watch enthusiasts. No surprise as using a double-case design to ensure its antimagnetic properties, it was one of these 1950s legends that pioneered magnetic resistance in wristwatches, alongside IWC's Ingenieur (1954) and Rolex's Milgauss (1957).
The original Railmaster distinguished itself with a magnetic resistance of 1,000 gauss through its copper-finished movement, double case, extra-thick dial, and iron dusting. However, it did not have as much success as its brand counterparts or competitors, and eventually ceased production in 1963.
Part of the Heritage Series, the new Railmaster releases–one with central seconds (ref. 235.12.38.20.06.001) and another with small seconds (ref. 235.10.38.20.13.001)–stick closely to the original success formula: minimalist dials, sturdy cases, and plenty of heritage cues. Although the watch faces and seconds's display differ, both new versions share the same case design, measuring 38mm in diameter and 12.36mm in thickness. Water-resistant to 150 meters, the steel case is distinguished by a combination of brushed and polished finishes, with a smooth polished bezel that frames the domed sapphire crystal.
What truly stands out are the watch faces in subdued earthy shades: The gray one stays true to the original with a central seconds hand, and the beige one features a small seconds display. Both designs embrace the signature elements that define the Railmaster— a clean, no-date layout with just the Omega and Railmaster logos, elongated triangular hour markers, a precise minute track, Arabic numerals at the cardinal points, and the signature broad arrow hands. All elements are color-coordinated, including the Superluminova coating for nighttime readability. To add a contemporary edge, Omega has introduced a subtle gradient effect on the dials, giving each version a distinct and modern personality while respecting its heritage.
The two versions are equipped with distinct Co-Axial movements: The central seconds model is powered by the Omega caliber 8806, while the small seconds iteration houses the caliber 8804. Both movements deliver robust power reserves of 55 hours and 60 hours, respectively, stored in one barrel. In keeping with Omega’s commitment to modern-day standards, both calibers are Master Chronometer-certified by METAS and offer exceptional magnetic resistance of up to 15,000 gauss—making them 15 times more resistant than the original Railmaster.
Also aligned with contemporary watchmaking standards is the sapphire crystal case back, which invites to take a closer look at the movement’s refined finishing touches. These include rhodium-plated bridges adorned with Geneva Waves in Arabesque, red-filled engravings on the rotor, and blackened components such as the screws.
The Railmaster with a gray dial is available on a black leather strap and priced at $5,400. The version with a beige dial, paired with a cognac-hued leather strap, is priced from $6,000. A bracelet is available for an additional $400 for both models.
To learn more, visit Omega, here.
