Lessons In Wristory: Omega Seamaster Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader

Once again we’re bringing you the latest edition of our Omega chronograph series. This time we dive into a couple of rare Seamasters from the early 70’s — two variants of the reference 145.023. These peculiar timepieces, like many other Omegas, got the Chuck Maddox treatment, and are commonly known as the Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader. Each variant has a large angular case — almost helmet-like — with the classic manual winding Caliber 861 movement also used in Speedmasters of the same period.

The case is a unique octagonally-shaped, two-piece construction; the main portion houses the movement, which is stainless steel and then covered in either a polished silver or gloss black tungsten metal shell. The gloss black shell is actually thick enough to add an extra half-millimeter to the diameter, and a millimeter to the thickness of the case.

Despite the endless amount of chronographs released during this time period, Omega wasn’t simply going through the motions. Adding tungsten to the mix greatly increased the durability of stainless steel, further pushing the 145.023 into tool watch territory. What’s more, the venerable caliber 861 was held in place by O-rings on either side, increasing shock resistance.

Not for the timid, Anakin and Vader clock in at 44-millimeters and 44.5-millimeters in diameter, and 14-millimeters and 15-millimeters in thickness, respectively. It also features integral pushers and screw-down crown — without the latter, the Seamaster badge would make considerably less sense. Omega chose to go with hidden lugs, not unlike a number of their other references at the time. Although the strangely shaped case is par for the course for an Omega chronograph from the 70’s, and the movement is the tried and true 861, there’s just something about these examples that intrigue us and have created a cult following. The rarity of each is likely an influence, and nicknames certainly don’t hurt the cool factor either.

Neither variant is an easy piece to come by or acquire. If you happen to stumble across one and have the means, they would be one of the more unique pieces you’ll ever see, and a good investment. It’s hard to nail down the true value since they are seen on the market so rarely — it’s one of those cases where rarity doesn’t always equal high value. In our opinion, since it’s powered by the ubiquitous 861, it really shouldn’t be touching anywhere near five figures. With that said, the Anakin in good condition can reach anywhere from $4,000 to $6,000 and the Vader has in fact fetched up near $11,000 (but that was at Omegamania; not a trustworthy data point). The odds of finding either of these are about the same as Lando not leaving the party with your girlfriend, and they’re just about as cool as him too.

As always we have to thank the late great Chuck Maddox at chronomaddox.com for his Omega expertise. Featured photo at the top courtesy of Sieko & Citizen Forum member Elveez.

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