Le Forban has launched its latest chronograph, the Omaha, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Inspired by the iconic chronographs of the 1940s, the Omaha is a fitting tribute to the American soldiers who showed immense bravery on the beaches of Normandy, specifically Omaha Beach, in 1944. This release marks not only a moment in history but also adds another chapter to Le Forban’s storied collection of timepieces, which began back in 1969.
The Omaha is a perfect blend of vintage charm and contemporary craftsmanship, thoughtfully designed with details reminiscent of the elegant watches of the 1940s. The 39mm stainless steel case, extending to 40mm across the bezel, is crafted from 316L polished and brushed stainless steel, delivering a sophisticated finish that captures both durability and classic aesthetics. With an overall length of 46mm from lug to lug and a thickness of 13.9mm (11.82mm without glass), the Omaha sits comfortably on the wrist, evoking the timeless feel of a traditional chronograph while maintaining modern wearability.
One of the standout features of the Omaha is its dial, available in two striking options: Sunray Military Green or Sunray Black, both complemented by gilt sub-dials and SuperLuminova Old Radium indices. These vintage-inspired elements bring a sense of nostalgia to the watch, harking back to the utility-focused designs of mid-20th-century timepieces. The unidirectional notched rotating bezel, made of stainless steel with an aluminium bezel insert, reinforces the watch’s rugged versatility and enhances its military-inspired character.
The Omaha is powered by the Seiko NE86 automatic chronograph movement, renowned for its reliability and precision. This movement is celebrated for its chronograph functionality and its durability, making it a dependable companion for any adventure. The watch also features a domed box sapphire crystal, offering both clarity and scratch resistance, while the screw-down crown—designed in a vintage ‘pear’ shape—adds a nostalgic touch to the overall design. With a water resistance of up to 50 meters, the Omaha can easily handle the elements of day-to-day life.
Completing the classic look is an aged leather strap with a customized Le Forban buckle, designed to provide both comfort and a rugged, lived-in aesthetic. With a lug width of 20mm, this strap is the ideal complement to the vintage-inspired case, enhancing the watch’s authentic appeal. The Le Forban Omaha is not just a watch; it’s a tribute—a celebration of courage, history, and craftsmanship, capturing the spirit of 1940s chronographs while honouring those who made history during one of the most defining moments of the 20th century.
