I think that the Ofmega Premier was the classiest Italian derailleur of the mid 1980’s.

By the standards of Italian manufacturers it used a relatively advanced geometry, being essentially a derivative of the Shimano Crane. In terms of geometry, only the Rino could claim better and Campagnolo could not get close.

However the construction and finish of the Premier are in a different class from Rino - this is Campagnolo quality with precise castings polished to a beautiful pearly finish. There are sealed bearings in the pulley wheels and good chrome on the small parts. I particularly like the sand blasted panels and the raised ridge that protects the adjustment screws. Like the Gipiemme Exploit a decade later, it is slightly mysterious how such a finely made derailleur could suddenly appear and then, a few years later, simply disappear again.

A wee beauty.

• Derailleur brands: Ofmega
• Country: Italy
• Date of introduction: 1984
• Date of this example: unknown
• Model no.: 0520?
• Weight: 221g
• Maximum cog: 28 teeth?
• Total capacity: 24 teeth?
• Pulley centre to centre: 46mm
• Index compatibility: friction
• Chain width: 3/32”
• Logic: top normal
• B pivot: sprung
• P pivot: sprung
• Materials: aluminium