For one fan, a 40-year search for a cherished piece of television memorabilia has finally concluded. The object of this prolonged quest is the Omni, the distinctive time-traveling device from the 1980s science fiction series Voyagers! The show, which aired primarily in 1982 and 1983, featured a young Jeffrey, played by Meeno Peluce, as a co-protagonist alongside Phineas Bogg, portrayed by the late Jon-Erik Hexum. The series centered on these two characters traveling through time to ensure historical events remained on their proper course.
The Omni, a handheld prop, captured the imagination of the show's viewers with its unique aesthetic. Described as appearing cast in brass with mechanical dials, a miniature globe for targeting destinations, rivets, a hinged cover, and colored indicator lights, its design leaned heavily into a steampunk sensibility. This visual style distinguished it from the more futuristic technology often seen in other science fiction of the era, suggesting a deliberate preference for a Jules Verne-inspired look over a Gene Roddenberry one for the time-traveling Voyagers organization.
In the pre-internet era, information about the prop and the show was scarce, especially after Voyagers! was canceled after its first season. This lack of readily available details only amplified the mystery and appeal of the Omni for young viewers like the author, who developed a lasting fascination with the device. This interest was further fueled by other media featuring time-manipulating objects, such as the TV movie The Girl, the Gold Watch & Everything.
As time progressed and the internet became accessible, fans began attempting to recreate the Omni prop. However, these fan-made versions were often difficult to find and prohibitively expensive. The situation changed recently with the discovery of a predominantly 3D-printed replica available on Etsy. This version, priced at approximately $250, offered an accessible entry point for acquiring a tangible piece of Voyagers! history.
While not a perfect replica of the original prop and primarily constructed from resin, this Etsy find features functional brass dials and a working hinged cover. It also includes a belt clip for potential cosplay applications. Although the lights do not animate and no sound effects are present, the replica serves as a satisfactory display piece for fans seeking a connection to the show without the significant investment required for more elaborate versions, some of which now exceed $1,000 and are made of brass. The acquisition marks the end of a decades-long personal search for a unique piece of television memorabilia.