BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
The classic Seamaster Diver 300M watch was released 25 years ago and it feels good to know that we can see it again, albeit in an updated form. The new watch is also an “affordable” Omega diver’s watch so read on for the details.
Ceramic, as we know, is a tough material and we see it more and more on top specced watches. Omega has been experimenting with this wonder material in their lineup and seeing the new Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Ceramic-and-Titanium, seems ordinary. Interestingly though, the brand has improved the model with updates on the movement and on the watch face.
Moving on, we see that the new Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Ceramic-and-Titanium features a black ceramic central case. Pure black as we know may not really appeal to some of us so Omega contrasted this with titanium bezel, caseback, the crown, all the way to the helium escape valve. Throw in a back rubber strap, and we get ourselves a nice dark diver that is both very functional and easy on the eyes.
On the specs department, the watch is the same as its predecessor. We have the same 300 m water resistance which is achieved by using the NAIAD lock caseback protected with sapphire crystal. For a tool watch though, it is quite rare to see an exhibition caseback much more for a watch with 300 m water resistance, that is definitely pro territory.
Moreover, the new watch comes in a new size. It is now larger at 43.5 mm in diameter, not that much though compared to the previous size at 42 mm seen on the steel watches. I believe it will also be thicker, say 14 mm which begs the question – is the brand really converting this watch to a tool-ish watch instead of a lifestyle one?
Moving to the dial, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Ceramic-and-Titanium looks quite indistinguishable from its predecessor, although it is different. The laser engraved wave pattern is new, and I like it more than the classic grooves. Also, the raised patterns look cooler than the recessed grooves. Moreover, the classic hands and hour markers filled with luminous coat also yield a legible display. One thing to note is the absence of date display. This somehow affects the general build of the watch, making it more appealing to the collectors. This is possible because of the change in the movement, from 8800 of the steel version to the 8806.
Finally, powering the watch is the in-house automatic calibre 8806 featuring the brand’s greatest innovations. The watch features a Master Chronometer certification. We also see a co-axial escapement technology. The 55 hours of power reserve for a diver is definitely fantastic. Meanwhile, the Arabesque decoration as seen through the caseback looks nice, though for me, it is just some overly fancy intertwined lines.
The price for Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Ceramic-and-Titanium is CHF 7,500. Visit Omega here.
