To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Omega Seamaster 300M launched in 1993, this year at Baselworld 2018, Omega decided to present 14 new models that have been released as part of a complete makeover to the watch that includes a larger case size measuring now 42 mm in diameter, a new movement —calibre 8800—, polished ceramic dials, reshaped hands, ceramic bezels and even new materials that go beyond what we are used to see from Omega, amongst other updates.
In total, there are 14 new Diver 300M models, including 6 in stainless steel and 8 in a mix of stainless steel and gold. Each model is presented on an integrated black or blue rubber strap, or a traditional metal bracelet —with a new ergonomic design and a patented extendable fold over rack-and-pusher with diver extension.
Things to Know About the Watch
Now sized at 42 mm, every design detail has been rethought, including a new ceramic bezel with the diving scale in Ceragold or white enamel. Powering the watches is the Master Chronometer Calibre 8800, instantly taking the collection into a higher realm of precision, performance and magnetic resistance. The sleek dials are made from ceramic and are available in black, blue or PVD chrome color. The popular wave pattern has been reintroduced —now laser-engraved— and the indexes have been raised and filled with superluminova. Even the skeleton hands have been subtly reshaped.
For the new Omega Diver 300M Collection even the helium release valve has been redesigned to have a conical shape. The new shape is more appealing and easier to manipulate.
Additionally, in order to create an even greater level of contrast and wow factor, the new Omega Diver 300M in its two-tone version includes touches of 18K Sedna gold as present on the crown, bezel insert, helium escape valve, bracelet center links, the hands and dial markers.
For the stainless steel models, everything maintains the same color scheme of stainless steel. Additionally, the date aperture has been moved to the 6 o'clock position for a more balanced layout.
The Movement
Turning the watch over reveals a wave-patterned edge on the case back with display sapphire crystal. Powering the watch is the automatic Master Co-Axial 8800 calibre. This movement that is certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology —METAS— is a self-winding 35-jewel movement that provides a power reserve of 55 hours when fully wound while beating at a frequency of 25,200 vph. Additionally the movement is anti-magnetic to magnetic fields of up to 15,000 gauss and the watch is water resistant to 300 meters.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the watch wears very nicely but smaller than its actual size. Had this watch been released at 45 mm it would be a total home run. The new dials are really nice as well as the upgraded bezels and case backs. For the money, not a bad starter watch.
Sticker Price $4,750 USD for stainless steel on rubber strap and $6,150 USD for two-tone also on rubber strap. For more info on Omega click here.
