BENEATH THE SURFACE – Omega presents the newest Seamaster Diver 300M with advanced materials, updated designs and, most recently, a new campaign starring 007
Omega’s Seamaster Professional Diver 300m watch has had quite a loyal following since way back—1993, to be exact. Loved for its design and admired for its technical prowess, the original model signaled Omega’s triumphant return to the world of diving watches and also ignited the brand’s long-standing partnership with the one and only agent 007, James Bond.
Speaking of which, Omega’s latest campaign for this particular collection features a dapper but drenched Daniel Craig, who went swimming in a Bond’s signature tuxedo to promote the watch’s adaptability. As for the Seamaster Diver 300M itself, Omega unveiled a complete facelift this storied model earlier this year at Baselworld. Fourteen unique models have been added to the family, including six in stainless steel and eight in a heady mix of stainless steel and gold that definitely caught everybody’s attention.
A Fresh Twist
It goes without saying that a divers’ watch needs to have a display that can be seen clearly underwater, even in murky and gloomy conditions. On the new 300m, all 12 indexes and hands have been coated with SuperLumiNova to keep them visible in darkness. On top of that, the iconic diving bezel has been given a fresh design with a luminescent dot at 12 o’clock and is now made from ceramic with the diving scale in Ceragold or white enamel.
Meanwhile, for the Diver 300m’s helium escape valve (essentially a decompression system which allows helium to escape from inside the watch when the watch is worn for deep dives; it is one of the most important details that pro divers would look at) has been given a conical shape and enhanced with a newly patented piece of ingenious technology. The latter ensures that the watch will retain water resistance of up to 5 bar even if the helium escape valve is accidentally opened while under water.
A Full Makeover
Turning the Seamaster Diver 300m over presents a wave-patterned edge on the caseback, as well as a sapphire crystal which gives us a glimpse of the Master Chronometer Calibre 8800. This movement essentially takes the collection into a higher realm of precision, performance and magnetic resistance.
To earn the Master Chronometer label a watch and its movement must endure eight stringent tests approved by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). The watch is tested for, among others, resistance to external environmental factors like magnetism, shock, temperature and immersion in water. Performed over the course of 10 days, these replicate real-life wearing conditions and beyond. Most notably, the master chronometer-certified Seamaster Diver 300m demonstrates resistance to magnetic fields of up to 15,000 gauss—stronger than a hospital-grade MRI machine.
The dials, meanwhile, are made from polished ceramic and are available in black, blue or sun-brushed PVD chrome. Omega has also reintroduced the wavy pattern—now laser engraved—that was a popular feature of the original design. The date window has been moved to 6 o’clock while the skeleton hands have been subtly reshaped.
Finally, each model in the new Seamaster Diver 300m collection is presented with an optional metal bracelet or integrated black or blue rubber strap. It’s worth noting that the metal bracelets feature a new ergonomic design.
New Personality
All in all, Omega has managed to give the new Seamaster Diver 300m collection several exciting design twists along with the famed Master Chronometer upgrade that offers impressive levels of precision and performance. And, of course, an added edge in terms of style.
Finally, as encapsulated by the new campaign with Daniel Craig, the Seamaster Diver 300m is a watch that can accompany you to the most formal of events or to the depths of the ocean. It beautifully maintains the balance between sophistication and its maritime spirit, thereby becoming the ultimate must-have for diving enthusiasts and gentlemen looking to channel their inner Bond.
For further information, head on over to www.omegawatches.com.
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