Watch Review: Omega Seamaster Diver 300M
I am not a big dive watch guy. Aside from the Seamaster my only other one is a green “Hulk” Rolex Submariner, and generally I wear it only for swimming. However I appreciate the aesthetic and can understand why the Submariner is one of the most iconic watches in the world. I opted for the green version because the black dial sub has been copied/homaged to death and felt a bit “basic bitch” for my taste. For the Seamaster however, I had to go black dial. Unlike it’s green friend the Seamaster doesn’t need that splash of color to differentiate itself.
The Seamaster boasts a number of divisive elements that make it unique among divers. The skeletonized hands, the unusual bezel knurling, the helium escape valve, the six o’clock date, the display caseback, the wave dial — I have heard complaints from watch nerd friends about all of these features, many going so far as to say that but for one of these details they would have bought the watch themselves. Personally I love every single one of these choices. What’s more I love Omega’s willingness to craft their own design language and build a unique look that has come to define even the great James Bond.
The Seamaster isn’t just a pretty face though. Boasting METAS certification it outcompetes the Submariner on specs while costing less and being much easier to buy. The movement is extremely accurate, shock resistant, antimagnetic, and beautifully finished. I adore the display caseback. When I’m not zoning out staring at that gorgeous black ceramic dial, I find myself scrutinizing the little touches on the movement. It may not be ‘haute’ level but it’s still a lovely piece of machinery worthy of being put on show.
Rounding it out is that bracelet — another divisive element with its mix of brushed and polished surfaces. It’s a good bit more sparkle and complexity when compared to an oyster, yet it works well in my eyes. The extra pizazz helps dress it up while not undermining its utility. The clasp is great too. While not as satisfying as that classic double clamshell lock, the microadjust is comparable to a glidelock and the twin trigger system is very easy to use.
For all of its rich features and details the Seamaster is kind of the “meat and potatoes” watch of my collection, and I love it for that. It’s a grab and go watch that you never need to baby. It looks great in swim trunks or a tuxedo (thank you Daniel Craig) and puts far more expensive watches to shame in terms of its performance. Every collection needs a piece like this one.
