Omega Seamaster 300 iN 2021
Although true diving enthusiasts might prefer the “Seamaster Diver 300M” for their aquatic ventures, those firmly planted on land should consider the classier vintage-inspired “Seamaster 300”. This model was relaunched in 2014 to represent the original “Seamaster 300”, circa 1957. But many purists didn’t find the resemblance properly adequate enough, so Omega has returned to market with a revamped version for 2021. The 41mm case is made of stainless-steel, but with a noticeably thinner 13.85 mm depth compared to the previous 15 mm of the 2014 edition. Much of these compressed measurements are due to the thinner bezel and a new domed sapphire glass.Mounted to the case at first glance is a very similar steel bezel with a riveted circumference. But instead of a ceramic bezel insert identical to most of the current Omega dive watches, this model features an aluminium insert to properly mimic the vintage original. It may be a thinner bezel, but the innovative craftsmanship of an oxalic, anodized treated aluminium actually provides an increased hardness. The 60-minute scale seen here has also been fully lumed.
On the flip-side is an exhibition case back, which allows to view the inner workings of the mechanical movement. This modern METAS-certified caliber comes equipped with a silicon balance spring and non-magnetic escapement. The screw-on portion also features the “Master Co-Axial Chronometer” inscription that until now was usually displayed on the dial side.It also comes equipped with long protruding lugs for a comfortable wrist fit, plus a screw-in setting-crown with an embossed Ω.All topped by the new domed sapphire crystal and a water-resistance capable of reaching up to 300 meters (1000 feet).Time is exhibited on a redesigned black or blue “sandwich” dial with faux-aged hour index markers and the Arabic numerals (3, 6, 9 and 12), for an instant “vintage” look, followed by a ring of thin white printed minute markings.As aforementioned Omega has designed the dial with a closer resemblance to its original 1950s aesthetics.This timepiece also features Omega’s iconic broad arrow hands in stainless-steel. These central hands, plus the hour index markers have all been filled with a blue Super-LumiNova, except for the contrasting green glow of the minute hand, for an enhanced legibility.Overall its a very solid and legible dial stripped down to bare essentials by removing the “Master Co-Axial Chronometer” inscription, while still retaining the “OMEGA” logo and “Seamaster 300” with its characteristic cursive font. An added bonus is the return of the iconic “lollipop” seconds hand, guiding our view around and around, as “eye candy” is meant to do.
Omega Seamaster 300
The “Omega Seamaster 300 Co-Axial Master Chronometer” (References below) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 8912 with 38 jewels and 25,200 Vph. In essence this is a no-date version of caliber 8900 and it is also a METAS-certified Master chronometer. Power reserve on this watch can last up to 60 hours, when fully wound. Mounted to the watch is either a dark or light brown leather strap; or a stainless-steel bracelet for an additional price. Omega claims this bracelet offers better integration by being more ergonomic than the earlier generation; while aesthetically instead of polishing the center-links, they have a brushed finish that contrasts with the polished outer links. These watches will become available at stores from April 2021. For more up to date information visit the official Omega website here.