Long a supporter of green charities, Omega backed a a number of initiatives, including the GoodPlanet Foundation and two island conservation projects in Indonesia. The latest is a partnership with Nekton, a non-profit oceanic research institute that is working on projects in the Indian Ocean.

To inaugurate the partnership, Omega has unveiled the Seamaster Diver 300M Nekton Edition, a pared-back take on its bestselling dive watch that features a matte titanium bezel insert instead of the usual glossy ceramic.

The Seamaster 2 submersible operated by Nekton

Initial thoughts

More monochromatic than the typical Seamaster, the Nekton edition has an elegant yet sporty look that sets it apart from its ceramic counterparts. The titanium bezel is good looking, with the raised, polished minute markers contrasting well against the granular base. And it’s matched with a matte ceramic dial featuring red accents – always a good combination on a dive watch. That said, the look resembles the Rolex Yacht-Master in platinum and steel.

Though finished differently, the materials used aren’t substantially more valuable, and neither is the Nekton a limited edition. But it still costs about US$1,000 over the standard model, making it less compelling in terms of pricing. Still, the watch is arguably good value relative to the competition, especially considering the solid technical features, namely as the Master Chronometer-certified and highly magnetism-resistant movement.

Submersible-inspired

Nekton’ First Descent programme started in 2019, and resumes in 2021 with Omega’s support. First Descent will use a submersible – christened Seamaster 2 in honour of the boat owned by late sailor and conservationist Sir Peter Blake – to explore the depths of the Indian Ocean.

Taking its cues from the black-and-red livery of the submersible, the Seamaster Nekton edition features a subtly redesigned dial. Most notable is the removal of date window, creating perfect dial symmetry. Also interesting is the use of a matte black dial, a first for the first Seamaster Diver 300M, that features a glossy, engraved wave motif.

The properly-aligned back

The display case back found on the standard model is swapped for a solid back that features an embossed submersible. The motif on the back makes full use of Omega’s proprietary case back sealing mechanism, a bayonet-type screw back known as Naiad-Lock, which ensures the submersible is always upright.

Underneath the back is the cal. 8806, which is basically a no-date version of the cal. 8800 found in most Seamaster 300M models. Featuring silicon hairspring, the watch boasts an impressive magnetism resistance of 15,000 gauss.

As with the cal. 8800, the cal. 8806 has a full balance bridge with a free-sprung balance, enhancing the stability of timekeeping. And the movement is regulated to Omega’s Master Chronometer standard, which means maximum deviation between zero and +5 seconds per day.

Key Facts and Price

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Nekton Edition
Ref.210.32.42.20.01.002 (Rubber strap)
Ref. 210.30.42.20.01.002 (Steel bracelet)

Diameter: 42 mm
Height: Unavailable
Material: Steel case with titanium bezel
Water resistance: 300 m

Movement: Cal. 8806
Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 25,200 beats per hour (3.5 hz)
Power reserve: 55 hours

Strap: Rubber strap or steel bracelet

Availability: Starting October 2020
Price:
US$5,850; or S$8,550 (rubber strap)
US$6,150; or S$9,050 (steel bracelet)

For more, visit omegawatches.com