Omega’s Novel Take on the Seamaster Diver 300M for Paris 2024 Olympics
Starting the countdown to the games.As the Summer Olympics in Paris approach, Omega introduces a special edition of the Seamaster Diver 300M. Limited editions for the event are a given, but this latest Olympic edition is dressed in unusual livery for a Seamaster. The brand’s Moonshine Gold alloy is used for bezel, while the dial is bright white ceramic.
Initial thoughts
Considering Omega’s long association with the Olympics stretches back 91 years, the number of limited editions for the games is numerous. Many were regrettably rather mundane in design, featuring the customary dial colour changes and Olympic markings. However, this particular edition stands out with its lighter tones, a departure from the typically dark hues of Omega’s dive watches, which was also the usual look of previous Olympic editions.
And because this is an Omega, the colours are as much about aesthetics as materials. One aspect that particularly appeals in this release is the Moonshine Gold bezel. The golden insert complements the white ceramic dial and the stainless steel case and bracelet. This gives the watch a sense of visual luxury, making it different from the typical diver special edition without being gimmicky, which arguably gives it more longevity in terms of style.
The price of this special edition stands at US$8,700, notably higher than the standard steel model, which is rationalised by the gold bezel no doubt. It will only be available, for the moment, at Omega boutiques in Paris. That said, the brand has not yet disclosed the number of pieces in the edition, creating uncertainty about how limited the edition is, which will be relevant to would-be buyers who like the limited nature of a limited edition (even if it is Omega-style limitation, which is usually in the thousands).
Not a mere special edition
Having held the position of the official timekeeper of the Olympics since 1932, Omega reinterpreted various current models as commemorative editions for the Games, while also introducing vintage-inspired remakes based on historical models.
This Olympic edition is based on the standard Seamaster Diver 300M, which was revamped in 2018. The watch features a straightforward three-hand design and the characteristic scalloped bezel but upgraded with an insert of 18k Moonshine Gold, Omega’s exclusive pale-yellow gold alloy. The diving scale on the bezel is in relief, achieved via laser engraving.
The dial features a laser-engraved wave pattern that pays homage to the original model from the 1990s. It also has date window at six o’clock (though the date is not present in some higher-end models), but the date is no ordinary date: the typeface on the date disc has been changed to match the official typography of the 2024 games.
The exhibition case back of the standard model has been replaced with a solid back featuring a medallion made from the same gold alloy that bears the emblem of the Paris Olympics. And because the case back is secured by the brand’s patented Naiad-Lock, a bayonet-locking system, the case back will always be in correct, upright orientation.
The steel case incorporates Omega’s latest “Quick Release” system for the bracelet, which allows for easy removal and swapping with a strap. Apart from the bracelet release mechanism, the case remains consistent with the standard model. It is the same size at 42 mm in diameter and 13.7 mm high.
It’s equipped with the cal. 8800, a METAS-certified movement featuring a full balance bridge with a free-sprung balance that enhances timekeeping stability. The movement is tested to Omega’s Master Chronometer standard, ensuring a maximum deviation of between zero and +5 seconds per day.
Key facts and price
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Co-Axial Master Chronometer 42 MM “Paris 2024”
Ref. 522.21.42.20.04.001
Diameter: 42 mm
Height: 13.7 mm
Material: Steel with 18k Moonshine Gold bezel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 300 m
Movement: Cal. 8800
Features: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
Frequency: 25,200 beats per hour (3.5 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 55 hours
Strap: Steel bracelet with folding clasp
Limited edition: To be announced
Availability: Only at Omega boutiques in Paris
Price: US$8,700
For more information, visit Omegawatches.com.
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