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Seamaster FAQ
How far back does the Seamaster line go?
OMEGA's line of water resistant watches dates all the way back to 1932. The Seamaster name
was introduced in 1947. Up through the 1960's, the Seamaster models paralleled the traditional
style of dress watches, such as the OMEGA DeVille (some were even labeled as a 'Seamaster
DeVille'). While these watches were water resistant (back then, they could still use the term 'waterproof'), few had functions other than basic display of the time and occasionally the date.
In the 1970's, OMEGA took the Seamaster line in a much sportier and often trendier direction.
During this decade, Seamasters took on a heavy sport and functional look and came with more
diver-oriented features, such as higher depth ratings, calibrated rotating bezels, chronograph
functions, and high-visibility dials.
OMEGA's current Seamaster line consists of the Seamaster Aqua Terra with 150 meter water
resistance and the Seamaster Professional series (introduced in 1993) with 300 meter water
resistance and diving-oriented features in a sports watch style. Other recent and generally still
available models include the Seamaster 120 series with 120 meter water-resistance in a dress
watch style.
The Seamaster is a diving watch, so why is the name also used on dress watches?
At the time the Seamaster was introduced in 1948, standard watches were extremely susceptible
to water damage from even a dip in a sink or tub. The Seamaster was created as a line of standard
dress-style watches which were 'waterproof' (as they called them then) suitable for swimming and
other light water activities. Their water resistance then is about comparable to a 10 to 30 meter
rating today. The now common diver's watch style was unknown at that time.
Ten years later in 1958 Rolex introduced the Submariner, really starting the popular market for the
sports/diving style of watch (though other brands did have such watches even earlier). A few years
later, OMEGA added the comparable sportier models that were designed for even deeper water
activities like diving that need a rating of 100 to 300 meters. They maintained the Seamaster name
because of their water resistant designs. This split the Seamaster line of water resistant watches
into both classic dressy and more rugged sporty styles.
That continues today, with the Seamaster Aqua Terra series being the direct descendant of the
classic dressy Seamaster DeVille. Great for people who usually need a dressy watch, but still like
to go for a swim. The Seamaster Professional is the sportier variation with additional features and
deeper depth ratings needed by people involved with more serious underwater activities like
diving--and those that are not diving professionals, but still enjoy the ruggest sporty styling.
Today, every watch OMEGA makes has at least as much water resistance as those early
Seamasters did. So those vintage Seamasters might seem wimpy by modern standards--but when
you understand the history, they were a significant step in the evolution of water resistant watches.
What different Seamaster watches are available?
OMEGA currently makes several models of Seamaster watches, with numerous sub variations of
color, bracelet, movement, and casing sizes. As of early 2004, the main Seamaster models in
production are:
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Seamaster Professional Diver (automatic and quartz movements; also sometimes known
as the 300M; available in a full size mens, mid size mens, and ladies models). The mens
models come in two different dial/hands styles: the classic "skeleton hand" introduced in
1993 and the bolder "GMT style" introduced in 1998.
Seamaster Professional Chronograph (automatic movement only, very large and heavy
watch, available in titanium, mens size only)
Seamaster Professional GMT (Introduced late 1998, automatic movement, mens size only,
mens size only) variation of the 300M with an additional GMT hand and a different look to
the face and bezel
2000 model year Seamaster line introduces many new models, all with the new dial design
introduced on the GMT and Titanium Diver.
Seamaster Aqua Terra (introduced 2003, in mens and ladies versions) Coaxial or quartz
movements. Available in three mens's sizes (35, 38 and 41mm) as well as ladies models.
Railmaster (special variation of the Aqua Terra, paying homage to the watch that inspired
the Aqua Terra series). Coaxial movement only. Available in 38, 41 and 49.2mm sizes.
Seamaster America's Cup Chronograph
Seamaster APNEA (special model with a unique timing function for the apnea free-diving
breathing technique)
Recently retired Seamaster models include:
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Seamaster 200M OMEGA-matic (battery-less quartz movement, mens size only)
Seamaster 120M (same movements as the Seamaster Professional Diver, available in
mens and ladies)
Seamaster '150th Anniversary Limited Edition' released in 1998 with titanium case, silver
dial, white gold bezel, and was limited to 1848 pieces.
Seamaster 'James Bond 40th Anniversary Limited Edition' -- releasted in 2002. Essentially
the classic 2531.80, but with 007 logos on the dial and clasp, limited to 10,007 pieces.
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For details on these limited editions and several rare and special editions of the recent Seamaster
models. See the Seamaster Photo Gallery for more details on these.
2004 suggested retail prices in the USA on these watches are in the $1,500 to $3,500 range for
stainless steel versions. Up to $20,000 for solid gold versions -- except the Skeleton which
reportedly sold for around $44,000. International pricing is based on many factors besides simply
the currency exchange rate, so see a dealer in your specific country of interest for local pricing.
Which are the most popular Seamaster models?
OMEGA reports that as of 1999, the most popular variations of the Seamaster Professional Diver
worldwide are the:
1. First, the full-sized James Bond automatic 2531.80
2. Second, Mid-size quartz
3. Followed by the full-sized quartz and Mid-Size automatic
Exact popularity varies by geographic location. For example, the mid-sized in more popular in the
Far East, while the full-sized is more popular in Europe and North America.
How do I translate OMEGA's model numbers?
Current OMEGA model numbers follow a mostly straightforward convention. A model number,
such as 2831.80.08, can be interpreted digit by digit. The following list covers only the variations
for the Seamaster Professional, GMT, and Professional Chronograph watches. Other OMEGA
lines use the same sequence, but the numbers represent different options. Even here, you will see
odd variations between some of the codes for the Chronograph versus the Pro. Newer variations,
like the 1998 Titanium Pro Diver and the GMT also get designated somewhat less obviously. Only
certain combinations of these options are available.
How to read OMEGA Seamaster model numbers
for the Aqua Terra, Professional Diver, GMT, and
Chronograph
Warning: Codes are not used consistently by OMEGA, use this table only as a rough
guide
1 Product
2
Case /
Bracelet
3 Size /
2=Seamaster
1=Gold (yellow or white), 2=Steel (Pro 2000 bracelet) OR Titanium
(Chronograph), 3=Stainless Steel and Gold, 5=Stainless Steel (Pro Diver,
GMT, or Chrono) or Titanium (Pro Diver), 6=Red Gold w/Strap (Pro Diver),
8=Stainless Steel w/Strap, 9=Seamaster Pro 2000 w/Strap, 0=Seamaster
Pro 2000 w/alternate bracelet (USA)
Size/movement codes are not consistent, especially with the new models
Movement
introduced in 2000.
0=Coaxial, 3=Pro Diver full-size Automatic or GMT Automatic, 4=Pro Diver
full size Quartz, 5=Pro Diver mid size Automatic, 6=Pro Diver mid size
Quartz, 7=Ladies Auto, 8=Ladies Quartz, 9=Chronograph Automatic
4 Bezel
Bezel codes are not consistent by color - they vary by model and case
material.
1=Blue (Steel Pro) OR Gold (Gold Pro) OR Brushed Steel (Titanium Pro
Diver), 2=Polished Steel (Steel Pro) OR Gold (Two-Tone Pro) OR Blue (Gold
Pro) OR Polished White Gold (white Gold Pro, silver dial limited edition 150th
Anniv. Pro) 3=Plain (Aqua Terra), Steel w/black numbers (Titanium Diver)
4=Black (Steel GMT or Steel Pro) OR Yellow Gold (Yellow Gold GMT),
5=Steel w/blue numbers (Steel Diver), 6=Gold (Titanium/Tantalum
Chronograph), 8=Polished Steel (Steel Chronograph or GMT) OR Gold
(Two-Tone Chronograph) OR Blue (Titanium Chronograph), 9=Blue (Steel
Chronograph)
5 Dial
2=White, 3=Silver, 5=Black, 7=Special (such as Mother-of-pearl), 8=Blue
(dark or electric)
6 Option
Currently used for miscellaneous options.
3=Blue hands (Aqua Terra), 4=Gold hands on steel model (Aqua Terra)
7 Option
0=undeclared, 3=Foldover clasp for strap models, 9=Rubber strap
8 Option
0 or not shown=standard bracelet, 1=rubber strap with steel clasp (Pro
Diver) or black alligator strap (Aqua Terra), 3=rubber strap with non-steel
clasp, 7=brown alligator strap (Aqua Terra), 8=blue sharkskin strap (Pro
Diver), 9=green sharkskin strap (Pro Diver)
So, a model 2831.80.08 is a full-size Seamaster Professional, stainless steel case, with blue bezel
and dial, on the optional blue sharkskin strap.
Should I choose the automatic (mechanical) or quartz movement?
Many of the Men's Seamaster watches offer both automatic (self-winding mechanical) and quartz
movements. The Ladies' Seamaster Professional is available only with the quartz movement,
except for one solid gold model introduced in 2000. The Seamaster Professional Chronograph,
Seamaster GMT, and titanium Seamaster Professionals are available only with automatic
movements.
There are many opinions on the subject as to which movement is better. But since they are all
opinions -- your choice should be made based on what works best for you. Also, there are several
feature (and a few minor cosmetic) differences between the automatic and quartz movement
versions of the Seamaster Professional.
Seamaster Aqua Terra and Railmaster (OMEGA Coaxial movements)
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Auto-winding mechanical movement with exclusive OMEGA Coaxial Escapement and Free
Sprung Balance, 44-hour power reserve.
Sweep second hand (moves in 1/8 second increments).
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Movement has received a Chronometer certificate from COSC, certifying that the
mechanism is capable of accuracy within -4 to +6 seconds per day.
Quick-set date and rapid date change. The date can be advanced easily from the stem.
The date changes shortly after 12:00 midnight, clicking forward in a fraction of a second.
The 2403 used in the Railmaster is essentially the same, but lacks the date function.
Seamaster Professional Automatic (OMEGA #1120 automatic movement, also used in the
Seamaster 120M)
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Auto-winding mechanical movement with 23 jewels and a 44-hour power reserve.
Sweep second hand (moves in 1/8 second increments).
Movement has received a Chronometer certificate from COSC, certifying that the
mechanism is capable of accuracy within -4 to +6 seconds per day.
Quick-set date and rapid date change. The date can be advanced easily from the stem.
The date changes shortly after 12:00 midnight, clicking forward in a fraction of a second.
Cosmetic differences versus the quartz model: The automatic's dial has the word
'Chronometer' under 'Seamaster Professional' -- indicating it has a COSC certified
chronometer movement. The date window on the automatic is somewhat closer to the outer
edge of the dial, due to a difference in the date mechanisms used by its movement.
The Seamaster Pro Chronograph and Seamaster GMT use different automatic movements, so
have some feature differences:
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The GMT has an additional hour hand on a 24-hour scale. This is usually used to represent
GMT or your 'home' time.
The GMT's 12-hour hand can be easily adjusted in increments of whole hours ahead or
behind the 24-hour hand. This allows an easy time zone change without altering the
minutes or seconds.
The GMT lacks the quick-set date.
The Chronograph has the additional chronograph features.
Seamaster Professional Quartz (same movement used in the Ladies' Seamaster Pro and
Seamaster 120M Quartz)
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Jump second hand (moves in 1-second increments).
Quartz movement runs on batteries.
Highly accurate.
Slow date change -- date rolls over slowly between 12:00 midnight and 1:00 am.
Low battery indication (second hand jumps in 4-second increments).
Cryptically labeled "time-zone" feature. What it really means is that from the stem, you can
change the hour hand without altering the minute or seconds. Convenient for changing
time-zones or moving on or off daylight savings time without having to resync the second
hand with an accurate time source.
What is the accuracy of Seamaster watches?
If you haven't yet bought an expensive wristwatch, read the topic 'An expensive watch is more
accurate, right?' in the accompanying Fine Wristwatch FAQ.
The Seamaster automatic models have received a Chronometer certificate from COSC. This
certifies that the movement measured within -4 to +6 seconds of variation per day. Like most fine
watch makers, OMEGA does not bother to certify their quartz models.
Many owners on the Internet have reported their Seamasters often far exceed COSC standards in
daily use. Reports of automatics staying within +/-3 seconds per day and quartz staying within +/-3
seconds per month are not uncommon. This makes the Seamaster Professional one of the better
choices for a highly accurate wristwatch. Each watch is different. Mechanical watches are much
more prone to variation based on how you wear and store them. Because of this, the differing
variations of a mechanical watch tend to cancel each other out somewhat, making the watches
usually much more accurate than the single-day allowed variations may make it seem.
Overall, since many of us have to reset our watches twice a year to comply with daylight saving
time or other local time changes, if your watch stays within 1 minute of correct time between those
changes, you should have a watch that is more than sufficiently accurate for normal use.
Where is the serial number?
The serial number on most current OMEGA Seamaster models is laser etched in very small type
on the back of the lug closest to the 7 o'clock position on the watch. Some newer Titanium models
have it on the back of the lug closest to the 11 o'clock position. OMEGA reports that they do not
always put the serial number in the same place.
If you know where to look, you can see that a number is there with the naked eye. You will
probably need a magnifier to actually read the number. Serial numbers, except on particularly old
models are 8 digits long. The OMEGA serial series are different -- different models and model lines
use different counting sequences. For OMEGA watches made within the most recent decade,
automatic Chronometer models usually start with a 4, 6 or 8 while quartz and non-chronometer
models usually start with a 5. Only serial numbers starting with the same two digits are
comparable. They are issued to the movements when manufactured, so do not represent a perfect
chronological sequence of when the finished watches roll off the assembly line.
Are there any unusual or special models of the Seamaster?
OMEGA has made several special and limited edition models of Seamaster watches within the
past few years. See the Seamaster Photo Gallery for details and photos of them.
How has the Seamaster Professional changed over the years?
The "Professional" series of Seamaster watches was introduced in 1988. Since then, the line has
undergone several transformations.
First generation (1988): 200M water resistance; rotating bezel with
toothed outer edge; Second hand with dot, hour hand has the
'Mercedes'-like symbol, just like the Rolex Explorer. Minute hand is a
widening stick with pointed tip. Crown was very gear-shaped. Metal
bracelet integrated into the watch, with Rolex-like folding clasp but
with additional flip lock safety. Available in all steel and two-tone
models, with both quartz and automatic versions. Black appears to
have been the only option for dial and bezel color on the all steel
models. Steel and gold models appear to have had either black or
gold dials. Dial labeled 'Seamaster PROFESSIONAL 200M.'
Seamaster Professional Diver 200M, circa
1988 [photo: Mike Partee]
Second generation (1992?): Essentially the same as first generation,
except for revised hands. Hour hand now a simple stick, minute a
simpler straight stick, crown has a finer milling on the edge instead
of hte earlier gear-shape. Around this time, OMEGA also made a
titanium chronograph that matched the Seamaster Professional 200,
but was not labeled as a specifically water-resistant watch and did
not bear the Seamaster name.
Seamaster Professional Diver 200M quartz,
circa 1992 [photo: Richard]
Seamaster Professional Diver 300M
automatic, circa 1997 [photo: OMEGA]
Third generation (1993, unofficially called the 'James Bond' version):
New case shape with more defined curves; larger crown guards;
helium relief valve; outer edge of bezel now smooth sculpted;
completely new bracelet style - no longer integrated into the case;
strap options on steel models; new fold-lock bracelet with release
buttons on sides; new skeletonized hands and red tip on second
hand. Additional pips on bezel markings between the 15 and 60
markers. Depth rating increased to 300M. Dial now has wave
patterned background, markings mostly unchanged except for new
300m/1000ft depth rating. Chronograph version now water-resistant
and officially part of the Seamaster line. Black dial/bezel dropped,
new colors are: blue and white dials with several matching or
coordinating bezel colors.
Fourth generation (1998): The Pro Diver in Titanium and its
companion '150th Anniversary Limited Edition' was introduced with a
new style, but without changing any of the existing models in the
Seamaster Professional line. New dial and hands design. Dial has
even more distinct hour markers. Skeleton hands dropped in favor of
easier to see in dark hands like on first generation Seamaster
Professional. Bolder numbering on bezel. New dial colors: semielectric blue and silver.
Seamaster Professional Diver 300M in
Titanium, 1998 [photo: Derek Ziglar]
Seamaster Professional Diver 300M, 2000
[photo: OMEGA]
Fifth generation (2000): The new dial style was extended across
more models in the Seamaster Professional line for new models
introduced in the year 2000--but as a supplement to, not as a
replacement for, the classic skeleton-hand "Bond" style models.
Biggest surprise was OMEGA adding a new style bracelet. Originally
intended to replace the "Bond" bracelet on almost all models,
OMEGA's USA and South American distributors rejected the
change, so in those areas, the existing Seamaster bracelet link style
was still available and usually the default choice on most models.
The newer Seamaster bracelet uses a link style virtually identical to
that on the Speedmaster -- an intentional move by OMEGA with the
intent of unifying the look of their sport watch lines.
How can I tell the Seamaster Pro fullsize, midsize, automatic and quartz models
apart?
The numerous variations in the Seamaster Professional Diver models can be hard to tell apart. The
features on the two men's sizes available on the Seamaster Professional Diver are both scaled to
not appear significantly different. The mid-size even uses a slightly narrower bracelet (18mm
instead of 20mm) and a somewhat smaller clasp to keep the whole watch looking the same.
So, how can you tell them apart? First, there is a visual difference in the position of the date
window between the quartz and automatic movements. The date window on the quartz movement
is a millimeter or so closer to the center of the dial. Second, the smaller case on the mid size
means the right edge of the date window will be about 1.5 millimeters closer to the edge of the dial
than it is on the full size case.
Combined, these two factors give a different position of the date window on each of the four case
size/movement variations on this watch.
The easiest part is to tell the
movement. The automatic models have
four lines of text on the lower half of the
dial -- including the word
CHRONOMETER as the third line. The
quartz models have only three, lacking
the word CHRONOMETER.
To tell the case sizes apart, look at the
marker at the 3 o'clock position. The
mid size have little to no room for a
marker to the right of the date window.
But the full size have room for a
moderate to large marker.
What are the features of the Seamaster Professional?
The Men's Seamaster Professional full and mid-size watches have:
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Highly visible hands and dial markers with large fluorescent marks.
Rotating bezel with fluorescent marker.
Case contoured around the stem to protect it from being hit.
Sapphire crystal, highly resistant to scratching.
Rated for use at depths of up to 300 meters (1000 feet). The Seamaster Pro Chronograph
is one of only a few watches where the buttons are sufficiently water resistant that you can
use the chronograph features underwater.
Manual date change from stem without altering the time setting. (Not on the GMT.)
Models with metal bracelet have a special clasp that opens the bracelet an additional inch
or so to fit over the outside of a diving suit. (Not on the GMT.)
'Helium relief valve' -- a feature only needed if you are in an extended stay in a helium-rich
diving bell environment. This is probably useful to only 0.0001% of the owners of this
watch. (Not on the GMT and certain other models.)
Features Based on Watch Movement
OMEGA
1120*
Automatic
OMEGA
2520
Automatic
OMEGA
1438
Quartz
OMEGA
1424
Quartz
OMEGA
1164**
Automatic
OMEGA
1128***
Automatic
Used in:
Seamaster
Models
120 Auto,
Pro Diver
Auto
Ladies Pro
Auto
120
Quartz,
Pro
Quartz
Ladies
Pro,
Ladies
120
Chronograph
GMT
Based on:
ETA
2892A2
ETA?
ETA?
ETA?
ETA/Valjoux
7750
ETA
2892A2
23
20
6
7
25
23
Jewels:
Second
Hand:
Sweep 1/8 Sweep 1/8
sec
sec
Jump 1
sec
Jump 1
sec
Sweep 1/8
sec
Sweep 1/8
sec
Date
Change:
Rapid
???
Gradual
Gradual
Gradual
Gradual
Date Set:
Quick Set
???
Quick
Set
Fwd 24
hours
Quick Set
Fwd 24
hours
* The OMEGA 1120 was introduced in 1996 to replace the 21 jewel OMEGA 1109 used in the
earlier Seamaster Professionals. See the Seamaster Pro Troubleshooter for more details on this
change.
** The OMEGA 1164 replaced the OMEGA 1154 in 1992. The 1164 is essentially the same
movement, merely with cosmetic changes to 'personalize' it with OMEGA markings instead of the
generic ETA markings.
*** The OMEGA 1128 is essentially the OMEGA 1120 with the addition of the 24-hour GMT hand,
but lacking the quick set date.
These same ETA and Valjoux base movements are used in watches ranging from half to several
times the price of a Seamaster. But each watch manufacturer varies in how much they modify,
retest, or certify the movement before putting them into their watches. OMEGA makes a number of
their own modifications to these already high quality movements and then has the automatic ones
C.O.S.C. certified before incorporating them into OMEGA watches.
The original ETA 2892 movement was introduced in 1975. The current version is the 2892-A2. This
movement is used as the basis of numerous fine watches from companies such as Alain
Silberstein, Baume & Mercier, Cartier, Chronoswiss, Fortis, Longines, OMEGA, Sinn, TAG-Heuer,
and Ulysse Nardin.
The Valjoux 7750 has been a similarly popular movement since its introduction in 1973. It is used
as the basis of many chronographs from companies including Baume & Mercier, Breitling, Fortis,
Franck Muller, Longines, Minerva, OMEGA, Oris, and Universal Genève.
Features Based on Watch Model
Seamaster
Pro Diver
(mens)
Model Numbers:
Diameter
Official* / Bezel:
(See notes below)
in millimeters
Thickness
in millimeters
Weight:**
in grams
Seamaster
Seamaster
Seamaster
Seamaster
Pro Diver
120
GMT
Chronograph
(titanium)
(mens)
2x3x 2x4x
2x5x 2x6x
2232.30
2231.80
2x34
2x0x 2x1x
2x9x
Full 39.3/41
Mid 34.8/36
39.3/41
39.3/41
34.8/36
39.3/42
Full 11.5
Mid 11
11.8
11.8
9
16.3
SS Full 150
SS Mid 130
Full 111
Mid ?
~167
?
SS 208
Ti ?
Watch Cases:***
SS, SS/G,
G
Ti, R
SS
SS, SS/G,
G
SS, SS/G, G,
Ti, TT
Bracelets/Straps:***
SS, SS/G,
G, L
Ti
SS, R
SS, SS/G,
G
SS, SS/G, G,
Ti, TT, L
Pin release,
1"
Expansion
Pin
release,
1"
Expansion
1-pin
release
Hidden
clasp
Yes
Yes
No
Bracelet Clasp:
Helium Valve:
Pin
Pin release,
release,
1"
1" Expansion
Expansion
No
Yes
* OMEGA's method of measuring the watch's diameter is across the BACK of the watch, starting betweent he top lugs and measuring down to
between the bottom lugs. Other people often measure across the bezel--causing confusing reporting of two different sizes for the same watch.
But either method does not include protuberances such as the crown, crown guards, helium valve, or lugs.
** Weights are approximate and include standard bracelet. Actual weight varies based on number of links removed when bracelet is sized.
*** SS=Stainless Steel, SS/G=Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold, G=Yellow Gold, Ti=Titanium, TT=Titanium and Gold-toned titanium (Tantalum),
L=Leather or Sharkskin, R=Rubber
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Seamaster Professional?
The best features of the Seamaster Professional are:
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Rugged, reliable, fashionable sports watch. Sufficiently different from the commonly seen
(and heavily copied) Rolex and Tag Heuer designs.
Quality and style arguably comparable to the Rolex Submariner for about half the price.
Overall, a good value for the money in its class of watch.
Tends to significantly exceed accuracy standards in its class.
Bezel not easily bumped out of position.
Well designed metal bracelet. It is very comfortable and does not catch arm hair. Has a
good number of removable links, so can be sized down better than many. Clasp
mechanism better than many others.
The possible disadvantages to consider are:
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The full size Seamaster Professional is larger and heavier than typical men's wristwatch.
The Seamaster Chronograph is even thicker and heavier. But if weight is a concern, both
are now available in titanium versions which are significantly lighter than the steel versions.
Wearing the watch on a leather, rubber, or sharkskin strap instead of the bracelet further
reduces the weight.
For actual diving use, lacks any alarm or other dive timing features other than using the
bezel to mark your time.
Bezel is hard to get a firm grip on to turn.
You can still get stylish and reliable wristwatches for a heck of a lot less money. But if you
really would be satisfied with a Timex, you wouldn't have read this far, would you?
What is this Helium Relief Valve for?
The purpose and function of the helium relief valve is a common point of confusion. It has nothing
to do with normal underwater diving. Neither does it have anything to do with the depth rating for a
diving watch. Helium does NOT seep into the watch while the watch is in water at any depth!
To put it simply, you can completely ignore the helium relief valve. This feature is not used in any
way with any form of normal SCUBA diving or anything else that involves less than a multi-million
dollar deep sea exploration project.
For more detail on this, see our article on Water Resistance.
This feature is so exotic that it really exists mostly as a curiosity. It makes the watch look more
interesting and have an unique feature that other watchmakers are unlikely to copy.
What is the Bracelet Diver's Extension for and how do I use it?
Opening the diver's extension: 1) press on bracelet as shown to pop the extension open, 2 & 3) opening it fully.
Closing the extension: 1) critical first step of inserting flange at steep angle so it goes under the crossbar,
2) then fold the rest into place, 3) a little pressure and it snaps shut
The diver's extension is a portion of the bracelet clasp that, when popped open, extends the length
of the bracelet by 3.1 centimeters (about 1.25 inches). This allows it to instantly change from being
sized to fit on your bare wrist to the larger size needed to fit over the sleeve of a wetsuit. While
interesting, this is a feature that is of virtually no use to anyone who is not a wetsuit diver. Though it
could be used to wear the watch on the outside of an elastic jacket cuff in cold weather.
One critical point to note when operating the diver's extension is to ensure you have closed it
properly when done. The small flange on the extension must fit under the crossbar. Failure to close
it properly can interfere with the main bracelet clasp--causing the clasp to pop open unexpectedly
while you are wearing the watch.
Is that wavy pattern on the dial distracting?
No. The pattern is much more subtle than most photos or jewelry store lighting would have you
believe.
The wave pattern on the dial is a distinctive feature of the Seamaster line, so most of the official
OMEGA photos you see of these watches go to a lot of effort to highlight the effect. While it points
out this distinguishing feature, it also creates a false impression that the pattern is really bold and
visually distracting. Similarly, the intense halogen spot lights used in many jewelry stores are
designed to make diamonds and shiny metals sparkle dramatically. So they also over emphasize
the wave effect.
But outside of the intense light in these two situations, the pattern is pretty subtile -- almost more of
a soft texture.
If you have concerns that the patterns might annoy you, please go see the watch at a dealer, away
from the obligatory intense halogen spotlights, before making a decision.
Is the newer Seamaster Pro dial design easier to read at night?
Yes. The newer dial design introduced on the GMT and 1998 Pro Diver in Titanium and spread
across the Seamaster model line starting in 2000 is easier to read at night than the skeleton hands
on the classic 'James Bond' style Seamaster Professional.
But don't discount the older design too quickly. Many people still prefer the skeleton hands and find
them still easy to read at night. The greatest limitation of the skeleton hands at night is that they
have little to no glowing down the length of the hands -- mainly a round or triangular shape at the
end of the hand. This may cause your eyes to take a couple of seconds longer to focus on and
identify which shapes are the hands and which are the hour markers before you can tell the time.
On the other hand, a number of people found the large glowing hands of the new design to be too
bright and distracting at night. So as with many aspects of these watches, make your own decision
based on what suits your taste and needs best.
To give some visual comparison, here is a computer generated illustration comparing how the two
dials designs appear at night. Both are reading the same time of 10:10:30.
Isn't there a James Bond Seamaster Pro with black dial and bezel?
No. while many models of the OMEGA Seamaster have been made with black dials and black
bezels, OMEGA confirms that the skeleton-hand version of the Seamaster Professional -including both the Professional Diver and Chronograph (commonly known as the 'James
Bond' versions, introduced 1993 and still available in 2000) have never been made with
either a black dial or a black bezel.
The prior versions of the Seamaster Professional (1988-1992, known as the 'pre-Bond' versions)
did have black dials and black bezels. It resembles the 1993-2000 version enough that the two are
sometimes confused.
Later versions, starting with the Seamaster GMT (1998) and Seamaster 'America's Cup' Limited
Edition (1999) included black dials with steel or white gold bezels. The black dial resurgence
continued with the additional Seamaster Pro models introduced in the 2000 model line including
many with black dials accompanied by black, steel, or white gold bezels.
Yet none of the editions that have had black dials or black bezels have had the skeleton hands. So
if you see a skeleton hand Seamaster Professional which appears to have a black dial or bezel,
then there are only two explanations: you are misperceiving the color, or the watch is one of the
counterfeit versions that were made in black -- despite that being an inaccurate reproduction of the
original watch. For more detail on counterfeit watches, see the section on Fake and Counterfeit
Watches and the Rogues Gallery of Fakes.
Misperceiving the color is not unusual. People can easily mistake the dark navy blue on the 'James
Bond' Seamaster Professional Diver for black. This mistake occurs from several simple causes:
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Blue shades are harder than most colors for people to discern because the human eye has
a relatively lower density of blue cones (color receptors) in the optical center of the eye.
Dark blues are inherently harder photograph and reproduce, since they are lower energy
wavelengths -- and become hard to differentiate from the extremely low to zero light energy
reflecting from a black surface.
Printed photos and on-screen images are notorious for inaccurate or misleading color
reproduction. So do not overly trust them as accurate indications of the color or the watch.
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The intense halogen lighting of a jewelry store is designed to make diamonds sparkle. But
dark blues can be washed out by the overpowering light and other bright colors reflected by
or onto the watch. This effect is particularly prominent with the shiny steel-bezel models.
Why isn't MY Seamaster specifically covered in the articles here?
Chronocentric would love to provide coverage of every Seamaster model made since they were
first introduced in 1948. But the practical reality is that we have neither the time nor the access to
resources to research, write articles or obtain photographs of even a small percentage of them. So
our primary focus is to cover as much as we can about general OMEGA information and details of
recent and current models.
For details of models not covered here, try the Vintage Information section of the official OMEGA
website.
What are the features of the Seamaster Aqua Terra?
The Seamaster Aqua Terra watches have:
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The new OMEGA Coaxial movement, not available in other models of the Seamaster
series.
Many of the time/date models also available with a precision OMEGA quartz movement.
Offered in four sizes: 35, 38 and 41mm case diameters for gents and 28mm for ladies.
Also offered in a 42.2mm gents chronograph.
Available in steel, steel and gold and all gold models with a variety of dial and hand colors.
Sapphire crystal, highly resistant to scratching.
Sapphire display backs are standard on the Aqua Terra so you can see the operation and
quality of finish on the movement. Thank you OMEGA for listening to your customers!
As with all OMEGA models incorporating Coaxial movements, OMEGA offers a three year
warranty instead of their usual two-year.
Models on a factory strap come standard with the OMEGA foldover clasp.
Rated for use at depths of up to 150 meters (500 feet).
Manual date change from stem without altering the time setting.
What are the features of the Railmaster?
The Railmaster watches have:
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The regular 38 and 41mm models, available in steel or yellow gold, use the new OMEGA
2403 Coaxial Chronometer movement, which is unique to the Railmaster.
A 42.2mm Chronograph version, available in steel only, uses the OMEGA 3205 selfwinding chronograph Chronometer movement, which is unique to the Railmaster
chronograph.
The 49.2mm oversized version, available in steel only, uses the OMEGA 2201 pocket
watch movement with subseconds display.
Not currently offered in a ladies version.
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All version of the Railmaster are available only with a black dial.
Another unique characteristic of the Railmaster is that -- consistent with the original 1957
Railmaster -- none of the models have a Date feature.
Sapphire crystal, highly resistant to scratching.
Sapphire display backs are standard, so you can see the operation and quality of finish on
the movement. Thank you OMEGA for listening to your customers!
The Railmaster models incorporating Coaxial movements have a three year warranty
instead of their usual two-year.
Models on a factory strap come standard with the OMEGA foldover clasp.
Highly visible hands and dial markers with large fluorescent marks.
I'm confused -- the new Railmaster is also a Seamaster and part of the Aqua Terra
line?
Yes. And it is somewhat confusing.
The design of the 1957 Railmaster was the inspiration for the Seamaster Aqua Terra series.
Though the majority of Aqua Terra models use a dressier approach with their narrow stick hour
markers, minimal luminescent surface area and lack of Arabic numerals, OMEGA chose to make a
few unique models that use the complete, high-legibility, dial design of the original Railmaster.
However, when the modern Railmaster was first introduced, it was only one style of metal and dial
color, available in just two sizes. So it did not merit becoming a whole line of its own. Though it has
since become a hit in the market, encouraging OMEGA to add a number of other variations.
How does the current Railmaster compare to the original from 1957?
OMEGA Railmaster from 1957 [Image: OMEGA]
Years:
Introduced 1957
Available through 1962
Case
??
diameter:
OMEGA Railmaster from 2003 [Image: OMEGA]
Introduced 2003
Still a current, regular model
Regular: 38mm or 41mm
Oversized: 49.2mm
Movement:
OMEGA 284, 285, 286
17 jewels, manual wind
OMEGA 2403 Coaxial, automatic,
chronometer in the 38 & 41mm
models or OMEGA 2201 manualwind with sub-seconds in the 49.2mm
model
Black dial with luminous hour
Dial and markers and radium luminous hands
hands: of "Broad arrow," "Dauphine" or
"Stick" type.
Black dial with luminous hour
markers and SuperLuminova luminous
hands of "Broad arrow" type.
Crystal: Armoured hesalite
Synthetic sapphire
Bracelet: Leather only
Water
60 meters
resistance:
Leather with foldover clasp or metal
bracelet
150 meters
Case:
Stainless steel with screw-in crown,
metal case back
Stainless steel with screw-in crown,
sapphire see-thorugh display back
Price:
1960 Retail Price (Switzerland): CHF
285 (About 70 USD back then)
2004 Retail Price (USA, 38mm on
strap): USD 2395 (About 3000 CHF)
Special thick mat black dial (1 mm vs.
typical 0.4 mm) and extra magnetic
shielding -- designed specifically for
Special
scientists, technicians, electricians and
features:
others who work within close distance
of powerful electric currents
Sapphire see-through display back,
showing off the movement inside.
OMEGA Coaxial movement with
free-sprung balance (38 and 41mm
models only)s, offerring reduced wear
and greater stability of operation over
long periods of time.