Posts filed under Omega

Insider: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Sochi 2014 Limited Edition. One of Our Favorite Planet Ocean Watches.

As you know, the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean is one of our favorite watches from this manufacture. Its robustness, movement and design are the perfect combination for a great every day watch that can take on the daily abuse while providing great wrist presence. The Planet Ocean Seamaster 600M collection is available in 45.5 mm, 42 mm or 37.5 mm and with a wide variety of dials, straps, bezels, limited editions and even featuring a chronograph or a GMT complication.

Since the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games had begun today, here we are presenting you the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Sochi 2014 Limited Edition ref. 522.30.46.21.01.001 that pays tribute to the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Russia and where Omega is the official timekeeper. This beautiful watch available in a limited edition of 2,014 pieces comes with the same features and specs as the regular 45.5 mm model; however, in order to differentiate this special watch from the ordinary Planet Ocean watches, the black ceramic unidirectional rotating divers’ bezel has been redesigned to include the colors of the flag of the Russian Federation —red and blue— as accents on the first ten minutes of the diving scale and the "Seamaster" imprint on the dial is bright red instead of the traditional white or orange. For this particular model, Omega has selected to go with the stainless steel case measuring 45.5 mm in diameter.

The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Sochi 2014 Limited Edition is waterproof rated to a depth of 600 meters/2000 feet and has a helium-escape valve at 10 o'clock. The beating heart inside this watch is the Omega calibre 8500 which provides a power reserve of 60 hours when fully wound. One important thing to consider when buying any of the new Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M watches, is that the calibre 8500 doesn't feature the typical quick-set calendar function but instead it features a rapid advance mechanism where the hour hand needs to be independently advanced 24-hours in order to adjust the date. While this new calendar feature guarantees perfect time setting when traveling across different timezones —without losing minute synchronization—, we feel that sometimes it could be bothersome having to set the date this way after not wearing the watch for more than five days.

Opposed to the rest of the Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M collection, this watch is not fitted with a sapphire crystal display case back but with a solid case back carefully engraved with the OIympic Games logo and the pertaining limited edition information. We are glad that this watch is fitted with a solid case back as we feel that diving watches appear more robust and rugged this way. As expected from any Omega watch, the case and bracelet are beautifully finished with alternating satin-brushed and polished areas.

On the wrist, the watch wears extremely comfortable just as all other Planet Ocean watches and with fantastic wrist presence. However, when compared to the older version —aluminum bezel insert— of the Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M, the watch wears slightly smaller due to the added thickness of the new bezel setup and the new 8500 calibre fitted in the watch.

Sticker Price $6,600 USD. For more info on Omega click here. 

News: Pre-Baselworld 2014 Omega Unveils the New Speedmaster Mark II. A Classic Chronograph Gets Updated with Two Fascinating Dial Variants.

1969 was a memorable year for humankind. For the first time, we broke our terrestrial bonds and set foot on another world – and the astronauts who took those first steps on the lunar surface were equipped with Omega Speedmaster Professional chronographs. The same year, Omega introduced the new-look Speedmaster Mark II, a timepiece with a streamlined case that was powered by the same space-tested, hand-wound calibre 861 found inside the Moonwatch. In 2014 Omega has reintroduced this classic Speedmaster Mark II and updated it to include an automatic movement and tachymetric scale that is visible in the most limited light – a first in the iconic Speedmaster family.

The polished and brushed stainless steel case is barrel-shaped and has a polished crown and pushers. A date corrector is located at 10 o’clock on the case. The dial is complete with the three recognisable sub-dials: a 30-minute recorder at 3 o’clock, 12-hour recorder at 6 o’clock and small seconds sub-dial at 9 o’clock. A flat scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the matt black or grey dial. The transparent tachymetric scale on the sapphire crystal is illuminated from beneath by an aluminium ring filled with Super-Luminova. The varnished white and black hour and minute hands are coated with Super-LumiNova as is the central chronograph hand. For Omega fans and Speedmaster fanatics who are looking for an iconic design with a bit of colour, the Speedmaster Mark II with the grey dial features a fluorescent orange central chronograph seconds hand and a matching minute track.

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The case is fitted with a brushed stainless steel bracelet, complete with Omega’s patented extendable fold over rack-and-pusher clasp. The watch is presented with a tool that makes adjusting the date quick and easy. Distinguishing the new Speedmaster Mark II from the 1969 watch that inspired it is the Co-Axial calibre 3330, a self-winding movement equipped with an Si14 silicon balance spring and a column-wheel chronograph mechanism. The new Omega Speedmaster Mark II is water resistant to 100 metres / 330 feet and is delivered with a full four-year warranty.

More details coming when we are reporting from Baselworld 2014 at the end of March. For more info on Omega click here.


Posted on January 14, 2014 and filed under Omega, News, Baselworld.

Insider: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra >15,000 Gauss. A Truly Anti-Magnetic Watch with a Display Case Back.

Before we go into our in-depth review of the new Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra >15,000 Gauss ref. 231.10.42.21.01.002, let's start by providing you with some historical context and explaining what is truly considered an anti-magnetic watch. An anti-magnetic watch is one that is able to run with minimal deviation when exposed to a certain level of magnetic field. The ISO —International Organization for Standardization— issued a standard for magnetic resistant watches, which many countries have adopted and which is referred as the ISO 764 Horology—Magnetic Resistant Watches. According to ISO 764, a watch must resist exposition to a direct current magnetic field of 4,800 Amperes by meter and keep its accuracy to ± 30 seconds/day as measured before the test in order to be acknowledged as a magnetic resistant watch. To give you some context of electromagnetic fields in gauss, a small neodymium-iron-boron NIB magnet creates a field of 2,000 gauss and an MRI machine anywhere between 600-70,000 gauss.

The first recorded experiments in anti-magnetic watchmaking date back to 1846 when the watchmakers from Vacheron Constantin were among the first to experiment with anti-magnetic features assembling the first anti-magnetic watch only several decades later in 1915. Their watch was able to withstand magnetic fields because some of its parts were made of non-magnetic metals with a palladium balance wheel, balance spring and lever shaft. Later, in 1929, Tissot assembled the first ever non-magnetic wristwatch.

Image from Christie's.

Since their appearance, anti-magnetic watches have been favored by people who deal with high magnetic fields. They are widespread among electronic engineers and in other professions where strong magnetic fields are present. Today, even divers' watches according to ISO 6425 must be anti-magnetic. There are two ways of creating an anti-magnetic watch, the first is by using different non-ferrous alloys —like the Glucydur balance and Nivarox hairsprings— in the movement components and the second one is to house the movement in a casing made of soft iron like on the Rolex Milgauss or the IWC Ingenieur.

This year, Omega created the first anti-magnetic watch in their line-up by launching the Aqua Terra >15,000 Gauss ref. 231.10.42.21.01.002, a very special stainless steel watch fitted with the Omega Co-Axial caliber 8508, one of the most dramatic technological innovations resistant to magnetic fields greater than 1.5 tesla —15,000 gauss—, exceeding the levels of magnetic resistance achieved by any other watch ever made. As a reference, the new Aqua Terra 15,000 Gauss can withstand 15 times more magnetism than the Rolex Milgauss —1000 gauss.

The Seamaster Aqua Terra > 15,000 Gauss is fitted with a 41.50 mm stainless steel case with brushed and polished areas and with a matching bracelet or on a brown leather strap —ref. 231.12.42.21.01.001. The watch is fitted with a very distinctive sunburst black lacquered dial with the traditional vertical lines of the dials on the Aqua Terra watches, applied markers with luminescent material, a yellow minute track, a date aperture at 3 o'clock, a yellow transferred legend that reads '> 15’000 GAUSS' and a very nice seconds hand in the traditional black and yellow colors of the magnetic field warning symbols.

The bracelet is nicely done with a double folding clasp and polished center links. The bracelet is extremely light but quite comfortable on the wrist.

The beating heart inside this watch is the automatic Omega in-house calibre 8508 fully made of non-ferrous components to guarantee its anti-magnetic properties. The movement provides a power reserve of 60 hours when fully wound. The technology developed by a team of ETA, Asulab, Nivarox FAR and Omega engineers led to the first prototype of the movement. Unlike other efforts to combat the effects of magnetism, this Omega movement does not rely on a protective case inside the watch case but on the use of selected non-ferromagnetic materials in the movement itself. Several patents are pending for the new movement which, even after exposure to a magnetic field greater than 15,000 gauss, still performs at a chronometric level as defined by COSC. The greatest advantage besides its anti-magnetic properties, is that the movement can be fully appreciated via the display case back, unlike the Rolex Milgauss or the IWC Ingenieur. The watch is also waterproof rated to a depth of 150 meters/500 feet.

On the wrist the watch wears nothing but comfortable. The case is quite thin making it quite easy to be tucked under the cuff of a shirt. This is a watch that is definitely one than can be a great conversation piece and a reliable timepiece with a movement that is a real workhorse.

We would like to provide special thanks to our friends at the Tourbillon Boutique in Chicago for letting us come in and review this timepiece now that the press loaners are quite scarce these days. 

Sticker Price $6,600 USD. For more info on Omega click here.

Macros: Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Regatta. Enough Yellow to Make it Stand Out.

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Regatta ref. 212.30.44.50.01.002 comes with enough yellow accents to make it stand out in a nice way. Fitted with a stainless steel case measuring 44m in diameter, this Seamaster features a co-axial chronograph with regatta countdown indicator. The matte black dial features a yellow five-minute countdown tracker on the 30-minute chrono-register at 3, a 12-hour chrono-register with date aperture at 6 and a small running seconds register at 9 o'clock. The matte black ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel looks more graphite grey than black and the watch case band is equipped with a helium-escape valve and an integrated date corrector at 10 o'clock. The beating heart inside this robust watch is the automatic Omega Co-Axial calibre 3330 with column-wheel chronograph and free sprung-balance equipped with Si14 silicon balance spring. This calibre provides a power reserve of approximately 52 hours when fully wound. If you want a watch that is precise and solid at timekeeping and you happen to participate in Regattas, then this is the perfect watch for you.

Sticker Price $6,000 USD. For more info on Omega click here.

Experience: Eight Omega Watches We Absolutely Love Right Now. A Little Bit of Everything for Everyone.

Many of you often wonder what our favorite watches are by each of the different manufactures. Well, no need to keep wondering. We have decided to put together a short list of eight of our favorite Omega watches right now. These watches are not only great looking but also a great bang for your buck. 

1. The Omega Seamaster Ploprof 1200M ref. 224.30.55.21.01.001 is a massive diver's watch with the most fascinating look and wrist presence. Bulky, manly and very 70s looking. Measuring 55mm x 48mm and weighing almost 300 grams, this diver's watch is one of our favorites. An updated interpretation of an iconic Omega vintage watch that is priced just right. Sticker Price $9,700 USD.

2. Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph in Titanium ref. 311.90.44.51.03.001 a lightweight —126 grams—, versatile and gorgeous looking chronograph with blue dial. Case diameter 44.25mm. Just because blue dials are very popular this year, this is a fantastic watch to own. Sticker Price $11,400 USD.

3. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Limited Edition Olympic Games Sochi 2014 ref. 522.30.46.21.01.001 a Planet Ocean Co-Axial 600M featuring red and blue accents on its ceramic bezel inspired by the colors of the Russian Federation flag. Case diameter 45.5mm. A limited edition watch consisting of 2014 pieces only. Sticker Price $6,600 USD.

4. Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Co-Axial Chronograph ETNZ Limited Edition ref. 212.32.44.50.01.001 is a limited edition watch consisting of only 2013 pieces honoring the Emirates Team New Zealand from the America's Cup. A very sporty watch with a gorgeous rubber strap and a fascinating red and black dial that includes the 5-minute regatta countdown indicator. Sticker Price $6,600 USD.

5. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Co-Axial Chronograph in Red Gold ref. 231.50.44.50.06.001 a classic and robust chronograph in red gold with a fascinating teak pattern gray dial. The Aqua Terra collection recalls the wooden decks of luxury sailboats. Case diameter 44mm. This is not your run-of-the-mill solid gold timepiece weighing more than half a pound —close to 260 grams. Sticker Price $44,200 USD.

6. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M GMT GoodPlanet ref. 232.30.44.22.03.001  an ideal watch for frequent travelers that helps keep track of two timezones with a stunning lacquered blue dial and orange accents on its blue ceramic bezel. This watch was designed as a tribute to the rewarding partnership between Omega and the GoodPlanet Foundation where Omega has pledged a portion of the proceeds from this watch to fully fund a project to preserve mangroves, seagrasses and coral reefs in the oceans of Southeast Asia. Case diameter 43.5mm. Sticker Price $8,100 USD.

7. Omega Speedmaster Alaska Project Limited Edition ref. 311.32.42.30.04.001 a discontinued limited edition of 1970 pieces that honors one of the most fascinating projects between Omega and NASA. The watch is provided with a large —57mm in diameter by 23mm in thickness— red-anodized aluminum protective case and the watch itself has a diameter of 42mm. This watch is also supplied with a stainless steel bracelet and a white Velcro fastening strap. Sticker Price $5,600 USD.

8. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M ref. 232.30.46.21.01.003 a classic, sturdy and elegant diver's watch with a gorgeous ceramic bezel. Case diameter 45.5mm. A must have in any collection. Sticker Price $6,200 USD.

For more info on Omega click here.  

Insider: Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon Numbered Edition. The World's First and Only Central Tourbillon.

The Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon featured here is not only the first and only central tourbillon watch ever made, but it's also a watch that is crafted by a select group of horologists from Omega. This sublime watch ref. 59333032 comes with an 18K red gold case measuring 38.7mm in diameter —in a specially numbered edition— and is fitted with a gorgeous silver hand 'guilloché' dial with the watch case number imprinted at 6 o'clock, a touch that resembles the dials on Breguet timepieces where the case number always appears on the dial.

Its mesmerizing tourbillon cage is located at the center of the dial and it rotates completely once every minute. The blue anodized seconds hand is shaped like the Omega symbol and is fixed directly to the tourbillon cage. The dial features two superimposed sapphire discs on which the hour and minutes hands are etched in the shape of arrowheads in blue. The size of both hands is quite similar, making it somewhat difficult to tell time —not a deal breaker as you will be hypnotized by its central tourbillon and after contemplating it for hours, who cares about what time it is. 

This watch is powered by Omega's automatic calibre 2600 which provides a power reserve of approximately 45 hours when fully wound. Unfortunately, the calibre is not visible as this watch is fitted with a solid case back that is beautifully engraved with an image of 'Chronos' —the ancient Greek personification of time— and with the words 'Tourbillon' and 'Chronometer' as this movement is an Officially Certified Chronometer.

The traditional crown located at 3 o'clock is only used to wind the watch —if necessary— as the time is set using the flat crown placed on the case back near the 9 o'clock position. This is a very interesting feature and something that was necessary from a mechanical and design standpoint as the hands are etched onto the two superimposed sapphire discs.

This Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon is fitted with a brown alligator strap with a comfortable and easy to use deployant buckle in 18K red gold. Even though the watch is waterproof to a depth of 30 meters, we wouldn't recommend getting the strap wet and ruining it. We've said this before about other watches fitted with crocodile or alligator straps that are not suitable for swimming.

This timepiece wears quite comfortably and true to its size. The watch is very elegant but is not necessarily the most versatile timepiece when it comes to the types of outfits that would go well with it.

If you want to own one of the most unique tourbillons out there, this Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon fits the bill as it is the world's first and only central tourbillon.

Sticker Price $104,000 USD. For more info on Omega click here.

Experience: Thomas Pink Polo Shirt. You Can't Go Wrong with the Cheeky Fox and an Omega Seamaster GMT.

Mr. Pink was an 18th century London tailor who designed the iconic hunting coat. The coat was made in red fabric but was always referred to as PINK in honor of its originator. Scrupulous attention to detail, exclusive fabric and exquisite craftsmanship were the hallmarks of a PINK coat. Today, Thomas Pink’s Cheeky Fox, audaciously resplendent in his own hunting PINK, serves as a reminder of Tailor Pink’s tradition of excellence which is carried on today in their meticulously crafted shirts. Just like the meticulous craftsmanship and design behind that Omega Seamaster GMT you have been wearing for years and that still looks very current.

Image from Thomas Pink. 

Every Thomas Pink shirt is crafted to the impeccable heritage of London's Jermyn Street, home of traditional British shirt-making. While most watchlifestylers are very familiar with the Pink dress shirts, their short sleeved polos are still not as popular. The Pink casual polos are soft, luxurious and perfectly cut to guarantee the right fit.

Thomas Pink offers a wide selection of colors and designs with a small or big cheeky fox on them. In this case, we are showcasing the logo polo shirt that comes with a big cheeky fox and the super-sized PINK name across the chest. A true classic made only for those that like the very best.  

The Thomas Pink polo shirt designs truly embody the essence of the polo shirt and will typically feature the polo team numbers on the chest and back, numbered from one thru four. Thomas Pink also offers other designs without numbers and with a black and white Union Jack flag where the chest number typically appears.

Next time you are taking that Azimut yacht out of the West Palm Beach Marina, make sure you are wearing one of this amazing polo shirts along with your Omega Seamaster for the ultimate combo and distinctive look.

Remember, these shirts are made for those those that don't like to wear what everyone else does and that enjoy the finer things in life.

Sticker Price $150 USD. For more info on Thomas Pink click here.  

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Insider: Omega Speedmaster Apollo XVII 40th Anniversary Limited Edition. Only 1972 Pieces Available with a Sterling Silver Dial.

As you all know, the Omega Speedmaster is one of most iconic timepieces of all-time and the only watch to be part of all six lunar missions. It is the only timepiece to have made it to the moon —proudly called the Moonwatch— and also a watch that marked an era in the history of horology back in 1969. In order to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo XVII —last lunar mission on December 1972—, Omega released this amazing watch as ref. 311.30.42.30.99.002 with a stainless steel bracelet.

Featuring a .925 sterling silver dial embossed with the same design as the Apollo XVII patch, the look of this watch will spark a conversation wherever you go. The dial presents the traditional Speedmaster configuration —running seconds at 3, hour chrono-register at 6 and chrono-minute register at 3 o'clock— as this watch is fitted with the Omega manual-winding calibre 1861 that provides a power reserve of 48 hours when fully wound. 

The bezel, with its black aluminum tachymetric ring, provides a harmonious contrast to the watch fitted with a case measuring 42mm in diameter and that is waterproof to a depth of 50 meters. The attention to detail on the dial is superb and the relief texture of it is extremely nicely done and a treat to the eyes; however, if you really want to use the chronograph function on this watch, it will be almost impossible for you to keep track of elapsed times as there are no numbers on the chrono registers and the markers get lost with the rest of the visual elements on the design.

As you can appreciate, the dial is quite similar to the original Apollo XVII patch. Perhaps a slight difference on Apollo's facial expression and overall profile. Patch Image courtesy of NASA and Eugene Dorr —genedorr.com

The solid case back is nicely engraved with the limited edition information as well as with the date of the last lunar mission, December 14, 1972. Available in a limited edition of 1,972 pieces this is one of the most unique Speedmaster limited edition watches.

Fitted with a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides allows for perfect clarity and view of the Omega logo that in the case of this watch, is imprinted on the crystal. A very nice and unique touch.

Just like all other Speedmasters, the watch wears very comfortably and slightly smaller on a 7-7.25" wrist. If you love everything that has to do with NASA, Omega Speedmasters or you are just crazy in love with the moon, this is a nice watch to own. Fortunately, the amazing finish and design of the dial makes up for the lack of functionality of its chronograph.

Sticker Price $7,200 USD. For more info on Omega click here.  

Experience: Tod's Fold Over Leather iPad Case. Perfect Protection in a Very Stylish Way.

Tod's is very well known for making some of the best and most iconic driving shoes in the world. Their leather goods along with their drivers hold a great reputation among watchlifestylers that enjoy the good life. Founded in Italy in 1920 by Dorino Della Valle as a small shoe making company out of his basement —just like other very reputable shoe companies—, Tod's has now become a synonym for the highest quality and superior handmade leather goods. 

The Tod's fold over leather iPad case is an accessory that every watchlifestyler needs. Just like the beautiful Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch pictured here, this iPad case will make a statement wherever you go. Embossed with the Tod’s logo on the front and the inside, the case protects the iPad screen with elegance and style. Just like on all other Tod's products, the leather is of the highest quality with a nice full-grain texture.  

The back of the case features a sturdy flap where one can insert the front folding panel and turn the protection case into a convenient stand. This is especially useful for when you guys are spending countless hours reading our content or posting on the online watch forums. 

In case the irony of spending almost the same amount of cash on this case as you would to buy the device is the least of your worries, then it's time for you to get one of these cases and look good next time you are flying across the country on one of your business trips.

Available in a variety of colors. Sticker Price $495 USD. For more info on Tod's click here.  

Macros: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph. Another Amazing Speedy.

A few months ago we featured a review of the new Omega Speedmaster Co-axial Chronograph Moonwatch ref. 311.30.44.51.01.002 here. This time we are just adding some macro shots for your viewing pleasure. The beauty of this Omega 'Speedy' is unparalleled and the co-axial chronograph is a great improvement to the already fantastic Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch.

Enjoy!

As usual, we are closing this post with the traditional wrist shot. This classic watch looks good with any outfit. You can dress it up with a tuxedo or dress it down with jeans and a button down. Regardless of what you are wearing, you cannot avoid noticing the classic look and beauty of this timepiece.  

For more info click here.  

Insider: Omega Speedmaster Legend Limited Edition. Our Favorite Moonwatch Honoring Michael Schumacher.

In preparation to the Grand Prix of Canada taking place at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal this Sunday, we will be talking about a watch that is perfectly suited for Formula One fans.

The Omega Speedmaster Legend ref. 321.30.44.50.01.001 is another limited edition moonwatch honoring Michael Schumacher —there are between ten to eleven Schumacher Limited Edition timepieces that have been launched since 1995 when Michael became an Omega brand ambassador.

This gorgeous reference is a must have for watchlifestylers that are fans of one of the biggest racing legends of all-time. The Speedmaster Legend is fitted with a carbon fiber dial and a very unique bezel insert that commemorates all of Schumacher's racing achievements: 7 world titles, 154 podiums, 91 victories, 250 Formula One races and 68 pole positions. Additionally, it also includes the years when Schumacher won the seven world titles.

While the Speedmaster Legend Limited Edition has the same case size as other Moonwatches, measuring 44.25 mm in width, it wears relatively smaller and quite comfortably. 

In our opinion, the best part of this watch is the carbon fiber dial. The dial includes Arabic numerals from 1 thru 7 highlighting Schumacher's seven world titles. The numerals are white with a red outline and the word 'Speedmaster' is imprinted in red. The dial features running seconds at 9, 12-hour chrono register at 6 and 30-minute chrono register at 3 o'clock. The date aperture at 6 o'clock is discreet and maintains an adequate balance keeping the dial design simple and uncluttered.

The watch is powered by the automatic calibre Omega 3313 with co-axial escapement and a power-reserve of 52 hours —the movement can be admired via the sapphire crystal display case back. If you can still find one, get it. Last known Sticker Price $6,650.

For more info on Omega click here.

Baselworld: Omega. Unveiling of Seven New Models.

The Omega pavilion is located straight down the main aisle at the center of the Exhibition Hall 1.0, right next to the other Swatch Group brands—Jaquet Droz, Tourbillon, Longines, Glashütte, Tissot, Rado, Certina, et.al. This over-sized pavilion with displays on the front, sides and back, unveiled seven new models this week. Some of them quite fascinating. 

The new line-up includes the Constellation Sedna made of a completely new alloy blending gold, copper and palladium—considered 18K rose gold as it includes a minimum gold content of 75%—, the Seamaster Planet Ocean Good Planet which is a tribute to the Good Planet Foundation—with GMT functions, blue dial and blue and orange bezel—, the anti-magnetic Aqua Terra 15000 Gauss, the Aqua Terra Day-Date, the Speedmaster Black Ceramic, the Speedmaster '57 Co-Axial Chronograph and the De Ville Ladymatic Bicolour. For more info click here.

Rare Bird: Vintage Omega Seamaster 'Bumper'. Honoring Mad Men.

We know for a fact that many of our watch lifestylers work in advertising. AMC's Mad Men clearly portrays the most glamorous and fascinating era of Madison Avenue. The 50s and the 60s also mark the time for big horological changes, just right around the time Rolex launched the first Submariner and the first GMT Master. Therefore, why not honor the premiere of season 6 of Mad Men with this fantastic looking watch.

When found, Omega 'Bumpers' are typically not in good shape. However, this gorgeous watch fitted with a nice black alligator strap and original Omega tang buckle is in close to mint condition. The dial now perpetually stained from earlier corrosion is what we call a perfect example of a story telling watch.

This Omega Seamaster circa mid 50s is a rare and beautiful example of the 'Bumper Spring' model fitted with caliber 354. This watch is called the 'Bumper' because of the unique back and forth bumping of the hammer weight into the spring. 

After putting the watch on, we immediately felt transported to that glamorous era of the fancy cocktails, beautiful secretaries and unforgettable new business pitches. The golden era for Leo Burnett, BBDO, Ogilvy, McCann Erickson, Lowe and of course of SCDP —Sterling, Cooper, Draper, Pryce.

Posted on April 8, 2013 and filed under Omega.

Insider: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph. A Great Facelift to an Amazing Classic Watch.

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The Speedmaster is one of the most iconic watches from the Omega line-up. The Speedmaster was originally launched in 1957 and since its landing on the moon it has been awarded the title of moonwatch. This newly launched Speedmaster Moonwatch has been given a facelift as of last year. The reference number on this piece is 311.30.44.51.01.002. This iconic piece belongs to one of our watchlifestylers.

The case on this reference is 44.25mm wide, the chronograph function only includes one register for minutes and hours and the chrono seconds hand has been placed in the central pinion. The sapphire crystal has been treated with an anti-glare coating on both sides and the case back is transparent featuring a sapphire crystal that almost looks like a thick plexi glass. The watch features the newly designed automatic in-house Omega caliber 9300 with a power reserve of 60 hours and date aperture at 6 o'clock. 

This new Speedmaster is like an original Speedmaster but on steroids. The case is massive, solid and quite heavy. The bracelet has been upgraded and the clasp is very comfortable. The single hour-minute register is very convenient and easy to read and the super luminova is quite bright at night.  

This reference is also available in stainless steel, yellow gold and platinum on leather strap.

Watch lifestyler James can attest that after wearing this watch for three months, he thinks that the watch is definitely worth the sticker price of $8,700. For more info on this watch click here.

A bargain, for a truly revamped classic.  

Posted on April 2, 2013 and filed under Omega.

Insider: Seamaster Planet Ocean ref. 2200.51 XL. A Beast of a Diver Watch.

The Seamaster Planet Ocean is a watch with a very long tradition and history. Omega presented the Marine—the world's first watch designed for divers in 1932. The first Seamaster was launched back in 1948, further confirming Omega's position among sailors and divers as the tough and reliable watch of choice. The Planet Ocean still maintains that essence.

The Planet Ocean comes in two different case sizes, the 42mm and the 45.5mm a.k.a XL. There are also two dial variants and two bezel insert configurations of this reference. The white numerals dial is only available with a black bezel insert and the orange numerals dial is available with orange or black bezel insert.

The Planet Ocean XL is a beast of a watch, weighing approximately 215 grams —close to half a pound. The case is massive and very well constructed with polished and brushed areas. The watch is fitted with a double-coated anti-reflective domed sapphire crystal, a screw down crown and a Helium release crown at 10 o'clock for decompression chambers. This watch is top heavy but still very comfortable. 

The dial is a matte finish dial with raised indices with very powerful super luminova that after being fully charged will glow for a good 8-10 hours in the dark. Reading the time at night while you are in bed is quite easy and very functional. We woke up this morning at 5:45am and it was still glowing.

The bracelet is very comfortable and fitted with a diver's extension in case you need to wear the watch over a wet suit. The depth rating on this watch is 600m/2000ft. The movement inside the Planet Ocean ref. 2200 is the Co-Axial Calibre 2500. In the case of the watch reviewed we are looking at a 2500D, which is the second generation of this caliber. The biggest tell-tale is the different font in the calendar disc, especially on the ones, fours and twos.

After almost four months wearing this watch on an every day basis, we can attest that is probably one of the most accurate watches we've ever owned with a variance of +/-0.3 seconds/day. Additionally, the massive case and solid construction has made this watch one of our favorite daily beaters.

Posted on April 1, 2013 and filed under Omega.