Omega just released a new chronograph diver supposedly worn by the the spy in the new James Bond video game.
Oddly enough, it’s based on the ceramic dial platform. So is the main Seamaster 300M line (future launches) still Ceramic Dial + Ceramic Bezel?
Was the aluminium bezel retro Seamaster Omega launched just a one off?
I hope it is. 😁
I owned the SPB509J1 (Marine Master GMT) for over a year as my beater/travel watch before I sold it. I bought it for around $1,750.
It was a beautiful watch with a stunning dial and case. However, there were always few aspects that kept me from really accepting the watch.
Dial looked brilliant in the sun but in majority of other lighting (especially indoors) it looked grainy and plasticky
Bracelet! it was too bulky and Seiko for some reason just isn’t able to come up with a refined bracelet and adjustable clasp that can compete even with micro brands let alone Swiss brands. I tried the Seiko with several other options including a rubber strap and a mesh bracelet but couldn’t quite find a sweet spot.
Movement! The 6R54 is notorious for being a hit or a glaring miss. Unfortunately for me, it never ran more accurate than the mentioned +15-20secs per day.
Few weeks after I sold the Seiko, I ended up buying the new Longines Hydro Conquest 39 at $2,000 and that watch literally slaps the Seiko out of the same for not much more money.
Exceptional wearability, an extremely refined bracelet and clasp with micro adjustments, a robust L.888.5 ETA modified movement with a silicone spring and +3-4 secs accuracy.
I love Seiko but I feel the higher end watches don’t make sense for the price in comparison to some other watches
This is now my 3rd Longines in the last 12 months as I believe in putting my money where my mouth is.
I waited for the hype around the HC to pass before deciding if this will be my new beater / travel watch. I get it, I get all the hype.
I am not sure if there is any dive watch I could recommend to anyone below $6,000 (SMP 300M Ceramic). This checks all boxes on the spec sheet and is absolutely stunning in terms of looks and wearability.
I have owned this watch for over 3 years, love it to the core!
While it may not be the popular opinion, I love it best on the steel bracelet, I feel it compliments the look and weight balance of the watch perfectly.
However, I had a spare rubber strap (Horus) lying around and thought about taking the watch off the bracelet for the summer. I kind of like the result.
I was skeptical if the colour would compliment the black and red on the dial but I think it’s great.
I am now contemplating if it makes sense to get a OEM rubber strap with a deployant clasp, what do you folks think?
Context:
I have been collecting watches since I was 14-15 years old (currently in my mid-30s). Started out with Casios, Seikos, Citizens etc. and in the last 7-8 years I have had the good fortune/misfortune of moving up the ladder into nicer watches.
Lately, after having a volatile collection of over 15-20 watches over the last decade, I have come up with a more structured philosophy to instill some discipline and order to this madness.
Philosophy:
Current collection:
Future Shortlist:
Cartier Santos Medium (white dial) -> Replaces Longines Heritage Conquest as the ‘Dressy’ one
Grand Seiko SBGA025 Atera Valley -> Replaces Longines Avigation Chrono (Chrono pilot overlap with IWC)
What do you guys feel could be potential cases for entry into this collection (1 in 1 out policy)?