15 BEST Omega Seamaster References of All Time (Till 2024)

One of the first brands many watch enthusiasts discover in this incredible journey of watch collecting is Omega. Whether your discovery occurs as a natural progression or simply a search for “Best Rolex Alternatives”, few brands can match the experience and product offering that Omega can.

They have some of the most iconic timepieces to their credit, from the space-dwelling Omega Speedmaster to the versatile master of town, sea, and country Omega Seamaster. 

Despite the undeniable history and legacy of the Omega Speedmaster, I have always been more of a Seamaster fan myself. The versatility of the collection and its ability to be appropriate for any situation have made these watches the grail of many watch collectors.

History of Omega Seamaster

The Omega Seamaster began in 1948 as the 100th anniversary of the brand. Initially built off the success of simple time-only watches of World War II, these watches featured the same robust construction and caliber 30T2 architecture but housed in a more elegant design.

They could still tackle any environment from town, sea, and country, but their ability to serve as a dive watch wouldn’t come until almost a decade later, in 1957. The Omega Seamaster 300 and Omega Seamaster Railmaster, released in 1957, would come to identify the range through to the current collection.

Omega continued to release bezel-free watches that offered unique colors and functionality, from time only to world timers and virtually everything in between. The Aqua Terra, originally released in 2002, based heavily on the Seamaster 120 from years previous, is the current execution of the original Seamaster line. They are robust, capable, and distinctly classy.

The 1950s and 1960s saw the Mil-Spec design aesthetic of the Seamaster 300 that defined many watches of the era. The 1970s would see the introduction of the Ploprof 600, a saturation-capable monstrosity that was over-engineered and competed head-to-head with the Rolex Sea-Dweller. 

The 1980s was a weird time for the Seamaster and Omega in general. Omega focused on quartz technology and not so subtly took some design cues from their main competitor Rolex. Thankfully for Omega, and all watch enthusiasts, the 1990s were a return to form for Omega, who found great success with their Bond partnership and the Seamaster Diver 300 that accompanied it and remains the basis of design for their current lineup.

In addition to the current flagship offering, the current Seamaster has a line of divers capable of saturation diving. First with the quirky Ploprof, mentioned earlier, and most recently with the more subdued Planet Ocean line of divers. Fortunately for those of us who adore the vintage aesthetic from their dive heritage, Omega also has a Seamaster 300 line that pulls from the 1950s design with modern specifications.

Omega Seamaster Characteristics

Many of the timepieces we see today in the Seamaster collection would fall firmly into the dive watch category. However, some modern timepieces harken back to the original design identity of those bezel-free beauties. The true value of the current collection comes in the sheer variety available for consumers. 

Pick your color, style, functionality, and even historical inspiration. Omega most likely has a Seamaster to fit your needs (if not, just give it a few more years; Omega has no problem milking this cash cow, rightfully so!). Although no official requirement exists, the original Omega Seamaster mantra for town, sea, and country best summarizes the collection.

These watches are versatile everyday pieces that, despite leaning casual or sporty, won’t look out of place in almost any environment. Now that we know a little more about the history and variety available let’s take a look at 15 of the best examples of Omega Seamaster watches. With the variety available within the lineup, this list was harder to put together than I expected. 

The Best Omega Seamasters

1. Omega Seamaster Diver 300M (ref. 210.30.42.20.03.001)

Why not kick this list off with the modern interpretation of what many people think when they hear Seamaster. The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M is the current offering of the brand’s most iconic watch within the lineup.

After the success of the Bond partnership initially seen on the wrist of Pierce Brosnan in the Goldeneye blockbuster of 1995, this general design was cemented as one of the many iconic models within the Omega brand. The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, ref. 210.30.42.20.03.00 features a 42m stainless steel case with the iconic wave motif laser etched into a blue ceramic dial.

Matching the dial is the blue ceramic bezel insert, giving this watch a similar color combination to the original but in a very modern luxurious way. As the name implies, this watch provides a 300M water resistance thanks in part to its love-it-or-hate-it helium escape valve.

This Seamaster is powered by the METAS-Certified in-house caliber 8800, featuring a Co-Axial escapement and free-sprung balance with a silicon balance spring that provides a 15,000-gauss magnetic resistance. Coming in at $5600 on the stainless steel bracelet, this example represents one of the most affordable and iconic examples of the illustrious Seamaster line.

2. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra (ref. 220.10.41.21.01.001)

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra is, in many ways, the modern interpretation of the original Seamaster DNA. Before the release of the Seamaster with a rotatable bezel aimed at professional divers, the Seamaster was an everyday watch.

A reliable movement, simple design, and robust construction helped to separate the original Seamaster from the competition. The Aqua Terra does the same thing, albeit with some more luxurious touches. The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra, ref. 220.10.41.21.01.001 features a 41mm stainless steel case with a stainless steel bracelet.

Although available in several color iterations, the black dial with a teak pattern provides the clearest example of this model range. The twisted lugs and arrow minute hand help to give the bezel-less design a sportier look and feel. 

The 150M of water resistance and robust caliber 8900 ensure this watch is up to almost any task you can throw at it. In the world of versatile watches, few can compete with the Aqua Terra. Coming in at a price of $5900, these watches offer a very compelling option to anyone on the hunt for the “one watch collection”. 

3. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M (ref. 215.30.44.21.01.002)

The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean is a great example of modern specification melding perfectly with vintage design cues. The 600M of water resistance ensures that this model line can accompany you on any adventure you can throw its way. What really helps this watch stand out, however, is its subtle nod to the past. 

This watch is by no means a vintage re-edition, but several easter eggs are sprinkled throughout the design. The broad arrow handset and Arabic numerals on the dial are reminiscent of the original 1957 Seamaster 300, while the ceramic bezel and helium escape valve are very modern features borrowed from the previously mentioned Omega Seamaster Diver 300M.

The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M (ref. 215.30.44.21.01.002) features a 43.5mm stainless steel case with a stainless steel bracelet. The black dial is accented with pops of orange in the numerals and second hand, which also carry over to the first 15 minutes of the ceramic bezel insert.

The helium escape valve is still a marmite feature in the Omega Seamaster collection, but it does feel slightly more appropriate on a watch boasting 600-meter water resistance. 

The caliber 8900 in this watch matches the functionality on the outside with the 15,000-gauss magnetic resistance and free-sprung balance.

There is a slight premium of $6700 over the standard Seamaster Diver 300M, but given the extra specification and prices of rival Rolex’s Sea-Dweller line, the watch provides a lot of value for the money. 

4. Omega Seamaster “No Time To Die” (ref. 210.90.42.20.01.001)

In the watch world, few endorsements carry as much weight as that of Mr. Bond, James Bond. The Omega Seamaster has been the watch brand of choice for Bond since the 1995 Goldeneye release, and since then, there has been no shortage of limited editions to commemorate the partnership.

The latest iteration of this partnership has undoubtedly struck a chord, not just with Bond fans but with watch enthusiasts in general. The Omega Seamaster “No Time To Die” (ref. 210.90.42.20.01.001) features the same size and case shape as the standard Omega Seamaster Diver 300M but is housed in grade 2 titanium while sporting a modern caliber 8806 movement.

The watch is paired with a mesh titanium bracelet that features an adjustable buckle. The true showstopper for this watch is the vintage aesthetic. Where Omega generally leans into the modern aesthetic with the Diver 300M line, this watch looks like it was plucked right out of the 1950s. The Bond branding is subtle, featuring a British MOD arrow and an inscription on the back of the watch.

This watch will set you back $9500, which is a fairly substantial premium over the standard model. But, given the innovative case material, unique design, and Bond partnership, this watch is worthy of the price. 

5. Omega Seamaster 300 (ref. 234.30.41.21.01.001)

Sticking with the vintage-inspired theme, let’s look at the Omega Seamaster 300, ref. 234.30.41.21.01.001. This model is based on the Omega Seamaster introduced in 1957 alongside the Railmaster and Speedmaster collections.

The current model features a 41mm stainless steel case powered by the time-only caliber 8912. A couple of color variations are available for this model, but the black dial with a matching black bezel stays true to the original design. 

The dial sports a healthy amount of “fauxtina” on the hands, indices, and Arabic numerals. The color has been matched on the anodized aluminum bezel insert, which helps give this timepiece a cohesive vintage aesthetic.

Coming in at $6700 on the stainless steel bracelet, this watch features much of what the “No Time to Die” offers in a smaller and more historically accurate package. 

Although this watch will ultimately appeal to a different type of collector than many of the more modern designs, you will have the same construction and specification as any Seamaster in the current lineup. 

6. Omega Seamaster Railmaster (ref. 220.10.40.20.01.001)

As mentioned earlier, 1957 was a big year for Omega. Omega redefined their collection by releasing the Seamaster 300 and Speedmaster while introducing another new product line to the trilogy. The third and often overlooked model in that trilogy is the Omega Seamaster Railmaster.

The Railmaster line was originally introduced as a timepiece for engineers, much like the original Milgauss from Rolex. The Omega Seamaster Railmaster, ref. 220.10.40.20.01.001, is a modern interpretation of this original design ethos. The anti-magnetic properties that helped distinguish this product line from the other 3 hand models of the day are still present (as it is with any modern Omega Seamaster) thanks to the caliber 8806.

The 40mm stainless steel case is a more modern case size but still carries the everyday wearability of the original. The Railmaster dial and handset have a “fauxtina” appearance drawing upon the vintage inspiration, while the dial itself in charcoal gray features a unique dial pattern that leans into the modern aesthetic and build quality.

Coming in at a price of $5200, this watch presents a great entry point into the world of Omega that perfectly blends where they have been with where they are now.

7. Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Chronograph (ref. 210.30.44.51.01.001)

When comparing complications for tool watches, many people are torn between the timing dive bezel and the chronograph function. Both of these complications provide extra functionality and help to give a timepiece a unique look. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? Omega has provided several examples of these diving chronographs, perhaps none better than what they provide in their current collection.

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Chronograph, ref. 210.30.44.51.01.001, is a beefed-up 44mm stainless steel watch that features much of the design language of the standard Diver 300M. The ceramic dial and bezel and dial with wave motif are both present, as is the helium escape valve.

What helps this watch stand out is the chronograph function made possible by the caliber 9900. This movement provides many of the features we have come to expect with current Omega movements and adds the functionality of a column wheel chronograph. 

Amazingly this watch still features a 300M water resistance, which is especially impressive when you consider the chronograph Omega is most known for is only rated for 50M. If you are looking for a very robust and functional chronograph watch, this Omega for $8100 is one of the best options available from any brand. 

8. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra GMT “GoodPlanet” (ref. 231.90.43.22.04.001)

If the dive bezel and chronograph aren’t quite your cup of tea, but you still want something more than a time-only design, Omega still has something for you. The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra GMT “GoodPlanet”, ref. 231.90.43.22.04.001, is a 43mm grade 5 titanium watch with a crisp white dial and blue hands and indices.

As the name suggests, this Aqua Terra has a little trick up its sleeve and that comes thanks to the caliber 8605 and its “traveler style” GMT functionality. This movement allows for the changing of the hour hand without stopping the minutes or seconds hands.

Although this feature is not a requirement for a GMT watch, it is often seen as the more elegant style of GMT functionality. The partnership with GoodPlanet, which aids in environmental conservation, ensures you can feel as good about your purchase of $10,800 as the watch will look on your wrist. 

9. Omega Seamaster Olympic Official Timekeeper (ref. 522.32.40.20.01.001)

When it comes to precision timekeeping, there are few requirements as stringent as the Olympic Games. The difference between a medal and not can often be determined by mere fractions of a second. Since 1932 this responsibility has fallen on the shoulders of Omega.

They have only continued to perfect their craft in the time since, and their latest 2,032-piece limited edition is evidence of this fact. The Omega Seamaster Olympic Official Timekeeper, ref. 522.32.40.20.01.001, sports a 39.5mm bezel-free stainless steel case. The black dial is surrounded by a wide white chapter ring with blue accents on the dial as well as a matching blue seconds hand.

This watch is inspired by the more colorful examples from the late 1960s and 1970s, such as the Dynamic range. Powering this movement is the very capable caliber 8800. If you are looking for a more adventurous design from some of the others on this list, at $5,600, this Seamaster is a great option to go with whether you’re a fan of the Olympics or not. 

10. Omega Seamaster 1948 (ref. 511.13.38.20.02.002)

When the Seamaster was originally released in 1948, the design was more reminiscent of what we consider a dress watch by today’s standards. Despite its robustness for the time, the simple center seconds or sub seconds models are very classically designed.

These early vintage examples have been a great entryway into the Omega Seamaster line for many watch enthusiasts that appreciate the aesthetic and can rock a 33mm-35mm timepiece. In 2018, Omega decided to reintroduce these original models while making some concessions to appease modern tastes.

The Omega Seamaster 1948, ref. 511.13.38.20.02.002, features a beefed-up 38mm stainless steel case based on the center seconds model released in 1948. The dial, except for the “Co-Axial Master Chronometer” text, is a nearly identical match to the original it is paying homage to.

As the writing on the dial indicates, the Co-Axial caliber 8806 takes the specification of this watch well into the modern era. The thick lugs, knurled crown, and an etched crystal, now made of modern sapphire, help keep the original design’s charm while providing all of the enhancements the last 70 years have provided. 

Coming in at a price of $6600, this Seamaster is a considerable amount more than the originals from 70 years previous. But, given the modern specification and historically accurate charm, this Seamaster is one of the best vintage reeditions from any brand.

11. Omega Seamaster Bullhead Chronograph (ref. 225.12.43.50.01.001)

When looking at the current Omega Seamaster lineup, few watches truly stand out from others in the lineup. That is in no way taking away from the design language of the Seamaster, simply pointing out the fact that besides some minor quirks like the helium escape valve, the Seamaster line is a modern example of traditional watch design.

That wasn’t always the case for Omega. They were once known for some truly unique designs that did anything but played it safe. The first of these we will look at is a recreation of the 1969 chronograph that literally turned the watch world on its head.

The Omega Seamaster Bullhead Chronograph, ref. 225.12.43.50.01.001, is a modern interpretation of the original 1969 Bullhead Chronograph that came to define the style. Coming in at 43mm X 43mm and housed in a stainless steel case, this watch is not one that will go unnoticed. 

The unique placement of the crowns and pushers really sets this watch apart. The placement at the top and bottom serves two functions. First, it allows the user to activate the chronograph pushers while in a more natural position for reading the time, and second, it improves the wearability on the wrist. This watch is powered by a caliber 3113 with Co-Axial escapement and a 52-hour power reserve.

With the addition of an internal rotatable bezel, this watch is as functional as it is funky. Although limited to 669 pieces, a low number by Omega limited-edition standards and lack of availability brand new, this once $9600 timepiece can be had for even less if you’re willing to let someone else put the first few scratches on it.

12. Omega Seamaster Ploprof 1200M (ref. 227.90.55.21.04.001)

When looking at quirky models within the Omega Seamaster line, one watch stands above the rest. The Omega Ploprof was originally developed back in 1971 after 3 years of prototypes to help design a watch capable of reaching 600M.

The Monoblock stainless steel case, an extra thick crystal, and unique bezel locking mechanism were engineered so meticulously that they would not even allow the tiny helium molecules to enter the watch and present challenges after decompression. 

Unfortunately for Omega, Rolex built upon their Submariner lineup and made some slight enhancements, including a simple helium escape system that made for a safe method for helium to enter and exit the watch, effectively solving the problem in a much simpler way.

That doesn’t mean this Omega Seamaster Ploprof isn’t one incredible piece of kit, though! The Omega Seamaster Ploprof 1200M, ref. 227.90.55.21.04.001, is the modern interpretation of this iconic design. The case shape, with its unique bezel lock and crown guard system, remains, as does the signature mesh bracelet.

The case measures in at an eye-watering 55mm X 48mm, but thanks to the grade 5 titanium of the case and grade 2 of the bracelet the watch comes in at 172 grams. Despite the large dimension, this watch is surprisingly wearable for those with above-average wrists.

The depth rating has been doubled from the original 600M to a very impressive 1200M. The watch is powered by the caliber 8912, ensuring that the functionality on the outside of this Ploprof is matched by what’s on the inside. Coming in at a price of $12,600, this absolute spec monster provides exceptional functionality with a design that is all its own.

13. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 6000M (ref. 215.30.46.21.03.001)

Just when you think 1200M is overkill, Omega comes out and releases a watch that makes that look like a dip in the pool. The race to the bottom between Rolex and Omega has been well documented. But, in a nutshell, these two brands can’t help but produce watches that one up the other regardless of their practical significance to the end user.

In 2019, Omega dealt their latest blow in the form of a commercially available watch that can reach 6000M. The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 6000M, ref. 215.30.46.21.03.001, is a 45.5mm timepiece made out of O-Megasteel that has been over-engineered in almost every way to help it achieve the 6000M depth rating.

The case and crystal are thicker, coming in at 18.1mm, but thanks to the wider case, it is still wearable for those with larger wrists. The watch is powered by the reliable caliber 8912. The real surprise with this watch is that it ultimately looks like any other Planet Ocean model, minus the helium escape valve.

For $12,000, Omega managed to do something they could not do when their Ploprof lost to the Sea-Dweller; they refined rather than reinvent the wheel.

14. Omega Seamaster 300 Spectre Limited Edition (ref. 233.32.41.21.01.001)

Omega has proven several things about watch marketing with its Omega Seamaster collection. One of those is the power of partnerships, and the other is that people appreciate vintage design cues. Thankfully for us, those two marketing principles are not mutually exclusive.

Omega was able to prove this with their 2015 limited edition of the Bond franchise. The Omega Seamaster 300 Spectre Limited Edition, ref. 233.32.41.21.01.001, is a 41mm stainless steel timepiece that follows the design aesthetic from the original 1957 Seamaster 300 and is powered by the Co-Axial caliber 8400.

The major difference is the 12-hour timing bezel that helped to give this vintage-inspired timepiece a new look and functionality. This 7007-piece limited edition is the watch worn by Mr. Bond during the blockbuster movie Spectre. 

This timepiece has long sold out but can still be found pre-owned for roughly $10,000, representing an intriguing option for any Bond or Omega enthusiast.

15. Omega Seamaster Professional 300M (ref. 2531.80.00)

While putting together this list of great Seamaster watches, one thing stood out to me. Many of these watches wouldn’t be here without the great designs in Omega’s historical archives. The 1950s and 1960s developed Omega’s traditional design language, while the 1970s gave us some of the quirky designs that helped break Omega out of that shell.

It wasn’t until the mid-1990s that those two sides of Omega truly blended and gave us a unique design language that felt more traditional and less quirky. The Omega Seamaster Professional 300M, ref. 2531.80.00, although not the very first reference to bear this design, is the watch many people think of when they hear Omega Seamaster.

The cameo in Goldeneye and the N64 classic video game that accompanied it proved that partnerships, when done correctly, can work! The watch became an overnight success and still remains popular among us nostalgia-chasing watch enthusiasts who remember the countless hours wasted with friends battling for Bond supremacy.

The watch itself features a 41mm stainless steel case with an aluminum bezel insert. Although available in a few color iterations, the blue dial and blue bezel is the true icon. The wave motif and skeletonized sword hands are present and very reminiscent of the models in the current lineup.

This watch featured the caliber 1120, based on the ETA 2892. It may not feature many of the great enhancements of their current Co-Axial range, but it is a reliable and beautiful movement nonetheless. The preowned market has been steadily increasing for this model, but you can expect to pay roughly $3000 for a good example. Considering the history and design, this is a watch I could picture saying, “I wish I bought it when I could”.

Conclusion

There you have it, 15 of the best Omega Seamaster references. With so much variety in the product line, it is hard to believe that all of these options bear the Seamaster branding. Whether you are looking for a time-tested icon or simply a great everyday piece to accompany you on any adventure, the Omega Seamaster has the option to satisfy your needs. 

Thankfully, unlike their main competitor Rolex, you’ll even have the opportunity to go to an Authorized Dealer and try a few on. Regardless of which model you settle on, the Omega Seamaster is definitely worthy of at least 1 spot in any watch box. 

Happy watch hunting!