Omega : Six New Models for 007

“007” is probably the only watch franchise for which we know that every model will be sold out within hours of going on sale. At least, as long as it remains in Omega’s capable hands. The partnership between the manufacture and James Bond is so close that it has no equal. The films appeal to every generation, just as Omega watches can be found on the wrists of collectors aged from 7 to 77. Her Majesty’s spy and his Seamaster move through the ages with astonishing ease. And one of the keys to their success is rarity: 007 editions are released only occasionally.

The two new Seamaster 300M ranges dedicated to Bond are no exception. Fans of the saga will find themselves on familiar ground: the first is called “James Bond”, the second “Spectre”. This is, in fact, the first time in the model’s history that the name “Spectre” has been associated with it. In total, the new range comprises six models: three “James Bond” and three “Spectre”.

Family DNA

Let us begin with the features shared by this illustrious lineage. Naturally, they are Seamaster models: James Bond is a commander in the Royal Navy, so it could hardly be otherwise. They are also exclusively 300M models, offering water resistance to 300 meters. This is the level occupied by the range known as “Diver” (at 150M, it is an Aqua Terra; at 600M, a Planet Ocean; and at 1,200M, a Ploprof). Their diameter is also the same: 42mm. This is the most natural size for the segment, which more exceptionally extends to 43.5mm or even 44mm. Omega has therefore opted for the most moderate diameter in the 300M range, without compromising its tool watch credentials as a genuine diver’s watch.

Finally, every reference is powered by the same movement: Caliber 8806. This is a variation of Caliber 8800, an automatic movement certified as a Master Chronometer and approved by METAS (making it resistant to magnetic fields of 15,000 gauss). Caliber 8800 powers around 40 Seamaster 300M models. Its 8806 variant is preferred for the James Bond versions, notably because of its special oscillating weight.

Multiple Expressions

On the basis of these specifications, Omega has developed six variations. Two are unlimited editions in steel: one “James Bond” and one “Spectre”. The former has a titanium bezel and a blue dial featuring a “wave” pattern. The latter has a black ceramic bezel and a grained dial in the same shade. Both come on Milanese mesh bracelets. They also share the same price: €8,400.

For the other four models, the sales format is unusual: they are sold exclusively in pairs, in presentation boxes each limited to 77 examples. One set is “James Bond”, the other “Spectre”, each featuring the corresponding oscillating-weight motif. Each set contains one stainless-steel watch on a satin-finished Milanese mesh bracelet and a second in platinum gold on a leather strap. The former bears its individual serial number on a plaque at 9 o’clock; on the latter, the bezel is ceramic and the dial is gold.

The presentation box for each 007 pair also includes an additional NATO strap, a pair of cufflinks, a bracelet, a magnifying glass, a travel case and a leather cardholder. The price of each set reflects its prestige: €87,800. And probably considerably more as these rare stocks run out...