BaselWorld 2018: Introducing The New Omega Seamaster Diver 300M

jets

Anyone that keeps has seen my posts will know I do not prefer skeleton hands. However this new models with a tweaked hour hand improves the look of the watch a lot to me especially with the date moved to 6 o'clock. I must say that the current flat dial seems like a better fit - I just think they needed something to make the new watch stand out against the 41mm; mostly for non WIS people.

It seems the whole Blake Sword era is really over and this is what they are sticking with. Looking at it now they were offering two flavours of the same watch to expand they're market appeal. I hate to say it, those of us who liked the Blake models will never get it back in the 300 diver line. The Planet Ocean is the current Blake side and it's case is not pleasing to me anyway.

In short I think I may eventually own one as it seems better than a Rolex sub. Even the two tone versions look really good.

Now I'll go back to imagining this new 42 case and bezel with updated 2230 dial with blake hands.

astrand

This rendition reminds me of my experience of trying "Cajun" food at a restaurant after moving from New Orleans to Stockholm, Sweden. It had the right name (Gumbo), it looked like gumbo, but it did not taste like gumbo. I did not like it, but everyone else who had never had "real gumbo" thought it was great.

I think it is a great looking watch, but only if you allow it to stand alone and not compare it to previous models, especially the 2254 and 2531. If one loves sword hands then they should just buy a used 2254 or other sword hands model and wear it and love it. If I want real gumbo, I order it when I go back to New Orleans.

The problem I have now is... do I spend roughly $2,000 on a used 2531 or buy a grey market new seamaster ceramic for $2700? I wanted the new watch to solve this dilemma for me, but it has not. Wave dial and a classic or more bang for the buck.

gostang9

I've never been a fan of the Seamaster 300M and nothing in the new releases changes that for me.

I'd rather wear this $147 diver any day, to each their own...

jets

Great analogy. I just bought a 2254 and it's on it's way to join my 2534. The 2254 is in transit as we speak with the bonus of a 2230 dial. Eventually I will build my ultimate smp with black SMPc case, 1610 bracelet, 2230 dial along with the blake hands. If I like the result I will source a 2254 dial and restore my 2254 to stock.

If I were you I'd pick up the SMPc for 700 more and it's a a huge upgrade over the 2531. The clean dial is really something that grows on you. But then if you're thinking 2531 you should then think harder! 2220.80 is the winner if you want all the best of the wave dial with applied indies and 2500 movement. Problem with the 2220 is not as low in price as the 2531.

Speedmasterfan88

You mean the Reese's escape valve? 😝