The Seamaster 120M Plongeur de Luxe reference 396.0900 is a watch inextricably linked to the legendary free diver Jacques Mayol. Worn by the man in his prime in the early 1980's, including on his record breaking dives, it is a highly sought after and very valuable watch in the Omega collector world. Unlike most popular vintage Omega's, this is a relatively small diameter sports watch, with an integrated bracelet, and a quartz movement that isn't exactly known for reliability. That isn't the typical formula for a collectable Omega at all, yet the charisma and importance of the watch combined with that of the man who wore it counts for a great deal. Visit The Jacques Mayol Seamaster 120M Plongeur de Luxe 396.0900 to read the full article.
Another nice article. I even read it although I hate integrated bracelets with a passion… (bought on by a Nixon dive watch in my teens )
Nice article. I've almost bought one of these a couple of times, but each time been held back by something, I don't know what. I certainly regret slightly the one I didn't buy for about €700 at a watch fair 7 or 8 years ago that's for sure!
I know how you feel, integrated bracelet watches are definitely not my cup of tea in general but I think these clearly ape the style of the Royal Oak so well that it rather makes sense. It makes me wonder too as Omega had Genta working for them on and off over that time period both before the Royal Oak on the C-Case Constellation, and definitely after the Royal Oak on the Seamaster Polaris which is an integrated design with some Nautilus influence. There is no suggestion that he worked on the Plongeur de Luxe at all so presumably someone else at Omega borrowed his design during the time he wasn’t actively working for them. It is a remarkably attractive design at that though.
I came close a few times and had the ebay listing that went off on December 4th on my list and an alarm set but missed it due to a dead phone battery which annoyed the hell out of me as I fully expected it to be out of my price range at $1800+ given the condition and someone got it for $1080 WITH a full factory service and warranty… That’s ALMOST a free watch when you consider how much that owner paid for servicing.
