So I finally bought a PO that I wanted. You know the one...orange bezel 2500 movement. The reference number is 2909.50.48. It is the 42mm version. I bought it preowned, but it appears in all respects to have never been worn. It is as new in the box with all paperwork and cards. Here's a picture:


Of course, I want to change the strap to something a little more manly, and waterproof. I like the look of the Omega black strap with orange stitching. The current orange strap is 20mm at the lugs and 16mm at the deployment buckle. I have been looking at the Otto Frei website and this is what I believe I should get:
Strap: Model 98000292 (I like the look of the curved end)
Deployment buckle: Model 94521813
Have I got that right?

I might also want to have an Omega bracelet and from my searching the correct model number should be 1580/292. Is that right?

You help to confirm before I buy is greatly appreciated.

 

While I'll leave the exact model numbers to the experts, I'd like to also point out that 20mm is an extremely common size for straps, and you can find hundreds of manly straps out there in that size, in all materials. While the Omega OEM straps and deployants are nice, you can get a beatifully made croc strap by ABP, Camille Fournet and others, cheaper than Omega and at the same or higher quality level. Just a thought....

 

I don't think any of the straps made by the artisans you mentioned are waterproof, and the OP seems to be looking for a replacement that is.
The 98000292 will absolutely fit your piece IF it is the model 2909.50.38, which it appears to be (Omega Planet Ocean 2500 42mm with Orange Croc strap and 16mm deployment). The model number will be listed on the cards that came with the piece. Unlike some of the other Omega straps the 98000292 has curved ends, which will site flush against the case at the lugs. While the Omega curved ended rubber straps are expensive I actually feel their worth the price, since finding a comparable rubber strap in fit and finish is impossible. Other than an Isofrane I truly believe the Omega models are the finest rubber straps you can purchase.
Just my $.02.
And to answer your other question the correct bracelet is 1580/952, not 1580/292

 

whoops! missed the 'waterproof' part. yes, as mentioned above, the Omega rubber straps are truly hard to beat as they fit flush against the case for a clean look. The Isofrane 20mm is also superb for under $100 as well. The custom strap makers I mentioned won't be waterproof, but Camille Fournet makes their straps with a rubber lining instead of calfskin, if you're looking for a nice croc or leather, but one that will resist sweat staining.

 

Hirsch Robby, not curved or deployment but an extremely comfortable strap - http://www.watchobsession.co.uk/collections/hirsch-robby

 

I concur.....I have the PO 42mm and purchased the Omega (OEM) rubber and leather strap w/ deployant and they are WELL worth the money IMHO. As I stated several times on this forum with questions regarding the PO straps, I simply think Omega got it right with their straps. The rubber strap makes all the differences with the PO 8500 and kinda compensates for the weight and case thickness issues. The comfort is simply amazing.

 

I have the original warranty card and it states the reference number is 2909.50.48. Looking those numbers up on the Omega data base, it appears that the .38 and .48 are identical.

 

Alpha, That's a great looking strap. Thanks for the pic.

 

They are not identical actually...

The 48 reference uses a short version of the deplyant clasp, part number 94521633, and uses a strap that is 16 mm at the clasp (98000162).

The 38 reference uses a standard deployant clasp, part number 94521813, and uses a strap that is 18 mm at the clasp (98000147).

The 48 version is also classed as a ladies watch, where the 38 version is a gents watch...the only difference between the watches is the strap/clasp that I can see.

Cheers, Al

 

Thanks Al, that helps a lot. Pete