Had my eyes on this when it was introduced in 2014. I recalled when the Seamaster 300 Master Coaxial was first unveiled, I was very excited and first thought was I need to get it. Then doubts began to overwhelm me. I began to compare this to the CK2913. Do I like the new dial? The polished and shiny bracelet? The exhibition caseback? Given the doubts, i went to take a look when an AD told me one just arrived. I'll show some pics first and give a few thoughts about the watch. Apologies for any dust on the watch. I don't stay in a lab.
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Some thoughts after a few days on the wrist.
Dial -
I think I like it. Was doubtful about all the text on the dial as I studied the press photos and real life photos of the watch. Would have much preferred the Seamaster text to be on the lower half of the dial but it still works. The brown /gold fonts allow for some contrast from all the other white text. Love the "sandwiched" dial with the lume wells looking faithful to the originals. The faux patina works for me and I appreciate that Omega has applied a grainy texture with the lume.
Case -
I love the 40mm case. Thankfully Omega did not case this in a 42 or 44mm case. However it is a little thick at 15mm vs 12.8mm on my 16610LV. It may be due to the movement but I will overlook this as this is after all a modern dive watch. Exhibition caseback looks nice and all but I still prefer a solid caseback for this SM300. Don't get me wrong, I love to ogle at movements under the hood and I appreciate high end finishing when I see them. The finishing is respectable but this is no Lange. Perhaps a commemorative solid caseback may be more apt. Just a thought.
Bracelet -
I did not like the polished bracelet before I had the watch in hand. But it turns out to complement the watch well. No complaints there. It's extremely comfy with the micro adjustments and it fits the wrist like a glove. My only grouse is the clasp. I feel Omega could have put some thought into the design of the clasp and come out with a more vintage looking clasp. The clasp is too modern looking. I believe they could have designed one given the reissues they have introduced.
For those who are thinking of adding this, I suggest you do not compare this to the original CK2913. A modern watch will never have the character of the vintage. If you're ready to look past that, it will be one very attractive watch, and IMHO, the most attractive in the current Omega lineup.
That said, anyone looking to sell me a nice CK2913?
Thanks for looking!
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