Considering Omega - where to start?

[peacocknation]

Given the tightness of obtaining almost any Rolex watch these days my eyes have started to wander to Omega. I’m trying to figure out amongst the Seamaster and Speedmaster lines, which models are sort of the de facto standard.

For example with Rolex the SS sub and SS Daytona only have two options each. Well maybe one or two more with the bezels but generally speaking it’s very limited compared to Omega.

So if you were to pick one Seamaster and one Speedmaster as the classic/never gets old....which specific model would they be? I’m assuming certain dial colors/style in each are a part of this consideration as well.

I’m a big fan of getting the classic which is why I’m asking...

Thanks.

[DJ2020]

Are you asking what someone else likes? Speedmaster and Seamaster ARE classics. There are many varieties to suit what YOU like.

To answer your question. If you were to pick one Seamaster and one Speedmaster, which would they be?, The answer would be the one's you like.

[FTX I]

Originally Posted by DJ2020

Are you asking what someone else likes? Speedmaster and Seamaster ARE classics. There are many varieties to suit what YOU like.

This

[MTBer]

The Speedmaster (3570.50) was purchased 2010, and the Seamaster (2220.80) in 2008. At the time, both were current versions of the “classic” models in their respective product lines.

Current equivalents now would be 310.30.42.50.01.001 for the Speedmaster, 210.30.42.20.03.001 for the Seamaster.

[csfischer20]

I couldn’t decide, so I bought a sapphire sandwich moonwatch and a 44mm Seamaster diver within 2 weeks of each other. I love them both. The Seamaster is more of a daily watch for me though.

[peacocknation]

Not sure I asked the question properly...I get that the Speedmaster and Seamaster are the classics. I’m trying to understand which versions, color, etc. of each one most people see as the Classic or OG version of that watch.

[MTBer]

Originally Posted by MTBer

The Speedmaster (3570.50) was purchased 2010, and the Seamaster (2220.80) in 2008. At the time, both were current versions of the “classic” models in their respective product lines.

Current equivalents now would be 310.30.42.50.01.001 for the Speedmaster, 210.30.42.20.03.001 for the Seamaster.

Originally Posted by peacocknation

Not sure I asked the question properly...I get that the Speedmaster and Seamaster are the classics. I’m trying to understand which versions, color, etc. of each one most people see as the Classic or OG version of that watch.

[alllexandru]

OP, lets do the other way around, post here the models you like from the line of Omega.
Both Speedmaster and Seamaster have many variations like you already noticed but lets see which one you like more and we can than maybe help more.

[peacocknation]

Originally Posted by MTBer

Missed this, scrolled too fast, thank you!

[MTBer]

Originally Posted by peacocknation

Missed this, scrolled too fast, thank you!

Hahahahaha gotta say I was confused

[TimeAZ]

Speedmaster: 2021 Hesalite with 3861 movement on bracelet.
Seamaster: Diver 300m white dial w/ black ceramic bezel on black rubber strap

[DJ2020]

Originally Posted by MTBer

The Speedmaster (3570.50) was purchased 2010, and the Seamaster (2220.80) in 2008. At the time, both were current versions of the “classic” models in their respective product lines.

Current equivalents now would be 310.30.42.50.01.001 for the Speedmaster, 210.30.42.20.03.001 for the Seamaster.

This would make anyone happy. Nice combination.

[peacocknation]

I’m definitely going to need to go try the Seamaster and Speedmaster on to see which one I gravitate towards more. I want to like the Speedmaster given it’s Apollo heritage BUT there’s something about the Seamaster...seems more sporty and fun. I think since I’ve got a few Rolex models the Omega should be a fun piece in a way. Not that I baby my Rolex watches but I could see the Omega as something of a weekend/fun in the sun watch or something to wear when traveling and less concerned about the Rolex...

Idk gotta wrap my head around it more and go try some on...which at least one can do that!!

[MTBer]

Originally Posted by DJ2020

This would make anyone happy. Nice combination.

Thank you! The Seamaster (specifically the prior 2531.80 model) was my grail growing up in the Brosnan Bond era. Was too late to the party to get one new, but I really liked the subtle updates on the co-axial version, and Casino Royal officially made it a Bond watch...briefly. So, grail attained.

The unique escapement was a nice horological geek bonus too

[MTBer]

Originally Posted by peacocknation

I’m definitely going to need to go try the Seamaster and Speedmaster on to see which one I gravitate towards more. I want to like the Speedmaster given it’s Apollo heritage BUT there’s something about the Seamaster...seems more sporty and fun. I think since I’ve got a few Rolex models the Omega should be a fun piece in a way. Not that I baby my Rolex watches but I could see the Omega as something of a weekend/fun in the sun watch or something to wear when traveling and less concerned about the Rolex...

Idk gotta wrap my head around it more and go try some on...which at least one can do that!!

For a 'weekend/fun in the sun watch', the Seamaster seems like the way to go. Check out the Aqua Terra line within the Seamaster range too- maybe not as 'iconic', but a little more casual than the classic dive watch.

[duquephart]

You can play "Monkey see, monkey do" or you can research the line and decide what best suits YOU.

[Krash]

Originally Posted by peacocknation

I’m definitely going to need to go try the Seamaster and Speedmaster on to see which one I gravitate towards more. I want to like the Speedmaster given it’s Apollo heritage BUT there’s something about the Seamaster...seems more sporty and fun. I think since I’ve got a few Rolex models the Omega should be a fun piece in a way. Not that I baby my Rolex watches but I could see the Omega as something of a weekend/fun in the sun watch or something to wear when traveling and less concerned about the Rolex...

Idk gotta wrap my head around it more and go try some on...which at least one can do that!!

I already had a Submariner so I got a Speedmaster Professional sapphire sandwich on a leather strap. However, it sounds like a Seamaster might be a better choice for you. The Seamaster is a lot more robust; especially if you swim a lot.

I know they wore it in space and on the moon, but there is no water up there, and honestly, the Speedmaster is a lot more fragile than the Seamaster. Plus, the blue dial Seamaster is classic.

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[Gixnic]

Have you considered a PO instead?

[hedet]

In terms of classic Speedmaster, it’s obviously the moonwatch. It’s a lot harder to pick a “classic” seamaster. My vote would be for the 2500 PO or the seamaster 300 master coaxial. Both are going for a more vintage feel in a modern package and so won’t be dated as quickly as the 300m diver line IMO.

[peacocknation]

I feel I’m quickly gravitating toward the Diver 300.

The blue dial or the limited Bond edition with the gun barrel dial…super cool IMO.

On the standard steel versions with a steel bracelet does Omega offer the rubber strap? Seems like you have to buy one or the other? The bond version I mentioned comes with both as seen on their website. Wasn’t clear for the standard versions.


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[AEC]

Okay, I'll play. For a Speedmaster, I recommend the "standard" Speedmaster Professional. Most owners purchase it on the steel bracelet.

I'm comfortable recommending this model. At least start your shopping by looking at it. It's hand-wound with an acrylic crystal and a solid case-back. Here's the reference on Omega's site in the USA: https://www.omegawatches.com/en-us/w...31030425001001

For reference, here's a photo I swiped from Matt at Watch Exchange Company:



I'll let others chime in on the subject of the Seamaster; I'm not big into diver's watches.

[EEpro]

My next would either be speedy or the 300.

[OrangeKenny]

Wow I’m surprised by the responses here. I thought it was much more clear cut.

For me, the classic speedmaster is the hesalite. The classic Seamaster is blue. Simple as that if you are looking in the current lineup.

Now if you are going second hand or vintage then there is more room for discussion.

[gnuyork]

Originally Posted by DJ2020

Are you asking what someone else likes? Speedmaster and Seamaster ARE classics. There are many varieties to suit what YOU like.

To answer your question. If you were to pick one Seamaster and one Speedmaster, which would they be?, The answer would be the one's you like.

I think he's asking which are the Defacto *standards* for the Speedmaster and Seamaster... not what he should like or what anyone else likes...if I read that correctly...

I could say for the Speedmaster, it's the Hesalite Moon watch... for the Seamaster, I'm not sure...the blue bezel or black bezel SM300.... Though I have the first Planet Ocean and I like that better than the SM300, but is it the defacto Seamastser? Probably not.

Originally Posted by OrangeKenny

Wow I’m surprised by the responses here. I thought it was much more clear cut.

For me, the classic speedmaster is the hesalite. The classic Seamaster is blue. Simple as that if you are looking in the current lineup.

Yup. People are either not reading the OP's post or they are not compreheding what he's asking.

Like this arrogant and ignorant comment:

Originally Posted by duquephart

You can play "Monkey see, monkey do" or you can research the line and decide what best suits YOU.

[Watch2019]

As some have pointed out, for the Speedy, the Moonwatch on hesalite, either the 1861 or the new 3861 caliber.

Regarding the Seamaster, there are many variations in their Seamaster 300, Seamaster Professional, Planet Ocean and Aqua Terra lines. Think the Railmaster line falls under Seamaster as well. This is one reason people are saying why Omega has a long way to go if they wish to catch up with Rolex as there are too many variations and limited editions though some people may prefer this as they have more choices. Hence I don’t think there is any classic here unless it is one’e personal opinion. Most people will buy or own the Seamaster Professional (SMP) or Aqua Terra if the posts on watch forums are any indication. I own the white dial SMP which is popular. As for Aqua Terra, the green 41 mm version is popular. You may also wish to check out the 2021 novelties where the Seamaster 300 has been revamped. This is the Seamaster I will be buying if I am in the market for a Seamaster today.

Hope the above is helpful.

[anonymousmoose]

If you got the $$$, buy a nice LE Speedmaster that will be more unique as time goes on. Lots second hand available with box and papers. A bit of online search will tell you which ones are more sought after than not.

Lots of LE Speedmasters come with the classic dial but have a unique case back. Others have a unique dial etc. Spoilt for choice.

There are also lots of Speedmasters that are not LE, just 'different'. I recently picked up a 42mm Racing model. Same overall design as the Moonwatch but automatic with a carbon fibre dial. No a popular model so got it at a good price and I rarely see this model posted on forums and on the streets.



I don't think the LE Seamasters have quite the folllowing as the Speedmasters do. Just get what you like. Don't be afraid to buy pre owned if you like discontinued models better.

[Rochester585]

Originally Posted by peacocknation

I feel I’m quickly gravitating toward the Diver 300.

The blue dial or the limited Bond edition with the gun barrel dial…super cool IMO.

On the standard steel versions with a steel bracelet does Omega offer the rubber strap? Seems like you have to buy one or the other? The bond version I mentioned comes with both as seen on their website. Wasn’t clear for the standard versions.


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I would buy the blue dial seamaster 300M, get it on the bracelet which i think is really nicely constructed and has a great clasp..and then work the rubber strap into your deal if purchasing through a dealer. if youre purchasing online you will need to order either the bracelet or strap/tang buckle separately

to add another dimension, there now exists a factory rubber strap deployant clasp option for a few more bucks than the strap/tang buckle design that were used to seeing on this watch. If i had not already spent a few hundred on the tang/pin buckle design i would be asking about and purchasing the deployant version instead....any deployant just seems more "finished' to my eyes, but there are no issues with the tang buckle design, i love wearing this watch on the rubber

enjoy the research portion of this purchase, there will be very little hunt and chase like if you were set on rolex. if youre able...i suggest getting into an omega boutique or authorized dealer, they will have these watches available to try on and purchase, a discount price is still possible to be negotiated and if youre not comfortable asking for a price reduction, i bet you could easily have that rubber strap added into the full retail cost which i believe for the seamaster is still sitting at 5200 USD on the bracelet.

i think it would be harder argument to say you want to pay 4900 full retail for the rubber strap reference, and have them add in a steel bracelet..but maybe that can be your angle...."well i really like the price point at 4900..but i would like the choice to have both the bracelet and the strap...."

i think you could get a dealer to agree to 4900 and still get the bracelet and the strap, but i also havent been shopping for awhile and i have no idea how hot the market is currently

sorry for the novel, i just really love my seamaster and omega as a brand..if you decide to get one i think you will really enjoy it

[samson66]

Suggest the new Seamaster SMP 300M on rubber in whichever color you like best. I have white dial on black strap. But you can't go wrong with any of them. The grey dial is one that is really striking when you see if for the first time. And of course the classic black dial on black rubber is close to perfect.

[1William]

I would start with the Seamaster in either the white dial or blue dial version. Buy it on the bracelet and add the rubber strap and you have a great combination. Wear it, enjoy it and start exploring the Speedmaster. There are a lot of options out there but the classic Moon watch in either the 1861/1863 or the new 3861/3863 on the bracelet is what I would buy next. I suggested the color dials on the Seamaster because the Speedmaster dial is black in my recommendations. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

[AJMarcus]

Originally Posted by alllexandru

OP, lets do the other way around, post here the models you like from the line of Omega.
Both Speedmaster and Seamaster have many variations like you already noticed but lets see which one you like more and we can than maybe help more.

Exactly.