The Omega Seamaster Diver 300

The current Omega Seamaster Diver 300 wristwatch does not resemble the old style vintage Seamaster dive watches first released way back in 1948 - it is similar in name only. One of my friends owns an old style classic Seamaster that is more similar to the Aqua Terra range watch than the Diver 300.

As Omega is culling its retailers to maintain pricing structures, I really need to make a decision reasonably soon. I am interested in the 212.30.41.20.03.001 reference with stainless steel bracelet, blue lacquered face and bezel.

The calibre 2500 co-axial escapement movement features a self-winding chronometer with a rhodium plated finish that has a power reserve of 48 hours. The Diver 300 movement begins with a base ETA 2824-2 movement and is fitted with George Daniel's co-axial escapement to reduce friction and increase service times through a 25,200 Hz.

The 41mm case is water resistant to 300 metres and features a screw-in crown, a uni-directional ceramic bezel, a helium escape valve located at the 10 o'clock position and a scratch resistant sapphire crystal. Unlike current tastes, the Diver 300 does not incorporate a display case back and retains the Hippocampus symbol.

This is everything you would expect from a Seamaster professional series, although the helium escape value is not required for non-commercial diving operations. The screw type helium release valve isn't too large that it distracts from this timepiece.

Technical specifications aside, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300 is a serious watch and I would certainly like one one on my wrist if I am able to secure the necessary discounts from retailers. This takes a fair degree of negotiation but they have a little latitude to move on price and they want to make the sale.