Cultural Perspectives • 05 Nov 2018
Iconic Moments in the History of the Seamaster Diver 300M
When it was launched in 1993, the Seamaster Professional Diver 300M was an instant success. Admired for its design and technical prowess, it was quickly adopted by divers, athletes, researchers and 007. So how did the watch secure its legendary status? These are just some of the many highlights from its early years.
1993
Frenchman Roland Specker achieved a world record freshwater free dive to a depth of 80m in Lake Neuchatel. On his wrist, he wore the new Omega Seamaster Professional Diver 300M, successfully testing it in a true deep-water environment.
1994
The Seamaster Diver 300M Chronograph was awarded the “Watch of the Year” prize by readers of the German magazine Armbanduhren. This was the first “Watch of the Year” award and signalled a promising future for Omega’s newest collection.
1995
The Diver 300M became part of sailing history when it is worn by several sailors of Team New Zealand, who achieved an unforgettable victory at the America’s Cup. At the head of the team was the legendary Sir Peter Blake.
1995
One of Omega’s most exciting and enduring partnerships began when James Bond strapped on a Seamaster Diver 300M for the first time in GoldenEye. The spy and his watch became synonymous and sales of the timepiece soared.
1996
In Lake Theodule at the foot of the Matterhorn, the Seamaster Diver 300M was successfully tested in freezing waters by the instructors from the Ice Rock Club of Zermatt at an altitude of 3000m, proving its ability in the toughest conditions.
1997
The Seamaster Diver 300M proved that is was not just a watch for diving, when it was advertised as the preferred choice of international sports stars including the swimmer Alexander Popov and tennis champion Martina Hingis.
2000
Sir Peter Blake created the incredible Blakexpeditions foundation, dedicated to researching ecological and marine issues around the world. On board their boat the Seamaster, the Blakexpeditions crew wore Diver 300M models for their important scientific work.
2006 onwards – Daniel Craig, James Bond & Omega
A new James Bond, but the same iconic watch! Daniel Craig wore the Seamaster Diver 300M when he burst onto screens in Casino Royale. It’s a partnership will soon span five movies. For more on James Bond and Omega.
2018 – Omega Unveil An Updated 300M Collection
There are 14 new Diver 300M models, six in stainless steel and eight in a mix of stainless steel and gold. Ticking inside each 42 mm case is the METAS-approved Master Chronometer Calibre 8800. Not only are these watches water-resistant, they’re also accurate and anti-magnetic. Both have laser-engraved wave patterned dials and the bezels are ceramic. Indices on the dial are filled with Super-LumiNova, whereas the diving scale on the bezels come in either Ceragold™ or white enamel.
Omega Roadshow
Stop by the Omega Roadshow at VivoCity to have a look at the new collection in person. Running from the 6th to the 11th of November. Opening hours: 10.30 AM – 9.30 pm. Location: Level 1, Main Atrium, VivoCity.