An Introduction To Omega Watches

Omega is a brand that has long been at the forefront of innovation, in both engineering and aesthetic capacities. From developing the first industrialised caliber to being an integral part of mankind’s first missions to the moon, Omega is a name synonymous with pushing the envelope and consistently striving for improvement.

The brand has also been responsible for revolutionising competitive timekeeping. Over the years, Omega has relished its role as official Olympic Games recorder. The firm is also responsible for developing the world’s first electronic timekeeping system (coining the term “photo finish”) and has consistently overcome challenges to create a reliable system for simultaneous timekeeping on land, sea and air.

Of course, a large part of Omega’s appeal can be attributed to its incredibly handsome designs. After all, the brand is responsible for providing none other than 007 himself, James Bond, with his wrist adornments. Suave, sophisticated, and packing a lot of punch: that’s Omega.

President Kennedy was also a huge fan of the brand and notably wore an Omega at his 1961 inauguration, in what was a fantastic decade for the luxury watch manufacturer. From The White House to the moon, it seemed that everybody in high society wanted in on Omega.

The demand for Omega wristwatches among celebrities and persons of note continues in 2021, with the likes of Tom Hanks, George Clooney and Prince William all regularly spotted wearing Omega timepieces. If you’re a first-time buyer, you may be wondering which model to go for - and in this article, we’ve put together a list of the most popular Omega watches for men to help you decide:

1) Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch 321 Stainless Steel 311.30.40.30.01.001

 

This iteration of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch utilises a 39.7mm stainless steel case and is directly inspired by the third-generation style worn during the very first American spacewalk back in 1965. It features a vintage Omega logo, iconic Moonwatch hands, a chronograph function and a transparent caseback.

The case is manufactured from stainless steel and features an ultra-strong sapphire crystal display. This ultimately means that the Speedmaster Moonwatch 321 isn’t just stylish and lightweight, but incredibly durable too.

Through this caseback, it’s possible to observe the 321 caliber at work, which powers the 30-minute and 12-hour recorders. This famous manually-wound movement offers 55 hours of power reserve and features a Breguet balance-spring and an 18k gold PVD finish. It’s like owning a piece of history, as it is the very same caliber that made it to the moon.

Understandably, demand for such a prestigious watch is incredibly high. While a brand-new Speedmaster Moonwatch 321 Caliber will set you back £5,370, it’s worth keeping an eye on the secondary market, as you could be able to buy an Omega for slightly less than the retail asking price.

2) Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 42mm 310.30.42.50.001

 

 

 

As one of the world’s most iconic watches, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is often the first port of call for those starting their Omega collection. It has been a part of all American moon landings to date and represents adventure, technological prowess and a pioneering spirit.

It is set upon a brushed steel bracelet that features five arched links in each row. It also contains hesalite glass on an asymmetrical case and features an embossed Seahorse medallion on the back. Back when the first manned missions to the moon were being planned, weight was at a premium. This meant that all equipment and technology on board had to be as lightweight as possible. As a result, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is incredibly comfortable to wear, almost to the point where you won’t feel it around the wrist.

Engineering-wise, this watch is driven by Omega’s 3861 Co-Axial Chronometer caliber. This movement powers the second subdial, the 12-hour recorder and 30-minute recorder, in addition to powering the central chronograph.

Unsurprisingly, demand is high for the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 42mm 310.30.42.50.001. At retail value, a brand-new model costs £5,370, however with large waiting lists it can often be easier to secure a Speedmaster Moonwatch on the secondary market for approximately the same price.

 

3) Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Co-Axial Master Chronometer 42mm 210.30.42.20.03.001

 

 

Since making its initial appearance back in 1993, this iteration of the Omega Seamaster Diver has grown steadily in popularity. Modern Seamaster models continue to embrace the oceanic heritage of the original while updating it with the latest innovations in design and engineering.

The 210.30.42.20.03.001 model is manufactured from stainless steel and is immediately recognisable by its deep blue ceramic bezel complete with a white enamel scale for diving measurement. The dial is finished in polished blue ceramic, and as an aesthetic touch, it features waves that have been carefully laser-engraved at 6 o’clock near the date window. Rhodium-plated raised indexes and skeleton hands have been filled with Super-LumiNova, making this watch incredibly easy to read, even in the deepest seas, oceans and lakes.

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300m is presented on a stainless steel bracelet that has been constructed for durability. As the name suggests, the watch is water-resistant for up to 300 metres in-depth, and also features a helium escape valve to allow helium to be removed from the watch during professional use in decompression chambers. This isn’t just a watch for show: it’s the real deal with the technology to back it up.

At retail, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Co-Axial Master Chronometer 42mm is advertised at £4,450. It makes for a sound investment, as it tends to hold this value on the secondary market, which is great news if you’re looking to sell an Omega watch.

 

4) Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Co-Axial Chronometer Chronograph 44mm 212.30.44.50.03.001

 

 

 

This iteration of the Seamaster is another tribute to Omega’s maritime legacy, but with a slightly larger case and some interesting technological prowess to boot. As with all Omega watches, you can also expect plenty of sumptuous design features in this 300-metre water-resistant model.

The chronograph boasts a lacquered blue dial which features a 30-minute recorder at 3 o’clock, a small seconds dial at 9 o’clock and a 12-hour recorder at 6 o’clock. It’s a practical solution for those who need to display real-time while timing other events, and is engineered to be used in a professional capacity.

A domed, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal features an anti-reflective treatment on both sides. This means that the wearer can always legibly tell the time, regardless of what environment they are currently in.

Like other Seamaster models, the 212.30.44.50.03.001 features a helium escape valve, date window, and a unidirectional rotating bezel. However, this version features a completely automatic movement with a main spring which is wound by the natural motion of the arm.

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Co-Axial Chronometer Chronograph 44mm 212.30.44.50.03.001 currently retails on the primary market for £4,350, although high demand usually means that it’s easier to pick this model up on the secondary market for approximately £4,450.

 

5) Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Speedmaster Moonphase 44.25mm 304.33.44.52.03.001

 

 

Just when you think Omega simply can’t improve any further on the Moonphase, the brand unleashes the 304.33.44.52.03.001 model on an unsuspecting world. This version takes the spirit of exploration and engineering one step beyond, and features two incredibly small yet ultra photo-realistic moons.

A sun-brushed blue dial is finished with rhodium-plated indexes for easy reading, and at 6 o’clock there sits an accurate moon phase indicator. This metallic crystal disc has been microstructured to provide a high-resolution image of the moon.

The case on the 44.25mm model is manufactured from stainless steel and is complimented wonderfully by a blue ceramic bezel. The bezel features a patented Liquidmetal tachymeter scale.

At the heart of this timepiece is the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer 9904 automatic movement, which has been certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) for accuracy. The movement is unaffected by exposure to strong magnetic fields and is capable of withstanding measurements of greater than 15,000 gauss.

In the minds of many Omega fans, the 44.25mm Moonphase Co-Axial Chronometer is the best Speedmaster yet. It’s an incredibly attractive timepiece, and comes with a whole slew of exciting features - so it’s no surprise to understand that demand is consistently high. It retails for £8,710 and holds its own on the secondary market for approximately £8,990.

 

6) Omega Seamaster Diver 300m “Commander’s Watch” Co Axial Chronometer 41mm 212.32.41.20.04.001

 

 

This stainless steel case chronograph with a white ceramic dial is hugely in demand among James Bond fans. As a limited-edition piece, it’s also increasingly rare. The Commander’s Watch entered production in 2017, and a total of 7,007 will be manufactured before the model is discontinued.

While the 007 decorative plate might appeal specifically to Bond fans, there’s a lot more than a simple franchise tie-in to this timepiece. It’s got all the features you might expect to find in a high-end Seamaster, like a helium escape valve, automatic movement, COSC certification and a unidirectional rotating bezel.

The NATO colour scheme of navy blue, red, white and grey helps the Commander’s Watch to stand out from the crowd and brings a more casual air to the classic Seamaster design. It’s eye-catching without being garish, and fun while still exuding professionalism.

As a limited-edition piece, it can be difficult to come across a Commander’s Watch on the primary market. In fact, Omega recommends contacting boutique sellers. On the secondary market, you can expect to find this model trading for anything between £4,000 and £4,300.

 

7) Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronometer Chronograph 38mm 324.32.38.50.02.001

 

For those who prefer a more simplistic approach, the Speedmaster 38mm collection comes highly recommended. It eschews prominent design features, large dial sizes and contrasting colour schemes, but still manages to retain the look and feel of Omega’s most famous wristwatch.

This particular model comes with a stainless steel case and bezel, which boasts a tachymeter scale upon a grey aluminium ring. The dial features oval subdials at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock, with a date window sitting at 6 o’clock. The overall result is functional, practical and stylish without being too overbearing. A Novo Nappa leather strap finishes off proceedings, making this Speedmaster perfect for both formal and smart-casual pairings.

At 38mm, the Speedmaster 38 is certainly less imposing than related models but remains surprisingly easy to read. It also comes with the features you’d expect from a Speedmaster: a tachymeter, automatic movement, small seconds window and COSC certification.

On the primary market, this model retails at £4,080, making it one of the more affordable watches in the Omega catalogue. It tends to appreciate in value over time, and on the secondary market, it is regularly valued in the region of £4,360.

 

8) Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m Co-Axial Master Chronometer GMT 45.5mm 215.92.46.22.03.001

 

 

This iteration of the Omega Seamaster - known as “Big Blue” among collectors and aficionados alike - is a combination of diver’s watch and GMT which marries innovative design and unique style. The blue ceramic dial features a distinctive orange GMT track, while the indexes and hands are finished in 18K white gold and Super-LumiNova coating for easy legibility. The wave-edged caseback features a patented ceramic lock which ensures the engraved wording is kept firmly in position.

While the Big Blue might be visually stunning, it also packs a huge punch from an engineering perspective, too. It features anti-magnetic technology, which means the movement is unaffected by strong magnetic fields. With a self-winding movement, the watch is powered simply by the natural motion of the wearer’s arm movements.

When you add in a helium escape valve, COSC-certification, Omega’s patented Master Chronometer 8906 caliber, a screw-in crown and transparent caseback, you’re looking at one seriously attractive watch which is ideal for even the most extreme of pursuits. The Big Blue is completed by a durable blue rubber strap, which is closed via a ceramic foldover clasp.

At retail price, you can expect to get your hands on an Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m Co-Axial Master Chronometer GMT 45.5mm 215.92.46.22.03.001 for £9,640. At present, there are some fantastic deals on the Big Blue to be found on the secondary market, which means you could pick one up for around £8,165, shaving over a thousand off the primary asking price.

 

9) Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Co-Axial Chronometer GMT Chronograph 44mm 212.30.44.52.01.001

 

For those in the market for a Seamaster which is sleek, smart and offers plenty of features, the 212.30.44.52.01.001 certainly ticks all the right boxes. The matt black dial is a prime example of Omega’s understated yet functional design, and like other Seamaster models, it features 30-minute and 12-hour recorders.

A lightweight stainless steel bracelet contrasts nicely with the darkness of the unidirectional bezel, which comes complete with a helium escape valve. This bezel is particularly useful for divers, as it helps prevent the miscalculation of dive times. At 44mm, this is certainly one of the larger Seamaster’s in the Omega catalogue, but it wears well on the wrist and is practical for most situations.

The GMT function will undoubtedly be useful for those who need to track two time zones at once, and the COSC-certified 3603 caliber ensures reliability and accuracy within two seconds each day. Ultimately, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Co-Axial Chronometer GMT Chronograph 44mm 212.30.44.52.01.001 is equally as stylish as it is practical, which is why demand is high amongst collectors.

Purchasing an Omega 212.30.44.52.01.001 on the primary market will set you back £5,130. Depending on demand and availability, you can expect to find this version of the Seamaster retailing for anywhere between £4,450 and £6,300 on the secondary market, which makes it a reliable investment indeed.

 

10) Omega Seamaster Diver ETNZ 300m Co-Axial Chronometer Chronograph 44mm 212.92.44.50.99.001

 

Omega has long been synonymous with marine sports, and the Seamaster Diver ETNZ is a celebration of the Emirates Team New Zealand’s winning campaign during the America’s Cup, which is widely regarded as the greatest trophy in sailing. As you might expect, it is adorned with familiar team colours and features a contemporary design which is stylish, legible and practical.

The Omega ENTZ is a COSC-certified chronograph which features a grade 5 titanium dial and Super-LumiNova applied indexes which emit blue light. This makes reading the watch incredibly easy, even during foggy or inclement weather conditions.

Elsewhere on the dial, you’ll find a small seconds sub-dial (positioned at 9 o’clock), a 12-hour recorder (6 o’clock) and a 30-minute recorder (3 o’clock), the latter of which also features a five-minute countdown to signify the start of a regatta.

Powering this model is the Omega Co-Axial Caliber 3330, which is automatically powered by the movements of the wearer. The watch is finished with a durable black rubber strap complete with a ceramic clasp. The matt black of the strap complements the black bezel while contrasting with the greys and reds of the dial.

The Omega ENTZ retails at £5,650 on the primary market. It tends to hold its own on the secondary market, with valuations coming in at around about the same figure. However, it’s still a worthwhile investment. Supplies are limited and as time goes on this timepiece is highly likely to appreciate in value.

 

11) Omega Speedmaster “Dark Side of the Moon” Apollo 8 311.92.44.30.01.001

 

 

The Omega Speedmaster “Dark Side of the Moon” has been lovingly crafted in celebration of the Apollo 8 mission of 1961, in which humans first witnessed the previously unseen side of our celestial satellite. It’s an incredibly collectable watch and one which is set to be high in demand for years to come.

This version of Speedmaster is presented on a perforated black leather strap that features yellow rubber in the middle. This rubber is clearly visible through the perforations. The colour scheme is matched on the black dial, with varnished yellow chronograph hands complemented by a white Super-LumiNova tachymeter scale and crown.

The blackened, skeletonised caseback features the words “we’ll see you on the other side” - a reference to astronaut Jim Lovell’s last words before Apollo 8 travelled to the far side of the moon. Inside, the 1869 caliber - itself a decorated version of the famous Omega 1861 caliber - is incredibly reliable and can be observed at work through the transparent caseback.

Omega’s “Dark Side of the Moon” model retails at dealerships for £8,340. Understandably, as a collector's piece, you might expect to pay slightly more on the secondary market. Conservative estimates put this watch at £10,000 - although at Chrono Hunter, you’ll always be able to find the most affordable deals when you buy an Omega watch.

 

12) Omega Speedmaster Racing Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 44.25mm 329.53.44.51.03.001

 

 

There can be no denying that the 329.53.44.51.03.001 is one of the most beautiful Omega watches on the market. It features an 18K Sedna gold case atop a blue leather strap, a blue ceramic ring on the bezel and an Omega Ceragold tachymeter.

The distinctive sun-brushed blue dial boasts a racing-style minute track, from which the model gets its name. Two blue subdials and a date window blend nicely with the colour of the dial while contrasting with the 18K Sedna gold indexes finished with white Super-LumiNova.

This watch is powered by the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer 9901, which has been certified to be among the industry’s highest-standard movements by METAS. The transparent caseback makes it possible to see the movement at work within the watch - another nice touch which Omega does exceedingly well.

The retail price for the Omega Speedmaster Racing Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 44.25mm 329.53.44.51.03.001 is set at £23,070. As an attractive and in-demand timepiece, this model understandably holds its value on the secondary market, at which you can expect to spend the same amount.

 

Conclusion

Omega watches are the perfect marriage of engineering, functionality and design - something which is apparent when you consider they are worn by persons of note across a wide spectrum of industries. From sportspersons to sartorial savants, and astronauts to actors, there’s quite simply room for an Omega in the wardrobes of all men.

If you’re purchasing an Omega as an investment, you’ll also be pleased to find that an overwhelming majority of models hold their value, with many increasing in price over time. If you’re looking to buy an Omega watch, the good news is that Chrono Hunter will be able to find you an incredible deal, regardless of which model you’re in the market for.

This is because we’ve created long-lasting working relationships with the best secondary market suppliers in the UK over the years. In addition to this, we’ll always endeavour to beat any quoted price online by networking with our team of reliable luxury Omega watch retailers.

If you’d like more information on a certain Omega model or would like us to provide you with a free, no-obligation quote on your favourite model, please feel free to get in touch with us today.