Vintage OMEGA Seamaster

OMEGA Seamaster Vintage Models

The vintage OMEGA Seamaster models, cherished pieces within the broader OMEGA Seamaster collection, represent a diverse array of timepieces, each capturing a unique moment in the brand's rich history. From the groundbreaking Seamaster 300 that made waves in 1957 to the quirky Bullhead that turned heads in 1969, these watches showcase OMEGA's innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence.

The vintage Seamaster lineup offers something for every watch enthusiast, showcasing the remarkable evolution of the OMEGA Seamaster design over the decades. Whether you're captivated by the classic elegance of the early models or the rugged functionality of later iterations, these timepieces tell a fascinating story of horological progress. From subtle refinements to bold innovations, each vintage Seamaster reflects the design philosophy of its era while maintaining the collection's core identity. These historical gems continue to captivate collectors and serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Seamaster collection as a whole.

Seamaster 300 (1957)

The OMEGA Seamaster 300, debuting in 1957, stood as a crucial moment in diving watch history. It ushered in a new era of excellence in water resistance and readability, establishing OMEGA as a leading authority in the realm of high-end dive watches. This edition gained instant recognition for its unique broad arrow hands and rotating bezel, making it a timeless classic.

From its inception, the Seamaster 300 showcased a black dial with large luminous markers, guaranteeing clear visibility even in low-light conditions. Its ground-breaking Naïad crown mechanism played a key role in its impressive water resistance, and the bidirectional rotating bezel offered precision for measuring time spent underwater. Over time, the Seamaster 300 underwent numerous improvements, each enhancing and expanding upon the foundation of its initial design and capability.

Seamaster 120 (1966)

Launched in 1966, the Seamaster 120 symbolized OMEGA's dedication to producing dive watches that were both accessible and highly capable. This model provided high-end capabilities at a more budget-friendly price, attracting both professional divers and watch enthusiasts.

The Seamaster 120 featured a streamlined case with a unidirectional rotating bezel, improving its diving functionality. Its protection of up to 120 meters of water depth, as its name suggested, was adequate for most recreational divers. The watch also had a date window at the 3 o'clock position, enhancing its practical durability along with its diving capabilities.

Seamaster PloProf 600 (1970)

In 1970, the Seamaster Professional 600, commonly referred to as the "Ploprof" (short for "plongeur professionnel", the French term for "professional diver"), came into being. This timepiece marked OMEGA's most extreme dive watch at the time, thanks to its unique, eye-catching design and impressive ability to withstand water.

The PloProf boasted a large, asymmetrical case that held an automatic movement capable of withstanding water pressures to an impressive 600 meters. Its standout features included a locking bezel controlled by a bright red button and an innovative crown position system created to avoid unintentional changes when underwater. The PloProf's striking appearance and outstanding features earned it popularity among diving professionals and is a highly prized item for collectors today.

Seamaster 600 (1960s)

The Seamaster 600, debuted in the 1960s, marked OMEGA's venture into deeper levels of diving watch features. This model closed the divide between the previous Seamaster 300 and the more extreme PloProf 600.

Equipped with a robust case and improved water resistance, the Seamaster 600 was designed to endure the forces of deep-sea diving. It often had large, luminous hour markers and hands for clear visibility underwater. The Seamaster 600's mix of advanced features and fashionable appeal attracted a wide range of users, from dedicated divers to watch connoisseurs.

Seamaster Bullhead (1969)

The Seamaster Bullhead, launched in 1969, is recognized as an exceptional piece within the vintage Seamaster collection. It's known for its unique case form that mimics a bull's head, setting it apart from other timepieces and it ultimately pushed the boundaries of watch design.

The standout aspect of the Bullhead is its unusual layout, with the crown and chronograph pushers positioned at the top of the case. This approach was designed to enhance comfort and usability when worn on the wrist. Offered in a range of dial colors, such as blue and brown, the Bullhead has emerged as a sought-after item for its distinct appearance and limited production run.

Seamaster Cosmic 2000 (1972)

Introduced in 1972, the Seamaster Cosmic 2000 marked OMEGA's entry into the popular integrated case-and-bracelet design trend of the 1970s. This model brought a fresh, modern twist to the Seamaster line, adapting to the evolving tastes in watch aesthetics.

The Cosmic 2000 boasted a unique tonneau-shaped case, often with a brushed finish that was in vogue at that point in time. Its dial designs were diverse, but many featured bold, geometric hour markers and hands that perfectly captured the essence of 1970s style. Although not initially designed as a dive watch, the Cosmic 2000 still delivered on its promise of water resistance, upholding the Seamaster brand's reputation.

Seamaster DeVille (1960s)

Introduced in the 1960s, the Seamaster DeVille epitomized a more refined, dress-focused variant of the Seamaster line. Initially included as part of the Seamaster range, the DeVille eventually evolved into a unique collection due to its growing popularity.

Marked by its sleek design and sophisticated appeal, the Seamaster DeVille struck the ideal balance between elegance and dependability. These watches showcased clean, minimalist dials complemented by precise hour markers and slender hands. Despite their water-resistant features, the DeVille was crafted to effortlessly shift from daytime attire to formal evening looks.

Seamaster Chronostop (1967)

Launched in 1967, the Seamaster Chronostop revolutionized the Seamaster line by introducing a unique timing function. This innovative chronograph was tailored for short interval timing, appealing to both athletes and professionals alike.

Its standout feature was the single-button chronograph, enabling the timing of events up to 60 seconds. The central seconds hand would reset to zero when the pusher was released, facilitating rapid, sequential timing. Offering both driver-style (with the dial angle designed for easy reading while driving) and traditional layouts, the Chronostop stands as an intriguing milestone in OMEGA's chronograph history.

Vintage OMEGA Seamaster Price Guide

The vintage OMEGA Seamaster price guide showcases the collection's rich history and its enduring appeal among collectors. The prices of these watches can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as model, condition, rarity, and provenance. Generally, early Seamaster models from the 1940s and 1950s, in good condition, tend to start around $1,000 to $3,000. However, exceptionally rare or superbly preserved pieces from this era can sell for much more, sometimes exceeding $10,000.

Iconic models, like the Seamaster 300 from the late 1950s and 1960s, are in high demand, with prices ranging from $8,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on condition and authenticity. Models that are even more rare, such as the Ploprof 600 or the Bullhead, can sell for even higher prices, often reaching $15,000 to $30,000 for well-preserved examples. It's important to note that prices can fluctuate in response to market trends and the increasing appreciation for vintage OMEGA watches. When investing in vintage timepieces, it's essential to buy from reputable dealers who can verify authenticity and offer detailed information about the watch's history and condition.

OMEGA Seamaster Vintage Specifications

Vintage OMEGA Seamaster watches showcase a diverse range of specifications, reflecting the collection's evolution over decades. From early dress watches to robust professional dive models, each Seamaster variant offers unique features that cater to different needs and preferences. The following overview highlights the key specifications found across various vintage Seamaster models, demonstrating OMEGA's commitment to innovation and precision in watchmaking.

Materials

Vintage OMEGA Seamaster watches boast a collection of high-quality materials, each selected for their unique properties and visual appeal. The primary casings are made of stainless steel, renowned for its robustness and resistance to corrosion – qualities crucial for a collection with a maritime heritage. Certain models, especially those in the dress watch range, feature cases made of either 14k or 18k gold, imparting a higher degree of luxury.

Dive-oriented models such as the Seamaster 300 and Ploprof 600 often benefit from the use of specialized alloys or treatments to boost resistance to corrosion and durability. The crystals have transitioned from acrylic to more scratch-resistant mineral glass over the years. Dial materials span from standard metals to more exotic choices like lapis lazuli in select editions, highlighting OMEGA's dedication to both form and function.

Movement

At the core of every vintage Omega Seamaster lies its exquisite movement, and the collection boasts a wide range of standout calibers. Early models were prized for their manual winding movements, and celebrated for their dependability and precision, particularly the Caliber 500 series. As technology advanced, OMEGA incorporated automatic movements into the Seamaster lineup, with the Caliber 550 and 560 series becoming fan favorites in the 1960s.

For those seeking chronograph models, such as the Seamaster Chronostop, OMEGA utilized unique movements like the Caliber 865. The late 1960s saw the introduction of the Caliber 1000 series, heralding a breakthrough with enhanced accuracy and reliability. Elite models even boasted chronometer-certified movements, highlighting OMEGA's dedication to precision timekeeping throughout the Seamaster collection.

Dial

Vintage OMEGA Seamaster dials are a testament to the remarkable diversity in design that has emerged over the decades, mirroring the shifting trends and functional needs of each era. Early editions were characterized by their clean and elegant dials, adorned with applied indices and dauphine hands, perfectly capturing the sophisticated beauty of the 1950s.

As the collection expanded to include professional dive watches, there was a shift towards dials that prioritized legibility, featuring large luminous markers and hands for easy reading.

The color palette spanned from the timeless classics of black and silver to more daring options like blue, brown, and even gold in certain models. The introduction of the Seamaster 300 brought the iconic broad arrow hands, while the Ploprof 600 boasted a unique orange minute hand that further improved visibility underwater.

Some models, such as the Cosmic 2000, stood out with their bold geometrical designs from the 1970s. Additionally, special editions offered unique dial materials or finishes, enhancing the collectability of certain Seamaster models.

Watch Bands

Vintage OMEGA Seamaster watches come with a variety of band options, each designed to complement the watch's style and intended use. Whether it's elegant leather straps or robust diving bracelets, these bands play a crucial role in defining the character of each Seamaster model.

• Metal Bracelet: Many Seamaster models, especially those designed for diving, came equipped with stainless steel bracelets. These ranged from the iconic "beads of rice" style to more modern, integrated designs. Some high-end models featured gold or two-tone bracelets for a more luxurious look.
• Leather Strap: Dress-oriented Seamaster models often came with leather straps, typically in black or brown. These straps were chosen for their elegance and comfort, perfect for formal occasions or daily wear in professional settings.
• NATO Strap: While not originally offered by OMEGA, many vintage Seamaster owners today opt for NATO straps. These durable nylon straps offer a casual, versatile look that complements the rugged nature of dive-oriented Seamaster models.
• Rubber Strap: Some professional diving models, like the Ploprof 600, were offered with rubber straps. These were designed to withstand the rigors of underwater use while providing comfort and adjustability.

Sizes

The sizes of classic OMEGA Seamaster watches differ greatly among various models and eras, mirroring the changing styles in fashion and the specific needs of each watch. From the slimmer dimensions of the initial dress watches to the more substantial sizes of the models designed for professional diving, the Seamaster collection displays a wide variety of dimensions. Let's delve into the main size aspects of vintage Seamaster watches:

• Diameter: Vintage Seamaster sizes varied widely, reflecting changing tastes over the decades. Early models were typically modest, ranging from 34mm to 36mm. Later dive watches increased in size, with models like the Seamaster 300 measuring around 40mm to 42mm.
• Thickness: Case thickness depended on the movement and intended use. Dress models were often slim, around 9mm to 11mm, while dive watches could be thicker, up to 15mm or more for models like the Ploprof.
• Lug to Lug: This measurement, crucial for wearability, typically ranged from about 44mm for smaller dress watches to over 50mm for larger dive models.
• Lug Width: Most vintage Seamasters had lug widths between 18mm and 22mm, with some variations depending on the specific model and case size.

Power Reserve Indicator

Although not standard on all vintage Seamaster models, there were a few premium or limited-edition pieces that included power reserve indicators. These offered a visual on how much energy was left in the main spring, usually shown on the dial as a small gauge or sub-dial.

Chronograph

A range of old-fashioned Seamaster models included chronograph features, enhancing their usefulness and appeal through design. The Seamaster Chronostop, debuting in 1967, provided a distinctive 60-second stopwatch feature. Various other Seamaster watches integrated classic chronograph designs, featuring various sub-dials for measuring time.

Helium Escape Valve

Launched in subsequent professional diving models such as the Seamaster 600 and Ploprof 600, the helium escape valve emerged as an essential advancement in saturation diving. This tiny valve facilitated the safe release of helium molecules from the watch case during the decompression phase, safeguarding against possible harm caused by accumulated gases.

Water Resistance

Resistance to water differed within the classic Seamaster collection, mirroring the purpose of each design. The initial series of Seamaster watches had moderate water resistance, fit for everyday use. Meanwhile, models such as the Seamaster 300 and Ploprof 600, designed for professional divers, boasted remarkable water resistance to 300 meters and 600 meters, respectively, establishing groundbreaking norms in the field.

Expert Opinion

"Every classic Seamaster carries its own remarkable tale, spanning the sophisticated wristwatch collections from the 1940s and 1950s through the innovative diving timepieces of the 1960s and 1970s. The lasting attraction of vintage Seamasters is not solely found in their visually pleasing design, but also in their historical importance and advanced technical capabilities. Watches such as the Seamaster 300 and Ploprof 600 led the way in the advancement of diving watch technology, setting new standards for waterproofing and readability. At the same time, watch collections like the earlier Seamasters and DeVilles exhibit a classic sophistication that still enthralls enthusiasts and collectors in the present day."

- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob’s Watches

Why Choose Us

Bob's Watches is the place to go if you're on the lookout for a vintage OMEGA Seamaster. Our experts have unparalleled expertise when it comes to luxury watches, especially vintage OMEGA models, giving you the most accurate information and guidance every step of the way. We understand that every vintage Seamaster has its own story and features, and we're committed to helping you find the perfect piece for your collection.

Our thorough authentication process and in-depth condition reports give you full transparency and assurance. We pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing that represents the true value of these timepieces. Selecting a watch from us means not only owning a piece of history but also supporting our commitment to outstanding quality and satisfaction for our customers. Whether you're an experienced collector or just starting out as a first-time vintage watch buyer, our experienced team is ready to assist you on your journey to owning a vintage OMEGA Seamaster.