Neo-Vintage Omega Seamaster 300 - The Best One Out There?
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- čas přidán 5. 09. 2024
- "The best" is usually something highly subjective. Especially when we are talking about watches. For our Managing Editor Nacho, his Seamaster from the early 2000's qualifies as "the best". Follow along as he tells you a little bit about the history of the Seamaster 300 and why this specific version is the one he likes most. Do you have a favorite Seamaster reference? Let us know in the comments!
I've owned that same reference for almost 20 years and it never gets old. One of the best designs ever from Omega.
My father was an Omega lover, and when I graduated from college, I asked for this watch as my gift in 2005. it’s still my every day wear and my most cherished possession
i lost mine about a year ago, bought new 15+ years ago. i scrubbed all history of the watch of my computer and heart. found it yesterday and it feels like brand new.
I’ve owned 4 Seamasters and have sold all of them… except this 2254. It’s an incredible watch - from the dial, to the lume, to the thinness of the case, to the Speedmaster bracelet (which is WAY better than the seamaster bracelet)… it’s just a perfect weekend watch. The newer ones are great looking, have great specs… but they’re too thick.
I agree with this review - it’s fantastic and a keeper for me.
I’ve had a quartz version for nearly 20yrs and it is my one and done collection. I’ve had other watches along the way but the seamaster is the one that connects with me. Cant really seeing me part with it. Great video guys👍
Me too. I am still amazed how accurate it is. The only time I need to adjust the time is every 2 or 3 years when I put a new battery in it. And the lume outshines all of my watches, brand new or not. Was such a good purchase 20 years ago.
Or more commonly known as the “Ray Donovan”
Hi Richy, I couldn't agree more. I too have the Omega Seamaster 300M Quartz watch. It's the one watch in my collection that I wear the most and could never sell.
I am also wearing the "original" quartz version of this watch (2264.50) ad love it! I can exchange it with my manual wound Speedy and the Seamaster hold it's time perfectly...
@richycoles do you still wear it? To this day?
This is the one seamaster Omega should have continued developing and evolving. It is a true classic, albeit not a very photogenic one. It needs to be seen in real life to really appreciate the beauty of it, as nothing else does it justice.
I've loved this since the first time I saw one. I like it more than the current models. That was before the prices jumped up, but I've had other priorities. I may get one some day, unless Omega comes out with something very cool for the anniversary this year.
the current models are the worst, making a 90s design more tacky than ever
This reference has so many design points that delight. It was marked out many years ago as a future classic and still has that appeal.
Great review! This watch punches way above it's weight. Aside from resale value it's much better IMO than a similar year submariner. Rolex fans who complain about Omega current size being too big should definitely look into one of these.
Totally agree, i prefer this model than current one, that are too glossy and I don't like the skeleton hands.
Congratulations for a great video. Thanks.
I have to agree with you , Fratello : This Seamaster is a killer ! And I must say that I have an Speedmaster (reduced) , an Submariner, and an Navitimer , but my preference is always the Seamaster. I use it for my work as an airline pilot, and for social meetings as well. I love it! Take care, and liked a lot your review ! Cheers from Brazil.
which seamaster reference do you have Gustavo?
I recently put my 20 year old version on a Forstner flatlink bracelet. Gives it that extra "big triangle" vintage appearance. Looks great.
Great review.
I have the 36mm version (Ref 2252.50.00) which I got for a bargain a few years ago. It’s a great alternative for smaller wrists and the only difference other than the obvious size, is the lack of lume next to the date window.
The skeletonised Bond version was far more popular when these were both released, but these references with their Speedmaster style bracelets have aged far better in my opinion. The lume layout is a great homage to the mil-spec grand fathers and the milled clasp was a whole generation ahead of Rolex’s stamped clasps at the time.
The only drawback I would say is the lack of tapering on the bracelet - but that’s every Seamaster, meh.
I own a Peter Blake full size Automatic adore it. Bought it many many years back used for £800 with box & papers. One of my best purchases ever. Love the black date window and sword hands. My everyday is a Pierce Brosnan full size automatic. The accuracy of the movements are amazing and they are ultra slim. Rolex Subs were so cheap back when I bought my Peter Blake - but I bought this instead as it had far more character and is individual. It was only made for a short period of time too so will become rare. I have seen the Peter Blake with a UK army squadron logo on the back so there were some made for UK army units.
I have the Seamaster Pro 300 2252.50 which is 36mm midsize and very elegant. I love it. I love to wear it.
I have the 2231.80 which is the titanium version of the Peter Blake with the electric blue sunburst wave dial and titanium bezel insert with blue infilled numerals. It is so light and slim you forget you are wearing it sometimes. The titanium is all brushed so its a real stealth watch. It came with the Bond bracelet in Ti but also came with the Omega OEM Seamaster blue rubber strap. If you want to fit a current reference 42mm Seamaster's rubber strap to a neo vintage 41mm version all you need to do is used curved spring bars for a perfect fit.
I also have the 2534.50 GMT version of the Peter Blake. Black matte wave dial, sword hands, red GMT hand and bi-coloured bezel insert. Though in stainless steel it still shares a much thinner case than more modern offerings. The one point of interest about this watch is that although rated to 300m it does NOT have the helium escape valve so has very clean lines. My example's aluminium bezel insert was originally black over silver but all the black has faded to a ghostly dark blue with faded silver. It's a stunning look on it. These references do everything a GMT Master does but at 15-20% of the price but with 300m WR.
It’s an awesome watch. I’ve got one new in 2002. It’s been pretty much daily wearer since then (more lately the Speedy and Exp II get a brief wear every now and again). Robustness, aesthetics, weight all great. Very reliable. It had it’s first service in 2019 when the main spring had enough..
Hey Nacho! I owe a 2001 2054.50 (bond bracelet) 100% restored, work horse! As you said the best tool watch produced by Omega. Regards from Colombia.
Beautiful video. My favourite Seamaster, too, but I might be a bit biased as I’m wearing one. I also take mine diving like you.
This reference was the first Omega I purchased. I really enjoy this watch. It wears very comfortable on a bracelet, and I perfer the sword hands over the skeleton. I owned a PO and Ceramic SMP but sold both to fund a Tudor Blackbay Chrono. I don't think I could part with this watch though. It's a classic that wears so well that there are times I forgot I have a watch on. Just got mine serviced, and it looks great and is running well within COSC standards. Good luck with yours, and thanks for the video!
I have the same watch with the steel bezel and blue dial. I have owned this watch for almost 20 years, it has lived in the water - do to my job (commercial lobster diver in the Bahamas)
This thing is rock solid! No complaints, I did however send the watch back to Omega for repair which was completely my fault, Omega fixed the watch buffed it like new sent back with no charge to me. Shout out to Omega!!! They are awesome!
I had a two tone of this one
I loved the thin dimensions and the lume was incredible
Bought the mid size version (36.25mm) of the same in 2007 from local AD and still loving it.
Great video Nacho! Informative and on point! This might be the best smp design ever, in my opinion 😁🙌🏻
I would love to own a good quality version today. I am looking every day. I am sold on this watch for sure at the age of 65. Hoping to find and wear this watch for a long time..........Thanks for the great video.
I bought this reference 5 years ago and have loved it ever since - its my go to watch when I go out. thanks for your video
Great wrist watch! This was my first OMEGA. I’ve since sold it but I definitely plan to rebuy it one day.
In short; yes, the 2254 is the best SMP out there.
This is my go to piece in my collection, which includes an orange bezel 2500 series Planet Ocean, a new Tudor Ranger and Seiko Turtle, as well as several vintage pieces. I’ve had my 2254 for about 10 years and still love the look and feel every time I put it on. I also have the genuine Omega Rubber strap for it, but somehow it just doesn’t suit me on that option.
I remember reading that article where you referred to the 12’o’clock as a delicious slice of pizza… lol!!! Awesome article and great video, cheers!
Who knew pizza would also be great on a watch?!
Had one, such a nice piece.
Enjoyed this Nacho. You are a natural. Not every fish can say the same
I have the blue variant with polished bezel; that appears in the ad you put up in the video. I bought it used and have had it over 15 years. It's STILL my favorite Omega. Good call 👍
Totally agree and that is why I have 4 versions of this watch. The Titanium with the Electric Blue dial is amazing too. Also love the Americas Cup version with the white gold bezel. Best watch to actually wear both on bracelet as well as different strap versions. Great video by the way. To the point and not too long !
Best looking watch ever
yes it is!!! its also my favorite. i got the quartz version 2264.50.00 is the best and nobody talks about it. its thin, got great lume and its ready to go if i have to leave quick. best dressy diver ever that u can take anywhere. got mine in 2006 from JOMA for $1049 NEW. Today you cant get them for under $2K i think the 2254.50.0 / 2264.50.00 came out in 1998
For a brief time, maybe a year or two, the Seamaster model number 2054.50.00 preceded the 2254.50.00. The only difference was the 2054 had the Seamaster "Bond" bracelet, afterwards going with the Speedmaster design bracelet on the 2254. The 2054 is the version I bought (and still have), circa 2001. The Bond bracelet is very comfortable to wear.
The 2054/2254 rotating bezel, with scalloped edges, has been criticized as harder to turn with wet hands, or diving gloves. I've not experience this difficulty with wet hands. Also, a coin edge style bezel works like a circular saw blade on a long sleeved shirt cuff, if wearing as an everyday watch. The scalloped edges haven't been a problem with long sleeved shirt cuffs that I've worn over the years. I've had other watches that frayed my shirt cuffs.
As to the 1960s Royal Navy Seamaster 300, if I recall correctly (IIRC), there was a civilian version and a military version (very, very expensive now). I have a model 165.024, the civilian version. Again, IIRC, the Royal Navy (RN) published a design specification for a diving watch used by their service. Omega's military Seamaster 300 design, of that time, follows the drawings in this specification. For a brief time, the RN used the Omega Seamaster 300, followed by CWC's dive watches. A more detailed history can be found by online searches, probably more accurate as well. The 2054/2254 design looks like a direct descendant of the 1960s Seamaster 300.
Very fine watches... highly recommended.
Just ordered this on Ebay. You have the best video on it, nicely done.
In 2009 I bought the medium size quartz version of this watch as a birthday gift for my mother. They also had the 41mm automatic 2254 available. At that time it became increasingly difficult to find it at dealers and I will always regret to not having bought it. Epitome of a tool watch.
Totally agree. I have owned 11 Seamasters including the Polaris 386.0822.1 quartz multifunction and the latest 300m coaxials but have sold them all and kept only the 2254. It is the perfect Omega IMHO.
Why they went away from those hands is a mystery. Overall, its the nicest looking Seamaster that has been made. Omega has the worst design decisions and all of their watches are just so thick now.
i totally agree......I have two older PO's, one with the orange aluminum bezel and the limited edition liquid metal, and they look better than anything they currently offer
I think the reason they went away from the sword hands is simply sales. The Brosnan 300 did so well and the look was so iconic it would only help them to meet the demands of the popular vote. Sometimes I like the sword look but the skeleton is definitely more modern approach.
Agree, one of the key reasons i dont like seamaster 300
They wanted to appeal to the 90’s audience and for some reason never thought to change it for the modern consumer. The modern SM300 is an eyesore, it looks like a fashion brand mall watch or a TAG.
@@ozzy1154 I get if you don't like the current Seamaster but to say it looks like a Tag is like saying Rolex sub looks like an Invicta. There are so many details in the Seamaster that are overlooked just because the case is thicker and people don't like the bracelet. For example the modern interpretation of the wave dial. Marvelous industrial design.
Bought this watch in 1999. Still my favorite watch in the collection.
Dying in a shootout with pirates on a conservation mission is the way I wanna go
Heroic! 😄
I've had this Seamaster model for decades and it still runs maybe three seconds fast every couple of days. I got a "knock off" rubber strap for it that is just as good as the actual Omega strap and was less than $75. It fits perfectly and looks great. I do wish that its steel bracelet was more quicky adjustable. I also have the original Speedmaster "Sapphire Sandwich" and its braclet clasp at least has a one step adjustment which the Seamaster's doesn't.
Great watch, I have had one since 2001 and still love it. Well done for this video!
Great video! Love the 2254.50!
my first ever watch purchased 2004 and till today l keep getting compliments on how cool it looks and if l would sell it ? never taken it off and never will sell it .....👌🏼
Interesting reference, thanks!
watching this while wearing my 2254, I love it so much!
This reference is only beat out by the 2030.50 as the king of the neovintage SMP
Oh yes this is the best one out there. A bloody bargain aswell👍
I own the James Bond automatic, it’s comfortable and slim, goes under any cuff, but yours is beautiful also. Anything made by Omega is beautiful and known through out the world. Wouldn’t part with mine, whatsoever, cheers Matt✌️👍
I also reviewed thIs Seamaster in the early days of my channel where I outlined my pros and cons. The sword hands are nice, but I wish the minute hand was a baton hand instead of also being a sword. Great review!
Fantastic watch and review
Love this model! I hope Omega will re-introduce it.
I love mine. I have no interest in a skeleton hand Seamaster.
The titanium reference 2231.50 is also beautiful.
These early ETA SMP's truly are the best wearing modern Seamasters! Hard to go wrong with one, but the sword hands version is by far the most timeless
I 100% agree! I own the Americas Cup limited edition from 2000 with white gold bezel which is based on this watch! It’s the most comfortable Seamaster ever with the right proportions and that caliber 1120 runs as accurate as a co-axial. They don’t build them like this anymore!
Love the titanium version even more. Great review.
I have the reference 2264.50, as the only quartz in my collection, with the same case, bracelet and almost the same dial. The lume on the dial is great and it fits in nicely with my 2231.80 as a mechanical option. These older Seamaster still offer a lot of value for money, as the new models RRP goes forever upwards........
I received a 2264 for my 21st birthday and I've been smitten with it ever since. I know we are all about mechanical movements, but the convenience and accuracy of quartz cannot be beaten. Combined with the fact that it sits nicely under a shirt cuff, it defines what it means to have a "daily driver".
@@ericdhadden Yes I agree completely. Mechanical movements are all I'm really interested in, except for the 1993 on Omega quartz for some irrational reason. These are well built, easy to wear watches that offer so much for the money.
I’ve had a quartz version and I love it. Set it and go!
Got this model in January this year. Been on my wrist 5 days a week since then.
My first and only Omega... Not pretentious, just a solid stylish watch.
Love to have one. I do have the 2255 which h is the same but with the electric blue dial. It has a lot of being but classic at the same time. They wear as comfortable as a dress watch.
I own one .... and just love it!!!
My wife bought me the quartz version and it is my favorite even if I own other automatic watch.
Although it seems crazy to say, it's pretty subtle for a dive watch. I've seen so many stories on forums of owners getting too used to it and selling it to their later regret. For me, that Big Triangle and sword hands combination has never gotten old, and I think I prefer it to the original BT SMP (the numbers on the BT dial make it too busy for me).
And lets not forget that this watch is Ray Donovan's choice. The character wore it in the first couple of seasons of this great show. The rugged watch stood up well to all the baseball bat beatings Ray had to dish out.
I Love this, I own this and I modded this :-) so it is a great neo Vintage Diver with some personal design elements. It is one of my Core „Go anywhere do everyching“ watches.
What did you do to it? :-)
I was in Denver Colorado at a Chinese restaurant and I saw a guy wearing this watch and I thought that might be the best looking watch because it was chill and not too dressy and it just look the part 100%
Awesome piece👍 good review x
Getting very very pricey now. Like a sub going up. It's nuts. However, a very very nice watch. Sold a 14060 sub years ago and replaced it with the 2254. Diving, skiing, tennis etc. A real tough tool and no worries about getting it stolen.
It's a nice watch, but a key watch in Omega history of the Seamaster is the 165.024. Hopefully they will release a modern re issue of this version as an anniversary tribute.
If released, hopefully it's 40mm or less.
You may want to try on this model or a similar reference if you haven't. They wear much smaller than the numbers suggest and the bracelet is unbelievable.
My favorite Seamaster :)
Aren't 2000's era Omegas just great? I love my 2264.50, 2201.50, and 2503.50. All are keepers.
Not only the best version, it’s the only version
Which strap is mounted on the picture of the video? Is beautiful, I like it, I have a Peter Blake too🎉
Great watch!
The Special service agents, Royal British that you refer to, are what we in Britain call ‘soldiers’. The SAS are recruited from within Britain;s military ranks, but are a branch of the Army no more no less. They aren’t ‘Agents’ of any sort. Watches are issued to soldiers on a ‘needs must’ basis. They aren’t handed out free to all soldiers, but virtually any soldier can request one. I always did, and always wore one. Why do you associate the SAS with the watch brand ‘Omega’? I don’t see and never saw that connection.
I have a 2255.80 and a 2231.50 and absolutely love the titanium weight reduction. I added a 2254 bezel insert because the contrast is necessary. The 55 is simply a dressier version of the 54 but that electric blue dial is something else in the sun. I agree the 2254 is just about the perfect watch. I am glad you brought up the slimness as I think that feature is underrated. I always seem to gravitate back to the slimmer SMP than my co axial AT.
So much better with swords hands and when omega made much more wearable and aesthetically pleasing watches
Check reference 2064 and 2054 and you will see that it was produced on bond bracelet ;)
It’s the bezel ceramic ?
man that table looks shakey lol ... anyways hope something nice comes out for the 75th anniversary :)
2254 was my early, first grail. I use it for swimming. The ultimate one ? My 1963 165.024 no date bakelite. No swimming with that one.
A shootout with pirate's...my man
Name check for the Gringa, one of the only watches I'll never sell
It’s a stunning watch no doubt about that, but I love my Skeleton hands version from 2010, had it from new and it’s going nowhere.
The best Seamaster ever. They can keep the garish behemoths they're making today.
Best watch from my collection. I call it thé sub Killer. I Owned it in 1999. 2 oméga services , Few dinving, many sports with it. I just changed the claps this year. Still shinjing accurate and no fashion victim watch. Easy to wear in Any circumstances.
What else ?
Which. spring bars do you use for the Nato?
Thinking of getting one but it says it’s a 2264.50. Looks the same . Any idea guys ?
2264 has quartz movement
I wish the hands and dial would come back.
好錶...我已收藏一只....讚
Will they reissue it this year?
Are we still expecting a new release from Omega, or are the blue ones the new ones?
The Summer Blue models are the latest ones, but we expect to see more this year.
This starts to feel like a prime example where watch media outlets single out a previously under-the-radar model in order to start a hyper. But why? 🤔
What about we just buy and talk about what we like? What would be the point in spending all this money and capacity otherwise on models you can’t buy new anymore?
Hi Robert - bedankt for your reply 😉 However, I’m just not sure what to make of it (?) I have no problem with you guys spending your money on whatever watches you like, speak about them, and make a living from it (the dream…!) It just struck me - with this model specifically - how you guys have the power to influence the market (A bit like the auction houses, although admittedly at a completely different scale).
If they do the reissue a limited piece I’ll be pissed
IMHO the Seamaster 300 Ref 165.024 with sword hand was the very best Seamaster, it was a real toolwatch far sturdier then the toothpaste cap HeV Helium Escape Valve type watches !
2023 is also 175 years Omega... thus far an Annus Horribilis 🤔🤔🤔 ?
Get Certina DS PH200M instead, unless you want specifically an Omega branded watch