After my most recent and highly enjoyable Omega watch book purchase of Moonwatch Only, I was very excited to learn of the upcoming release of “From Seamaster to Seamaster“.
I had pre-ordered the book in September, which was later released on October 9th 2018. As an owner of several references of both the Seamaster and Speedmaster, this seemed to make sense!
Having now spent a full week with the book, I thought I’d write a quick review. Mainly to set expectations and offer up my recommendations on if you should buy it for the $150 list price (buy from Amazon for around $90).
First Impressions
The book itself is impressive in size, presence, weight and print quality. The only thing missing was words!

Front & Back of Book

Gradient of Pages from Black to White
To be honest I was a little disappointed, which echoed the first few reviews posted on Amazon (two reviews: one being 1 star and the other 2 stars) by other owners.
After the tour de force that was Moonwatch Only, I was slightly bemused that Omega (the stated author) would follow up with what was effectively a picture book.
Admittedly, my initial review would have also been 2 stars.
However, after sitting down and reading what content there is, I found the small info bites and macro shots of the watches most enjoyable.
No, it’s NOT Moonwatch Only, but then again it’s not trying to be either!
As you’ll see later I have in fact revised my rating to 5 stars, but feel there is still a gap in the market for a more historical recounting of the Semaster for collectors like myself.
We all love to step back in time and see how these watches were designed for actual use, the functions they performed, and notable explorers and celebrities who may have worn a watch in the family or reference we in fact own!
Format & Layout of “From Seamaster to Seamaster”
At 360 pages this is an anchor for any coffee table weighing in at over 5 lbs!
The book is organized into eight sections, with the following names and year references:
- Hope: 1948 – 1960
- Descent: 1958 – 1979
- Highrise: 1967 – 1973
- Boom: 1981 – 1986
- Revolution: 1993 – 2000
- Millennium: 2002 – 2010
- Bond: 2002 – 2017
- Transcendence: 2011 – 2018
Author’s Note: this vintage Seamaster is only 36mm, and I love it! (Even on my 8″ wrist) This was my first “proper” watch, and is going to be in the collection forever…
Stunning Macro Shots & Information Snippets
As stated above the book is light on content and heavy on pictures.
At first I didn’t appreciate this, but am now really enjoying. There are all manner of shots from around the case and strap, not just dials.
Below I’ve included a couple of examples.
Omega Seamaster 300 – Spectre “James Bond”
As many of you will know this was the first “Bond” watch actually worn in the movie that was a public release, limited to 7007 pieces.
I owned this watch for about a year, and you can see my full watch review here from 2015. For some unknown reason I decided to sell it, to make way for something else or release cash, but it’s the only piece I’ve ever regretted selling.
Thus I bought it again this year… And I have no regrets! Sadly, it’s a much higher limited edition number, but shame on me for letting go in the first place! We live and learn, I suppose. Ah, the trials and tribulations of a watch collector..!
Seeing the black and grey NATO strap in all its macro glory, has me immediately changing the summer strap I currently have on the watch after I finish writing this review.
In my opinion, this is the biggest home run from the Seamaster in the modern era.
Would I Buy This Book Again?
After my initial “shock”, I’d 100% buy this book again. The best price I have seen is on Amazon for around $90 (retail price $150)
If you are only in the market for one book and choosing between Moonwatch Only & From Seamaster to Seamaster, I’d personally pick the former due to it’s more meaty content.
On the other hand, if you are really into coffee table books and you’re not a watch history geek to the extent that I am, then this book may be better for you.
It also goes without saying if you own references from either Omega family I’d say get both respective books.
Buy From Amazon: From Seamaster to Seamaster
You can see the current Omega lines here:
If you’re looking for more reading from Bespoke Unit, please check out the links below:
- Moonwatch Only – Book Review
- All Omega Seamaster Reviews
- All Omega Speedmaster Reviews
- Omega Brand Hub / History Page
- Bespoke Unit Watch Homepage
"A visual exploration of some of the world's most influential watches. While I much preferred the Moonwatch Only release, this offers an excellent alternative perspective to the classic references."Rating: 5.0 ★★★★★
Thank you for another great book review Paul.
Think I will go get myself a copy, as I have been looking at getting an Omega Seamaster.
– Kevin
Hi Kevin,
I’ll be sure to let Paul know. I’m looking forward to taking a peak at this book myself!
Best,
CP