On the eve of the 24th James Bond movie Spectre, I wanted to showcase the Omega Seamaster 300 Specter watch and why I bought it.
Here is a great BBC article covering the world premier of the movie from London this week.
This is somewhat of a special release for Omega, as it’s the 20th anniversary of the brands affiliation with the Bond franchise.
We first saw Bond with an Omega back in 1995 when Pierce Brosnan starred in Goldeneye. See the full 20 year history from Omega on their official site here.
Further, this can be considered somewhat of a landmark piece for the Bond franchise, as it’s the first watch to be worn by Bond in the movie and was also sold to the general public.
Read why I actually bought the watch below, but first…
Official Omega Spectre Watch Video
So Why Did I Buy The Watch?
Ever since I was a boy growing up in England I’ve been a huge Bond fan. Whether it was watching the movies or being on the river Thames looking at MI6, there is certain an allure to the action, ladies, and secret life of Bond that appeals to many a man.
There are a number of reasons why I actually decided to buy the watch, however it may come as somewhat of a surprise to learn that the main reason was that the piece is understated, and under “007’ed.” Below is an example of what I’m referring to:
For me this is just a little to “cheesy” and over the top with all the 007’s on the face. But that may have just been a 90’s thing.
As this is now the fourth outing for Daniel Craig, the franchise has taken a much more gritty approach to the storylines, and in my opinion, a more realistic approach to the action in the movies. This Spectre watch is understated, has a nice retro / vintage vibe, and is highly usable with a depth rating of 300m and bi-direction bezel.
This Spectre watch is basically the same as a standard Omega Seamaster 300, with some slight changes. The main one being the “lollipop” second hand, and if you removed the NATO strap this would pretty much be the only outward distinguishing feature.
The only other Bond’ed areas are:
- NATO Strap: 007 on one of the metal loops
- Metal Strap: 007 on buckle
- Case Back: has Spectre and 007, along with the limited edition number
Omega’s Commercial Push Of The Watch
Omega is going after this one in a big way. Below I have showcased the email they sent out and their Lifetime magazing.
Omega has 7,007 of the Seamaster 300 Spectres, while they have 15,007 of the other Aqua Terra 150m Spectre watch (which can be seen here, and in my honest opinion is on the cheesy side. But the case back is 100% amazing, with it’s gun barrel spiral!) to sell.
Official Release Email
Omega is really pushing this one, and rightly so as it’s a superb watch, with a great movement.
Omega Lifetime Magazine
Further, Omega dedicated their entire Lifetime magazine to the film.
The Watch – Omega Seamaster 300 Spectre
Below you will see a number of pictures of the watch and its (large) box. Some of the details are:
Watch itself: Omega Seamaster 300
- Watch Width: 41mm
- Movement: Omega Calibre Co-Axial 8400
- Anti-Magnetic: 15,000 gauss
- Case Back: Display, showcasing the stunning movement
- Water Resistance: 300m
- Second Hand: Lollipop
- Standard Strap: Black and gray NATO
- Additional Strap: Stainless Omega strap with “007” engraved
- Strap Width: 20mm
- Box Lock Combination: “007”
- Accessories:
- Additional spring bars
- Magnifying loop
- Spring bar tool
The only thing I don’t like about the watch is its thickness, especially when worn with the NATO strap as that adds about an additional 4mm. I have an 8″ wrist, so I can imagine this may be a slight sticking point for a person with a smaller wrist.
A very enjoyable and comprehensive review can be found at Fratello Watches (note some amazing pictures of the piece are there too!).
Pictures Of The Watch & Box
Final Thoughts
Having worn the watch now for several weeks I’m very happy to add it to my collection.
I was looking for a smart / casual watch that could take a beating as my everyday piece. This fits the bill, and scratched the itch of wanting a modern Bond watch (even though it has vintage styling).
It is limited to 7,007 pieces, but I would not imagine it will be overly hard to come by in an Omega Boutique, or on the second hand / grey market.
Oh, one last thought. I hope the movie is actually good!
How much in aus ?
I just did a quick conversion, if Omega holds the conversion true it will be about $10,600 Australian Dollars ($7,500 USD).
Great watch and what a great movie! #007
I have to agree on both points.
Personally, I’ve had the watch for several weeks now and been really enjoying it “on the wrist”.
Then just caught the movie this past weekend during it’s US release, and thoroughly enjoyed.
Very informative article. Thanks a lot. I have picked up one Seamaster 300 ProfessionalJames Bond limited edition ( one that has 007gun logo on the second hand). I was looking for bracelet/ strap width details of this watch as I am keen on getting different nato straps without paying a huge amount for Omega natos.
Thanks again. I shall look forward to many such informative articles.
Best regards
Hi Siddhartha,
Great to hear that you enjoyed the article! Excellent choice is timepiece too!
Best,
CP