The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M first debuted in 1993 and has remained a cornerstone of the collection ever since. As its name suggests, the 42-mm diving watch is water-resistant to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft). In contrast to its retro sibling model, the Seamaster 300, the Diver 300M boasts more modern lines. Its dial features applied luminous indices, a wave-like pattern, and skeletonized sword hands likewise coated in luminous material. These characteristics, together with the gently curved contours of the case and bezel, give the watch a dynamic, contemporary look.
Another distinctive characteristic of this model is the additional crown at 10 o’clock, which serves as a helium escape valve – an indispensable professional feature for saturation diving.
The widespread popularity of the Seamaster Diver 300M can in part be credited to its connection with the most famous British secret agent to date: James Bond. The model has been part of Bond’s standard kit since the 1995 film GoldenEye. It should come as no surprise, therefore, that the collection includes a number of limited and special editions dedicated to 007. In addition to the various Bond models on offer, you also have the choice between various color combinations, materials, and functionality. For example, the collection is home to variants with a chronograph, GMT, or regatta timer as well as some set with gemstones.
The Perennial Classic: The Diver 300M Ref. 210.30.42.20.01.001
One Diver 300M reference that is particularly popular among Chrono24 users is the 210 30.42.20.01.001. This timepiece boasts a stainless case, black dial, black bezel, and five-piece link stainless steel bracelet. The majority of the case has a brushed finish, bar the curved lug edges and crown guard, both of which are polished. The sides of the bracelet’s middle links are likewise polished.
Both the dial and bezel insert of this diver are made of black ceramic. The latter features a diving scale in white enamel. The signature wave-like dial engravings are achieved with the help of a laser. This technology gives the texture a precise look that only further contributes to the overall high-quality feel of the timepiece. The dial is protected by a domed, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. You’ll find the same material on the display case back, affording you a view of Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber 8800 at work inside. The movement is resistant to magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss and offers a 55-hour power reserve as well as a date function with a window at 6 o’clock.
Prices for an Omega Seamaster Diver 300M ref. 210.30.42.20.01.001 are roughly $4,300 on Chrono24. That represents a 20% savings from the official list price of $5,400. If you think you may want to resell the watch at some point down the line, you don’t have to worry about it losing value. Prices on the secondary market have remained very stable in recent years, with a gentle upward trend. Prices rose by around $250 from December 2021 to December 2022.
You’ll also find the version on a black rubber strap under the ref. 210.30.42.20.01.001. This watch sells for several hundred dollars less on Chrono24.
Beyond Black
Omega also offers a wide range of tones other than black in the Seamaster Diver 300M collection. The ref. 210.30.42.20.03.001 with a blue dial and bezel is a popular choice. This watch was worn by actor Pierce Brosnan in his role as 007. The 210.30.42.20.06.001, on the other hand, pairs a blue bezel with a silver-gray dial.
If blue isn’t your color, be sure to check out the olive green ref. 210.30.42.20.10.001 that debuted in 2022. There are also versions with a black bezel and white dial, as well as the so-called Nekton Edition with a black dial and titanium bezel.
In addition to stainless steel watches, the Seamaster Diver 300M collection is also home to variants in gold, titanium, and ceramic. Moreover, you’ll find two-tone watches in stainless steel and yellow or rose gold.
Prices for models with blue or black-and-white color schemes are in a similar range to those for watches with a black dial and bezel, at around $4,300. Expect prices between $5,700 and $6,000 for the Nekton Edition and the model with a green dial. If you’re interested in a gold watch, prices jump even further. You can find two-tone watches on Chrono24 for upward of $7,000, while solid gold watches start around $24,000.
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Bond Editions
As mentioned above, the Seamaster Diver 300M has been Jame Bond’s watch of choice since 1995. Omega regularly releases special editions of the watch in honor of this unique relationship.
A recent example of this is the ref. 210.90.42.20.01.001, the watch released in tandem with the Bond flick No Time To Die. This titanium timepiece features a high-domed sapphire crystal and an aluminum bezel insert and dial. The latter’s brownish hue is reminiscent of the famed tropical dials found on certain vintage watches. The luminous material on the hands and indices is kept in a coordinating orange tone. Another special feature of this timepiece is the so-called Broad Arrow, a symbol used by the British government to mark its property since the 15th century. You’ll find this symbol engraved into the titanium case back, as well as just above the 6 o’clock position on the dial side. Expect to pay just shy of $9,000 for this watch on a Milanese bracelet. You can save around $1,000 if you opt for a NATO strap instead.
If you’re looking for an authentic Bond experience, be sure to check out the ref. 2541.80. This timepiece was the first Diver 300M worn by 007 in the 1995 hit GoldenEye. It features a blue dial and blue aluminum bezel and is powered by the ETA 255.461 caliber. Budget some $3,600 for an example in mint condition.
