Omega has released a new Seamaster Diver 300M in celebration of the 50th anniversary of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, George Lazenby’s first and final foray into the Bond fray. Ironically, Lazenby famously purchased his own Rolex before auditioning for the role — he evidently so impressed producer Cubby Broccoli that he was given the part immediately. He then grew disillusioned with the Bond franchise, grew his hair long for the film’s premier (it was 1969, after all), and was promptly dropped from the role forever. Of course, Omega has been featured on Bond’s wrist since 1995’s Goldeneye, so horological (and historical) accuracy be damned!
The new Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Limited Edition uses the 42mm stainless steel Seamaster case and features a black PVD on black ceramic dial, with spiral-brushed “gun barrel design and a 9mm bullet head at the centre.” How it’s possible to discern that this is a 9mm round is difficult to ascertain, though Bond fanatics will undoubtedly raise pitchforks and lit torches at the mere mention of one, as their hero famously brandished a Walther PPK chambered in 7.65mm for much of the franchise’s history.
Back to the Seamaster. The side of each case features an 18k yellow gold plate engraved with the watch’s limited edition number, and yellow gold also features in the design of the hands and indices. Other Bond-ish touches include the Bond family coat of arms features at the 12 o’clock marker and a date window that features a number “7” inspired by the 007 logo. A hidden “50” appears on the 10 o’clock index, visible at night via the illumination of the Super-LumiNova. The watch is Master Chronometer-certified and ships on a black rubber strap in a black box with “gun barrel patterns and bullet head buttons.” Befitting a professional dive watch of this caliber, its case is water-resistant to 300m and features a helium escape valve.
Some Bond fanatics are forever poo-pooing Lazenby’s performance as their antihero, while some consider it (and the film) one of the great treasures in the Fleming catalog (I particularly love the book, myself). It’s low on gadgetry (though high on Evil Lairs), features a genuine love story (which, Spoiler! ends in tragedy), and Lazenby’s performance is subtle and brooding, if nothing else. Regardless of whether you enjoy or detest the film, if you’re a Bond fan (and an Omega fan), the new Seamaster Diver 300M is an exciting launch.
The watch is limited to 7,007 pieces worldwide at a price of $6,500.
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