Omega Basel 2011: Caliber 9300, Seamaster, Speedmaster

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Miranda's Basel 2011 report provides an exclusive, in-depth look at Omega's significant new releases, including the 2012 London Olympics limited edition Seamaster and the innovative Caliber 9300/9301 movements. This article offers crucial insights into Omega's strategic direction, highlighting technical advancements and design choices that shaped their offerings for the coming years. Readers gain a detailed overview of key models and movements, making this a valuable historical snapshot for collectors and enthusiasts.

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Well lets kick off with an exclusive in depth look at the 2012 limited edition: last Olympics in London 1948, coincidently the year the Seamaster was launched. So to celebrate 2012, a new version in steel: in 1948 pieces, price £3,500

solid gold logo back

The new movement: the cal. 9300 and 9301

A fantastic movement, gorgeous to look at and technically proficient, my only concerns are its depth and size, may limit to what it can be out into, as you will see the Speedmaster has to have to Sapphire crystal "boxes" to allow the movement to be housed. Initially in 45mm PO and 44mm Speedmaster ( I do not think we are going to see it in 42mm cases)

The bezels are made from ceramic only.

Changes to the Planet Ocean, all sizes get cal.8500 movement. All get ceramic bezel, only the 45mm titanium has ceramic / liquid metal bezel. New white ceramic for the ladies too, and the pre-requisite bling too

All the bracelets are now screw and pin type.They also all have sapphire crystal back WR to 600m. I think the planet Ocean is now a premium product andOmega have done a terrific job, would I get one over a Sub C, ...certainly,

SpeedmasterS:

Limited edition 40th. Anniv Apollo 15

As is traditional, nice dial in the patch colours:

engraved case back

the new 44.25mm Speedmaster with cal.9300

notice the sapphire crystal back, to accomadate the movement:

prototype with ceramic dial

the production models will have enamel dials.

Seamaster 300:

new ceramic bezels (not liquid metal) and screw pin bracelets. Quartz have been discontinued, but range will not get cal.8500.

Dials are now flat no wave decoration. In my opinion much much improved, I wish they change their mind on the 8500 though. Still an awesome piece though with good price point.

Olymic Aqua Terra: no olympic logo on seconds hand... Thank God

In my opinion much better, they look great, not limited editions.

and finally Omegamatic for the ladies, notice the ceramic in laid into the case:

Best,

Imran

About the Omega Ref. Seamaster300

The Seamaster 300 reference is a re-edition that draws inspiration from Omega's historical dive watches. It is characterized by its robust construction and design elements that pay homage to early professional timepieces, while incorporating modern watchmaking advancements. This reference is positioned as a contemporary interpretation for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics combined with current performance standards.

This particular Seamaster 300 features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 41 mm in diameter. It is equipped with an automatic movement, often a Master Co-Axial caliber, providing a substantial power reserve. The watch is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal, contributing to its vintage appearance while offering enhanced scratch resistance. Its construction ensures a high degree of water resistance suitable for aquatic activities.

For collectors, this reference appeals to those seeking a blend of historical design and modern technical specifications. It represents Omega's commitment to its heritage while offering a reliable and well-engineered timepiece. The Seamaster 300 is a significant part of the brand's contemporary collection, offering a distinct alternative to other models within the Seamaster family.

Specifications

Caliber: Omega 8400

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 41 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 300m

Crystal: Domed sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

A contributor suggested that Omega's focus on 5-year anniversaries for Apollo missions, like the Apollo 15, might be linked to NASA's tradition of bringing surviving crew members to meet the President every five years.
A forum member expressed strong interest in the new Caliber 9300 Speedmaster and the Apollo 15 40th anniversary edition, planning to save for both, and questioned Omega's specific focus on Apollo 15 over other missions.
A user inquired about the availability of non-chronograph models in larger sizes, the size and movement of the ladies' Planet Ocean, and whether the non-chrono versions would also be thick, noting Omega's lack of communication.
A collector appreciated the new Olympic Seamaster and the bi-axial chronograph subdial of the Speedmaster, despite reservations about the Speedmaster's 'boxiness,' and expressed a desire to visit Baselworld.
A forum member praised the report as superb and thorough, but expressed concern that the new Planet Ocean Chronograph's thickness and potential price (possibly higher than the Ploprof) might make it unsuitable for them.
A collector, owning a 42mm Planet Ocean, stated a preference for a solid caseback on a sport watch but acknowledged the appeal of the new 8500 movement, indicating a desire to collect all versions eventually.

The Discussion

AAP

Mar 28, 2011

Thank you!

Wonderful post. Thank you so much for posting this for those of us hanging on every bit of news. Great pictures as well! Alex

garyf

Mar 28, 2011

Thanks!

Finally some good info'. Shame Omega didn't feel the need to communicate it. Do we know the size of the new SMP? Thanks.

ImranLondon

Mar 28, 2011

size same 41.5mm [nt]

No message body

garyf

Mar 28, 2011

Thanks. Sorry but...

Thanks. A couple more quick questions: Do you know if the new non-chronographs only be available in the large size? What size is the ladies' one and will it be offered in the other colours? And does it also get an 8500? Yes, that's right. I am trying to find out if they'll be doing a 42mm ladies one that would make an alternative to the 45.5mm men's one. Btw, is the non-chrono a thickey like the chrono' or is that just down to the 9300? Sorry for all of the questions but Omega doesn't seem inter

ImranLondon

Mar 28, 2011

Hi, all sizes 42-45 will have 8500, thickness due to 9300 :) [nt]

No message body

garyf

Mar 28, 2011

Thanks

Thanks. It appears on your photos that the white POs are two different sizes since the date window appears in different places. Is one of the 42mm? Thanks again for the stirling work.