A Deep-Sea Relic: The 1971 Omega Seamaster Ploprof 600 with an Inverted Case Stamp
When it comes to legendary dive watches, few models command the respect and fascination of the Omega Seamaster Ploprof 600. Designed for extreme underwater conditions and worn by professional divers pushing the limits of human exploration, the Ploprof was...
I wasn't aware of the inverted caseback engraving on early models . . .
. . . until just now. It's all 'bout the details, isn't it, Bill? 👏🏼
Probably less than a dozen inverted case back watches. These were part of the prototype run for Comex.
I believe this error was with the original run where the casemaker assumed the crown position to be at 3 when in actual fact the Ploprof crown is at 9. ...
That's the most reasonable explanation . . .
. . . for the inversion. Occasionally inverted Ploprofs show up on forums or for sale, but these are the result of incorrect date wheel installations by uninformed watchmakers. The date wheel for Ploprofs is unique to the reference; date wheels for all ot...
Great write up Bill …
The Ploprof was wonderfully engineered for the harshest environment.
Absolutely.
Key Technical Details: Extreme Pressure Testing: Successfully tested to 1,800 feet with helium immersion. Advanced Waterproofing: Tested to 3,000 feet for an additional safety margin. Monobloc Case: Superior shock resistance and corrosion protection. Crow...
I discussed this watch recently with….
Victor Vescovo, his opinion of this watch was very interesting, He really rates it for its technical ability, even after all these years. ...
Outstanding right up! I always wanted to acquire one of these, but never seem to pull the plug.
By the way, thank you so much for taking a leadership role in our esteemed forum
There is always something new we can learn. There is more.
Thanks for the kind words.
They are few that are all correct. Ask me if you need help there is one expert I rely on knows way more than me.
Few watches in Omega’s lineup have seen so many variations within a single model line. The Ploprof family consists of: 8 different case designs 3 bezel types 6 dial variations At least 5 different handsets 2 movement versions The model’s rarity, historica...
It was expensive at the time but was really used by professional divers.
Omega spared no expense in selecting Uranus steel for the Ploprof's monobloc case—a high-resistance material first used by COMEX in the construction of their deep-sea vessels. Decades later, Rolex adopted the same steel for its own professional-grade watc...
I’m not a dive watch aficionado,
but I love to know the history of watches. And you supplied it. Great post.
The ploprof stands alone a true tool watch. No plexi or risk while in operation.
As you can see the marks in the caseback. Professionals often service an important tool.
Such an interesting write up and true tool-watch!
And interesting historical documents (from the time around my birth year, 1972). I’d love to have the chance to see one of these very early examples someday. Anyway, many thanks, Bill. Best, Emmanuel
I do have in the collection a diver Ploprof watch from 1972.
Would be crazy if the date matched. ...
So close, same month! Pretty crazy indeed.
Delivered to Ecuador makes a lot of sense as this country has a long coastline (and I imagine only a diver would buy that watch at that time).
I learned a lot from this about Omega's very Big Boy.
Thanks Bill. Inverted caseback is indeed fascinating, as are the straps. I occasionally enjoy wearing the (non-monoblock) reissue despite its size and weight. Biggest watch I own. ...
Hey Bill…one of the best posts ever especially for Omega owners!!!
When it comes to tool watches and survival a few may be as good but NONE better. On Solitaire I have had my fair share of unexpected glitches but through it all I never had to worry about my watch and even had to use it to time fuel burn when my house bat...