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DrStrong
[Rolex Moderator]
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Deep Down it's Beautiful...

I have finally found the Seamaster 600 Ploprof that I had been hunting for quite some time now...man this is a beast !

Launched in 1970, the Ploprof is the Omega counterpart to the Rolex Sea Dweller - Poprof stands for “Plongeur Professionnel” - but the one piece case does not need a gas escape valve as helium cannot penetrate it.

Here's a picture that illustrates the complexity of the case structure:

I was looking for an early version with original dial, hands, bezel, etc...and I must say that it really makes a difference compared to a watch with "modern" service parts.

The mk1 dial - it is dark blue, but so dark that it seems to be black - is quite rare to find in decent condition, as it does not age well at all. That's why Omega replaced it very soon by another variant that says "Professional Seamaster 600" instead of "Seamaster 600 Professional". The hands too are specific to the early model.

The bulletproof case has sharp edges, it's definitely a toolwatch...And look at the thickness of the bezel !

The winding crown is secured by a very clever system that I have never seen on another watch

The bezel too is locked by a very unusual red button

The large bakelite bezel is designed to estimate the diving time, this one definitely shows scars of its adventurous life !

This very interesting vintage ad mentions the JANUS II experiment performed by Comex in 1970.

(credit: Omega)

The aim of this experiment was to test the ability of divers to work during several hours at -250m, breathing special gas mixtures. The Comex divers were using Ploprofs during this project, for this purpose about 10 watches had been delivered to Comex by Omega with special case engravings.

The experiments took place in Corsica and was a great sucess, it was soon followed by other experiments where Rolex watches were involved.

(Photo: Comex)

Here's a Comex diver wearing a Ploprof during another project in Labrador, some times later in the 1970's

(Photo: Comex)

Other professional divers have used the ploprof in these early days, for example here's a picture showing Albert Falco - a famous member of the Calypso crew who has worked many years with Jaqcues Yves Cousteau - wearing a ploprof over his wetsuit: 

(screen capture by Jean Michel)

The ploprof is a rugged sportswtatch that is also a terrific piece of design, you are allowed to wear it if you’re not a professional diver… here’s a picture of Giani Agnelli wearing is Poprof over hi shirt in the late 1970's…I have to try this someday !

In conclusion, the ploprof is not only a great piece of design that will catch the eye of the guy next to you on the beach this summer....it's above all a piece of history, a legendary toolwatch that leveled  the Rolex Submariner and Blancpain Fifty Fathoms in the conquest of the depths!

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