Omega launches the 4th generation of the Planet Ocean with a complete redesign and bold, angular surfaces. Explore our overview. Prices from €8,500
Exactly twenty years after the original Seamaster Planet Ocean was launched, Omega’s watchmakers have returned to this emblematic collection to execute a complete, modern revamp. Omega is now introducing the fourth generation of the Planet Ocean.
This redesign features a noticeable architectural update to the case, now measuring 42 mm in diameter, and the bracelet, along with crucial technical updates designed to ensure premium performance and quality.
Despite this thorough transformation, the Planet Ocean’s essential character remains rooted in Oomegas historic ocean DNA, retaining the signature components that have established the collection as an icon in the world of diving watches.
When the Planet Ocean was launched in 2005, it echoed the inspiration of the Seamaster 300 models from the 1960s.
For the 4th generation, Omega has again returned to its Seamaster history, reviewing models from the 1980s and 90s, and borrowing some of their structural concepts. As a result, we see a new “fitted” approach to the watch’s design with sharp and angular surfaces.
This new chapter begins with the unveiling of seven new Co-Axial Master Chronometer models, three different watch heads, with multiple options regarding bracelets or straps.
Three models in Orange, a signature colour of the collection since its introduction in 2005, stand out with their orange ceramic bezel [ZrO2] ring filled with a white hybrid ceramic diving scale and varnished Arabic numerals in matte orange on the dial. Especially for this updated collection, Omega has spent time perfecting its ceramic craftsmanship to achieve a vivid new orange colour.
Choices include a stainless steel bracelet (ref. 217.30.42.21.01.003), black rubber strap (ref. 217.32.42.21.01.003), or orange rubber strap (ref. 217.32.42.21.01.004).
The Black versions sport rhodium-plated Arabic numerals on the dial and a black ceramic bezel [ZrO2] ring filled with a white enamel diving scale. They are available with either a stainless steel bracelet (ref. 217.30.42.21.01.001) or a black rubber strap (ref. 217.32.42.21.01.001).
Finally, the Blue models are distinguished by a blue ceramic bezel [ZrO2] ring filled with a white enamel diving scale along with varnished Arabic numerals in matte white on the dial. Just like the black versions, they can be paired with a stainless steel bracelet (ref. 217.30.42.21.01.002) or a black rubber strap (ref. 217.32.42.21.01.002).
Each dial in the new Planet Ocean collection is matte black. Omega has kept the signature arrowhead hands and the bold applied indexes that are filled with Super-LumiNova, yet one new difference is the Arabic numeral typography.
Although a subtle change, the numerals are now open-work and squarer, with a sharper look to match the case and bracelet. It’s also a nod to the original Planet Ocean, which also featured open-work numerals.
Made in two parts, the case includes the main stainless steel body and an inner titanium ring, which provides the material strength required to seal the watch when diving at depth.
The inner ring was an aesthetic part of the Planet Ocean in 2005 and the Seamaster 300 of the 1960s. With this new technical design, Omega has been able to keep the same look, but also give the inner ring a functional benefit that is suitable for the watch’s 600m water-resistance.
Thanks to the flat sapphire crystal on the front and a careful streamlining across the entire case and bezel, the total thickness has been reduced to just 13.79 mm, compared to the 16.1 mm thickness of the standard 3rd generation models.
To better suit the new design, Omega has also removed the helium escape valve. Water resistance is rated at 60 bar (600 metres / 2,000 feet).
Instead of sapphire crystal, the new Planet Ocean watches now feature screw-in casebacks made from Grade 5 Titanium. This choice also helped to refine the dimensions of the watch, while reducing weight and enhancing strength. The caseback design features a waved edge, along with PLANET OCEAN and SEAMASTER engravings, a mention of the water-resistance, and the iconic Omega Seahorse emblem engraved at the centre.
Behind the solid caseback, the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8912, previously used in the Ultra Deep models, operates at a frequency of 3.5 Hz (25,200 vibrations per hour).
This state-of-the-art self-winding movements offer 60 hours of power reserve and meet the highest standard of precision, performance, and magnetic resistance, as approved by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS).
With the case shape changed, the Planet Ocean bracelets also required a transformation. They now appear uniquely integrated into the case and reveal a series of flat links, with two brushed outer rows and one polished row at the centre. They are equipped with Omega’s extra diver extension and adjustable to six positions.
The rubber straps are secured to the wrist by a foldover clasp.
The blue and black models are priced at €8,500 / US$8,600 with a rubber strap or €9,200 / US$9,200 with a steel bracelet, while the orange versions retail at €8,800 / US$8,900 with a rubber strap or €9,400 / US$9,500 with a stainless steel bracelet. Stay tuned for our hands-on review in few days. omegawatches.com
I like it with the bracelet, but I’d prefer it to be fully brushed. Polished surfaces are a pain on a diver’s watch.
ReplyDeleteI'll go with the rubber-strap version
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