Round-UpIntroducing Omega’s 2022 Novelties That Shine The Spotlight On Their Watchmaking Ethos

Talk to any watch aficionado and the conversation will be incomplete without the mention of Omega. A brand that has built credibility and recall value over decades of being in the watchmaking business; even pioneering the use of new materials and introducing groundbreaking technology in their movements—the most famous being the Speedmaster or the Moonwatch—the first watch to be worn in space in 1962. Over the last 170 years, Omega have been consistently churning out timepieces that are exceptional in their own right, under the four main collections or pillars of the brand: Constellation, Seamaster, Speedmaster and De Ville. Here’s a look at their 2022 highlights that celebrate haute horlogerie at its finest.

Seamaster: Strengthening Omega’s Diving Legacy

Seamaster Planet Ocean Ultra Deep

The Seamaster is one of the most illustrious collections from Omega, known for its reliability underwater. Between 1940 and 1945, Omega delivered more than 1,10,000 timepieces to the British Ministry of Defence (MOD), which were highly valued for their water resistance and reliability in combat. A demand for a peacetime application of this robust technology led to the creation of the Seamaster in 1948—now their highly sought-after line of dive watches, popular with sportspersons, athletes, and adventurers. Over the years, several models and lines have been introduced within this core collection—each offering a unique perspective on dive watches whether in terms of material innovation, robustness, durability, supreme engineering or outstanding water-resistance. In 2019, the original Ultra Deep made an appearance, offering indestructible features such as: a case completely forged out of grade-5 titanium, robust ‘Manta lugs’ that provided an ingenious way of securing the watch, and a sapphire face with a conical load-bearing design, inspired by a submersible’s viewport. In April of that year, three Ultra Deep watches joined explorer Victor Vescovo on a mission to the bottom of the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean. Originally recorded as 10,925m (35,843 ft), the depth was later updated to 10,935m (35,876 ft), and is the deepest any human or watch has ever dived. Two of the Ultra Deep watches were attached to the submersible’s robotic arm, while another was strapped to a data-gathering unit known as a Lander. Thanks to their ingenious build and design, all three watches completed the 12-hour dive without a problem and surfaced completely unscathed. This year, Omega have paid tribute to their diving legacy with new Ultra Deep watches, crafted in either grade-5 titanium or O-MegaSteel. This is a brand new stainless steel alloy developed by Omega, which is nickel-free, is hypoallergenic, offers better resistance to corrosion, and more shine when compared to regular steel. The 45.5mm watches are water-resistant to 6,000m (20,000 ft), and the titanium version features a brushed ceramic bezel with Liquidmetal, and an asymmetrical case that is reminiscent of the original Ultra Deep model. It is presented on a striped NATO strap, in cyan and black, made from polyamide yarn, sourced from 100 percent recycled fishing nets. The steel model comes in a robust case, topped by a ceramic bezel that features a diving scale, as well as a protruding, domed sapphire crystal, which is neatly bevelled and designed for maximum strength to withstand the pressure while underwater. A new crown guard is also integrated to the watch’s case, assuring protection under greater depths. The choices include white or gradient-effect dials, which transition from grey-to-black or blue-to-black, and include a glossy finish as well as 18-karat, white gold hands and indexes. Each model is presented either on a rubber strap or an O-MegaSteel bracelet. These dive timers are powered by the co-axial master chronometer calibre 8912, which guarantees the highest standards of precision, performance and magnetic-resistance.

Seamaster Diver 300M Co-Axial Master Chronometer 42mm

Since its launch in 1993, the Omega Seamaster Professional Diver 300M, has become a favourite with sportspersons, athletes, divers and was even strapped onto the wrist of Hollywood actor, Pierce Brosnan for the first time in the 1995 film—GoldenEye—where he essayed the role of the suave, British secret agent, James Bond. While this dive timer was available in dial options of blue, black, white or grey, this year the brand have introduced a version with a deep green dial that stands out against a stainless steel framework. This is also in sync with the colour of the season, as was spotted in many novelties launched during this year’s edition of Watches and Wonders. Apart from the verdant hue, the dial features a ‘wave’ pattern with the date window at six o’clock, and is topped by a unidirectional rotating bezel with a polished green ceramic ring with a grand feu white enamel diving scale. The skeleton hands and raised indexes are rhodium-plated and are filled with white Super-LumiNova, while the helium escape valve has been given a conical design. This robust sports watch has a polished, brushed stainless steel bracelet, with a new integration to the case, giving it a dress watch feel. However, those wanting a sportier look can choose an integrated green rubber strap, which complements the dial. Water-resistant to 300m, it is driven by Omega’s co-axial master chronometer calibre 8800, visible through the sapphire crystal on the caseback.

This year, Omega have introduced the Seamaster Professional Diver 300M with a deep green dial that stands out when paired with its robust stainless steel framework

Water-resistant to 300m, it is driven by Omega’s co-axial master chronometer calibre 8800, visible through the sapphire crystal on the caseback

Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M (38mm, 34mm)

Providing the ultimate balance between elegance and a casual appeal, Omega’s Seamaster Aqua Terra is a highly versatile timekeeper, which can be worn both on land or water. The symmetrical style is a favourite with those who love simplicity, while the precision inside assures supreme performance. This year’s novelties in this range are high on colour with a range of new dial shades that celebrate a smooth transition from ocean to earth. There are two sizes—38mm with dials in blue, green, sandstone, saffron and terracotta; and 34mm editions with dials in options of blue, green, sandstone, pink and lavender. These gorgeous dials are crafted from brass, are sun-brushed from the centre, with rhodium-plated hands and indexes on the 38mm models, and 18-karat white gold hands and indexes on the 34mm versions.

With cases and bracelets crafted entirely in stainless steel, all models feature trapezoidal or circular date windows at six o’clock. The powerhouse running the show here is Omega’s master chronometer calibre 8800—a self-winding movement with co-axial escapement. It is a certified master chronometer, approved by METAS, is resistant to magnetic fields reaching 15,000 gauss, and provides a power reserve of 55 hours. It also features a free sprung-balance with silicon balance spring, automatic winding in both directions, and rhodium plated bridges with Geneva waves decoration in arabesque.

The 34mm editions come with dials in options of blue, green, sandstone, pink and lavender

These gorgeous dials are crafted from brass, are sun-brushed from the centre, with 18-karat white gold hands and indexes on the 34mm versions

All Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M editions in 34mm feature a circular date window at the six o'clock position

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Constellation: Material Innovation Meets Precision

Constellation Co-Axial Master Chronometer 41mm

Launched in 1952 as a tribute to the several precision records that Omega achieved in the 20th century, the Constellation is one of Omega’s oldest collections. What started out as a chronometer for men back then has undergone several transformations—from the signature pie-pan dials, to the ultra-slim quartz watches of the 1970s, to the revamped design in 1982 with its hallmark ‘claws’ on the bezel. Today, the Constellation watches are fitted with master chronometer movements, and are available in contemporary materials while retaining their famous ‘half-moon’ or ‘claws’ on the case. The new model comes in a 41mm stainless steel case with a polished blue ceramic bezel with Roman numerals in grand feu white enamel, a white ceramic dial and a date window at the six o’clock position. The hands, the brand logo, the Constellation star and facetted indexes are all in blue. While the choice of materials may seem conventional, the durability offered by stainless steel is often unmatched, especially when it comes to watches for either daily-use or high-stress situations such as diving and adventure. This combined with ceramic makes for a winning combination since ceramic is two times lighter than stainless steel, hardwearing, highly scratch-resistant, chemically inert, hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly and non-magnetic. This watch is presented on a blue leather strap with rubber lining, and is driven by Omega’s self-winding movement calibre 8900 with a co-axial escapement. This certified master chronometer is resistant to magnetic fields reaching 15,000 gauss and offers a 60-hour power reserve.

Constellation Aventurine 29mm

These resplendent 29mm models have dials made from natural Aventurine stone, which means no two dials are ever alike. Aventurine is the name given to an authentic quartz mineral created by natural forces under the Earth’s surface. The shimmering appearance of the gemstone is due to light reflections coming from the multiple shaped inclusions known as mica and hematite, which create a glittering effect on its surface. This new range has 12 editions in stainless steel with Sedna gold bezels or cases crafted entirely in Sedna gold. All of them feature aventurine dials in either green, red or blue. One also has the option to choose from bezels paved with diamonds or engraved with Roman numerals. Replacing the famous mono-rang bracelet found in Constellation watches are leather straps in hues that match the dial. The trio featured here have diamond-set bezels, skeletonised hour and minute hands, and are presented on leather straps in glossy blue, red or green. And these watches are not just pretty faces; they are driven by powerful mechanics—Omega’s automatic co-axial master chronometer calibre 8700, or 8701 for the all-gold models—visible through the domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and keep them ticking for at least 50 hours when fully wound.

The Constellation Aventurine trio featured here have diamond-set bezels, skeletonised hour and minute hands, and are presented on leather straps in glossy blue, red or green

The 29mm case is crafted from Sedna gold, topped by a diamond-set bezel

Replacing the famous mono-rang bracelet found in Constellation watches are leather straps for the Constellation Aventurine timepieces in hues that match the dial

These resplendent 29mm models have dials made from natural Aventurine stone, which means no two dials are ever alike

The shimmering appearance of the gemstone is due to light reflections coming from the multiple shaped inclusions known as mica and hematite, which create a glittering effect on its surface

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Constellation Quartz 28mm

For those looking for slightly smaller timepieces to grace their wrists, the Constellation 28mm quartz models are a perfect choice. These slender timekeepers are crafted entirely in stainless steel—the case along with the signature mono-rang bracelet—and are available with dials in a choice of four pastel hues: Blush Rose, Patchouli Blossom, Celestial Blue and Green Matcha. These colours also make an appearance on the bezel where the engraved Roman numeral markings match the dial hues. The sun-brushed dials also feature skeletonised hands, indexes and applied elements in 18-karat white gold. Water-resistant to 30m, the watches are powered by Omega’s proprietary quartz movement that offers unwavering precision and promises a battery life of at least 48 months. All models have a Constellation Observatory medallion stamped on the solid steel caseback.

The Constellation 28mm quartz models are crafted entirely in stainless steel—the case along with the signature mono-rang bracelet, and are perfect for those who prefer dainty watches

They are available with dials in a choice of four pastel hues: Blush Rose, Patchouli Blossom, Celestial Blue and Green Matcha

These colours also make an appearance on the bezel where the engraved Roman numeral markings match the dial hues

The sun-brushed dials also feature skeletonised hands, indexes and applied elements in 18-karat white gold

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Speedmaster: The Icon Gets A Slimmer Profile And Appeals To A New Generation

Speedmaster ’57 Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 40.5mm

While everyone is familiar with the Speedmaster and its role in the legendary moon landing; not many know that before it earned cult status among horophiles, the original model from 1957 was actually designed for motor racing. Along with its distinctive ‘broad arrow’ hands and chronograph display, it was the first watch to feature a tachymeter scale on the bezel. And this year, it is back in a slimmer profile for a new generation of ‘Speedy’ fans. First introduced in 2013, the Speedmaster ’57 is now available with a master chronometer upgrade. The new line consists of eight stainless steel models—all powered by Omega’s co-axial calibre 9906. The use of a manual-winding movement allows for a thinner case and finer bezel, giving the new watches a streamlined look. There’s a ‘sandwich’ black dial edition with recessed hour markers filled with vintage Super-LumiNova, and three versions with PVD dials in options of blue, green or burgundy. There is a date window at six o’clock, a small seconds sub-dial at nine o’clock, and 12-hour and 60-minute chronograph recorders on the sub-dial at three o’clock. The brushed bezel includes a blackened tachymeter scale. The entire collection is presented on either stainless steel bracelets or on matching, coloured leather straps. With a case thickness measuring 12.99mm, the new Speedmaster ’57 is considerably slimmer when compared with the Speedmaster Moonwatch 3861, which has a case thickness of 13.58mm. On turning over the watch, one can admire the manual-winding movement with a rhodium-plated bridge and Geneva waves decoration through the transparent caseback. Beating at a frequency of 28,800vph, it supplies a power reserve of 60 hours, when fully wound.

Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 42mm

When it comes to case materials, fans of the Moonwatch are already spoilt for choice, with current collection models in options of steel, Sedna gold and Canopus gold. And this year, Omega have taken the lunar inspiration to the next level with two new models crafted in Moonshine gold. Developed by the brand in 2019, Moonshine gold is their exclusive 18-karat yellow gold alloy, inspired by the moon’s subtle radiance. Composed of gold, silver, copper and palladium, Moonshine gold offers a distinctive, paler hue than traditional 18-karat yellow gold, and has a high resistance against fading of colour and losing lustre over time. The first model comes with a Moonshine gold dial with black sub-dials and indexes, topped by a black ceramic bezel. The second version features a lush, dark green dial with a matching ceramic bezel. The models are presented on either a bracelet crafted entirely in Moonshine gold or a black rubber strap to complement the black sub-dials. The green dial can also be paired with a matching green leather strap. The Moonshine gold models measure 42mm in diameter and feature the signature ‘step’ dial with Moonwatch-style hands. The bezel features a tachymeter scale with the famous ‘dot-over-90’ marking. The caseback comes in polished Moonshine gold, and also offers a glimpse of the manually-wound, co-axial master chronometer calibre 3861 with a special luxury finish, and a 50-hour power reserve.

This year, Omega have introduced two new models of the Speedmaster Moonwatch, crafted in Moonshine gold—an alloy developed by the brand in 2019

The first model comes with a Moonshine gold dial with black sub-dials and indexes, topped by a black ceramic bezel

The second version features a lush, dark green dial with a matching ceramic bezel

The Moonshine gold models measure 42mm in diameter and feature the signature ‘step’ dial with Moonwatch-style hands

The caseback offers a glimpse of the manually-wound, co-axial master chronometer calibre 3861 with a special luxury finish, and a 50-hour power reserve

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