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Chrono24 Magazine: News and Perspectives From the Watch Industry
TAG Heuer vs Omega – The Chrono24 Brand Comparison
TAG Heuer watches are synonymous with motorsports, while Omega timepieces are at home in outer space and underwater. Two brands, two unique philosophies. In the Chrono24 brand comparison, we’re putting the two manufacturers head-to-head.
Omega: Innovation in the Deep Sea and Outer Space
Omega stands for tradition, precision, and progress. Highlights like the co-axial escapement and Master Chronometer certification strengthen the brand’s outstanding reputation. With the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, Omega created a legendary chronograph.
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Tradition and Elegance Since 1848
Omega has been around since the middle of the 19th century. Throughout its long history, the brand has built a reputation for producing reliable, precise, and functional watches. Based in Biel, Switzerland, the manufacturer is also regarded as a driver of innovation in the industry when it comes to caliber technology and materials research. For example, Omega has been using the co-axial escapement developed by British watchmaker George Daniels for more than 25 years. This has an additional escapement wheel, which results in a more efficient flow of energy than with a conventional Swiss lever escapement. The co-axial escapement also requires less maintenance.
Omega’s range includes some of the world’s most famous wristwatches. One example is the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, which accompanied the first astronauts to the Moon in the summer of 1969. Professional and recreational divers, on the other hand, have been using models from the extensive Seamaster collection for around 60 years. Watches from this series have made various screen appearances as the official watch of British secret agent James Bond. Omega is also deeply involved in top-class sport. For decades, the watchmaker has been the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games and other major sporting events.
In addition to technically-oriented tool watches, Omega also produces classic, elegant timepieces such as the De Ville, Constellation, and Globemaster. Precious metals such as rose or yellow gold are used in these collections, emphasizing their luxury character.
Prices at a Glance: Omega Watches
Model, reference | Price (approx.) | Price development * |
---|---|---|
De Ville Tresor Co-Axial, 435.53.40.21.11.001 | 24,319.37 USD | +4% |
Constellation Globemaster, 130.30.39.21.03.001 | 7,906.85 USD | -4% |
Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, 310.30.42.50.01.001 | 6,979.51 USD | -1% |
Seamaster 300, 233.30.41.21.01.001 | 5,480.16 USD | -9% |
Planet Ocean 37, 232.92.38.20.03.001 | 4,016.92 USD | -5% |
Aqua Terra, 231.13.39.21.02.003 | 4,101.96 USD | +9% |
*Annual average |
What do Omega watches cost?
Prices for Omega watches are wide-ranging. They heavily depend on the model, age of the watch, its condition, and the material used. Standard versions of classics such as the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, Seamaster 300, or Diver 300 cost between around 6,990 USD and 10,485 USD unworn. However, you can buy some versions of the Aqua Terra, De Ville, or Constellation in mint condition from around 2,330 USD. Prices for particularly rare watches, such as special editions or models with complications, can quickly climb to mid-six-figure sums.
Are Omega watches a good investment?
Omega watches are generally considered to be relatively stable in value. A long-term comparison shows that most of the timepieces produced by the Biel-based manufacturer have maintained or even moderately increased in value. This applies primarily to classics such as the Speedmaster Moonwatch or Seamaster 300. Rare special editions like the Speedy Tuesday models or watches with particularly elaborate movements have also proven to be good investments in the past.
Omega Speedmaster: The Cult Chronograph
The Speedmaster collection is an important pillar in Omega’s catalog. The Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is probably the most important model in the series. First presented in 1957, the chronograph was originally designed for racing, but has been part of NASA astronauts’ equipment since the mid-1960s. Thanks to the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, the Speedmaster went down in history as the first watch on the Moon. Since then, Omega has issued the timepiece in numerous variants with different materials and calibers.
Other Speedmaster Models
In addition to the Moonwatch variants, the collection also includes a whole range of other interesting models. Prominent examples include retro watches like the Speedmaster ’57, the Speedmaster Caliber 321, or the Speedmaster First Omega in Space. Fans of bicompax chronographs will enjoy models such as the Speedmaster Chronoscope or the current variants of the Speedmaster Racing. If you prefer a Speedmaster with a slightly smaller case, it is best to opt for the Speedmaster Reduced or the Speedmaster 38. For something more modern, look to quartz-powered models like the Skywalker X-33 and Spacemaster Z-33. Last but not least, the Omega x Swatch Speedmaster MoonSwatch is interesting for all those who are looking for the original Speedmaster design at the lowest possible price.
Omega Speedmaster Models at a Glance
- Size: 38 to 45 mm
- Material: Stainless steel, gold, platinum, or ceramic
- Water resistance: 50 m (5 bar, 164 ft)
- Special feature: first wristwatch on the Moon
- Price range (approx.): 3,000 to 600,000 USD
Seamaster: Omega’s Diving Watch
Alongside the Speedmaster, the Seamaster collection is another important cornerstone in Omega’s portfolio. Here, too, the Swiss manufacturer offers a wide range of models, some of which are quite unique, and all of which are characterized by increased water resistance.
Seamaster 300: A Classic
One of the best-known models in the range is the Seamaster 300, which is water-resistant to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft) and has been an integral part of the Omega range since 1957. It is characterized by a unidirectional rotating diving bezel, luminescent indices, and the typical “Broad Arrow” hands.
The Seamaster 300 is available in various materials. You can choose between stainless steel, gold, platinum, or bronze. Two-tone timepieces are also available.
Omega Seamaster 300 Highlights
- Classic diving watch from Omega
- Water-resistant to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft)
- Available in stainless steel, gold, platinum, or bronze
- Price range (approx.): 4,500 to 70,000 USD
Seamaster Diver 300M: Diving Watches With Helium Valve
The Seamaster Diver 300M is the modern sibling of the Seamaster 300. It is also water-resistant to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft), but has a helium escape valve that is operated via a crown at 10 o’clock. The bezel with a curved edge and dial with a wave pattern are further characteristic features of the Diver 300M.
Within the Seamaster Diver 300M collection, Omega offers three-hand watches and chronographs in sizes for men and women. The choice of materials ranges from stainless steel to titanium and ceramic. You can find also find two-tone watches in the Diver 300M collection.
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Highlights
- Modern design
- Water-resistant to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft)
- Manual helium escape valve at 10 o’clock
- Dial with wave pattern
- Numerous special editions available for James Bond and the Olympic Games
- Price range (approx.): 2,000 to 170,000 USD
Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M: Professional Diving Watch
The Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M is the professional diving watch in Omega’s catalog. It is water-resistant to a depth of 600 m (60 bar, 1,967 ft), has a helium escape valve, and combines design elements of the Seamaster 300 and the Diver 300M.
Omega offers the Planet Ocean 600M collection in many sizes as well as color and material combinations. The diameters range from 37.5 to 45.5 mm. Complications include either a GMT or chronograph function.
Omega added the Planet Ocean Ultra Deep to the collection in 2022. This model can withstand depths to 6,000 m (600 bar, 19,685 ft).
Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Highlights
- Water-resistant to 600 m (60 bar, 984 ft)
- Top models are water-resistant to 6,000 m (600 bar, 19,685 ft)
- Manual helium escape valve at 10 o’clock
- Men’s and women’s models
- Price range (approx.): 5,000 to 40,000 USD
Aqua Terra, PloProf, and Bullhead
In the Seamaster Aqua Terra series, Omega combines the straightforwardness of a tool watch with the elegance of a dress watch. Gold and diamond embellishments can be found as well as mother-of-pearl dials and crocodile leather bracelets. Case sizes range from 34 to 43 mm. In addition to simple three-hand watches, the collection also includes models with a second time zone or world time function. You can also opt for the 55 g Aqua Terra 150M Ultra Light, which is made almost entirely of titanium.
The PloProf 1200M model series is aimed at professionals who want to dive to great depths. Watches in this collection can withstand depths of 1,200 m (120 bar, 3,937 ft) and have professional features such as a helium escape valve or safety pushers for the diving bezel. However, the PloProf is less suitable for narrow wrists, as the unconventionally shaped, angular case measures 55 x 48 mm.
The Bullhead offers another interesting model that is reminiscent of the head of a bull due to the top-mounted pushers. This model is particularly popular with collectors.
Constellation: Sporty Elegance
The Omega Constellation collection includes a range of sporty and elegant dress watches. The series is divided into two model ranges: The first is the Constellation Globemaster, which is an interesting alternative to the Rolex Datejust with its fluted bezel, baton hands, and date display. The other branch is home to Constellation models that feature an integrated bracelet and fixed bezel with characteristic protrusions.
Omega offers the Constellation in sizes from 25 to 41 mm, which makes it interesting as both a men’s and women’s watch. You have the choice between stainless steel or gold as the case material – each with or without gemstones – as well as a quartz or an automatic caliber.
Omega Constellation Highlights
- Sporty, elegant dress watch
- Men’s and women’s models
- Cases in stainless steel or gold
- Available with diamond settings
- Price range (approx.): 1,250 to 75,000 USD
De Ville: Stylish and Elegant
The De Ville collection has its roots in the 1960s, and has even more classic lines than the Constellation. Here you will find elements such as Roman numerals, movements with tourbillons, and cases made of white, rose, or yellow gold, which combine to create the traditional De Ville style. Omega also uses diamonds to decorate the bezel of some of the ladies’ models in this series. Depending on the model, the watches are powered by quartz movements or in-house Co-Axial calibers.
Omega De Ville at a Glance
- Dress watch collection for men and women
- Available in stainless steel, gold, and two-tone versions
- Co-Axial or quartz caliber
- Top models with a tourbillon and diamonds
- Price range (approx.): 1,700 to 230,000 USD
Buying Omega Watches on Chrono24
Chrono24 is a global marketplace for luxury watches, offering over 50,000 Omega watches in all price categories. Thanks to the Escrow Service, promise of authenticity, and insured international shipping, buying is safe and easy. Many watches bear the Certified Seal, which confirms their authenticity by experienced watchmakers. On the off chance that problems should arise, the quality and security team will support you in finding a quick and seamless solution.
FAQ
Why is the Omega Speedmaster such an icon?
The Omega Speedmaster achieved its iconic status after it was chosen by NASA as the their official watch in the 1960s. It went down in history as the first wristwatch on the Moon when it was worn by Buzz Aldrin on July 20, 1969.
Which Omega watch is best suited for diving?
Omega offers a range of professional diving watches in the Seamaster collection. The Planet Ocean 600M and the Diver 300M are suitable for saturation diving thanks to a helium escape valve. The Seamaster 300M is also ideally equipped for underwater use with a water resistance of 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft).
What is the difference between the Seamaster and Speedmaster?
Watches in the Seamaster series are generally diving watches with a unidirectional rotating diving bezel and an increased water resistance of 300 m (30 bar) to 600 m (60 bar). In contrast, Speedmasters are chronographs that were originally developed for racing and are usually only water-resistant to 50 m (5 bar).