Each year, the Baselworld Fair in Basel, Switzerland achieves significant attention from both the media and watch enthusiasts alike – and for good reason. After all, it is the trade show that many of the leading names in the industry use to launch their latest timepieces and generate a buzz ahead of public release.
Omega is widely recognized as one of the global leaders in luxury watch design, with a rich heritage dating back to 1848. Each year, their new releases are hotly anticipated and this year was no different. In this article, we take a closer look at five new models introduced by the brand for 2018.
1. Omega Seamaster Diver 300M 25th Anniversary
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the release of the iconic Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, which first became available back in 1993. To mark this anniversary, Omega used Baselworld to unveil its updated collection, which retains the basics of the original design, with a few significant modifications.
Each Seamaster Diver 300M model measures 42mm in diameter, while the bezel is now made from ceramic, with either a Ceragold or white enamel diving scale marked on it. The key to this upgrade is that the scale markers and numbers are now more resistant to the type of fading that could previously occur over many years, with regular use.
Internally, the timepieces have also been fitted with the Master Chronometer Caliber 8800, which provides them with greater timekeeping accuracy and offers superior magnetic resistance. Finally, one of the key design changes is the new placement of the date display window, at the 6 o’clock position, providing greater symmetry.
2. Omega Speedmaster Apollo 8 ‘Dark Side of the Moon’
Another addition to the Omega catalogue comes in the form of the Speedmaster Apollo 8, which celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 8 mission. The watch has been nicknamed the ‘Dark Side of the Moon’, in reference to the fact that the crew of Apollo 8 became the first humans to see the side of the moon that is not visible from Earth.
The watch itself is constructed from black ceramic, while it is fitted with a black leather strap. The dial is skeletonized and the movement has been carefully laser-ablated, giving it the appearance of the lunar surface. This movement is a slightly modified version of the Caliber 1861, which is known as the Caliber 1869.
While the watch is primarily black with white markers, the finishing touches are provided by yellow chronograph hands and accents. The case back also features the words of astronaut Jim Lovell: “We’ll see you on the other side.”
3. Omega Seamaster 1948 Limited Editions
Aside from being the 25th anniversary of the Seamaster Diver 300M, this year also marks the 70th anniversary of the entire Seamaster line of watches and to celebrate, Omega are also releasing a range of limited edition Seamaster 1948 models, which pay tribute to the original design.
The Seamaster collection was originally released in peace time, providing a use for some of the technology that Omega had supplied military personnel with during the Second World War. In order to provide the new models with a vintage quality, they are presented on a brown or blue leather strap and feature a minimalist design.
The case is constructed from stainless steel and measures 38mm in diameter, while the dial is a matching silver color. However, these classic features are blended with modern anti-magnetic and Chronometer technology.
4. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra
Those hoping for something a little more modern and extravagant in appearance may be more excited by the release of a new Seamaster Aqua Terra model, which benefits from the addition of jewels.
The watch has a 38mm case, constructed from Sedna gold, while the bezel is diamond paved. In addition, 12 marquise-cut red rubies serve as the dial markers and the dial is further decorated with the presence of almost 200 individual diamonds, arranged in an attractive pattern to provide a truly eye-catching quality.
A red leather strap, complete with a glossy finish, helps to enhance the appearance of the model, giving it a distinctive, contemporary feel. However, the internal workings of the watch have not been neglected either, and the Aqua Terra is fitted with the Master Chronometer Caliber 8807, offering supreme precision.
5. Omega De Ville Trésor Collection
Finally, Omega also used Baselworld to boost its range of offerings for women with the introduction of a new De Ville Trésor ladies collection. The collection itself is one of the dressier offerings from the brand, but this year’s new additions also have a modern touch, allowing classic and contemporary ideas to combine.
The collection includes 36mm and 39mm models, with both options having collection-defining thin cases. Meanwhile, an added touch of elegance is provided with the addition of diamonds paved around the edges of the case.
Each timepiece in the collection has a mirrored case back, while a range of case materials are available, including stainless steel and 18k Sedna gold. A variety of different dial colors and designs are also on offer, while the watch is powered by an in-house Quartz movement – the caliber 4061.
Purchasing Time Frame and Pre-orders
Omega’s new releases have impressed many watch enthusiasts and models like the Seamaster Diver 300M are likely to attract a lot of attention. Although the new 2018 Omega timepieces have not yet been released to the general public, you can pre-order the models through the Jaztime online store.
