As another week draws to a close, it's time for the Sunday morning start. This week is a battle between two titanium dive watches from two of the most popular watch brands. Titanium watches have been around for decades but have become more popular recently. Many brands have teamed up to launch titanium alternatives to steel watches, and even titanium-only models. Metal lends itself well to bulky sports watches, with some weight favoring larger dimensions. We decided to take a titanium diver from Rolex and Omega and put them together.
The recent titanium Rolex Yacht-Master 42 released earlier this year on Watches and Wonders was a no-brainer. We compare it to the Omega Seamaster Professional 300M released for Daniel Craig's recent silver screen appearances as Bond inThere's no time to die. Two titanium divers from two of the world's most popular watch brands face each other today. In the corner of the Rolex is Nacho with the new titanium Yacht-Master 42 ref. 226627. And in the corner of Omega stands Daan with a titanium Seamaster Diver 300M ref. 210.90.42.20.01.001. Which of these titan titans will be victorious today? It's your choice! But first, let's look at last week's winner.
Last week's winner: Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro-Rotor
Last week, Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro-Rotor defeated H. Moser & Cie. Streamlined middle seconds hand. In the end, Parmigiani won with a 14 percent margin. Many of you said it was difficult and I have to agree. Both watches do what they do exceptionally well and offer a luxury sports watch with an integrated bracelet and an internal haute horlogerie movement. The futuristic yet oddly organic lines of the Moser shield and smoked salmon were no match for the more traditional profile and guilloche Parmigiani shield. But reading your comments, the difference in thickness was the deciding factor. It looks like Moser will have to sharpen his filleting knife to cut a thinner piece of lox and try again in an upcoming episode. For now, you have your winner - the lovely Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro-Rotor.
Nacho: Rolex Yacht-Master 42 tytan ref. 226627
I am at a loss in today's match. I don't hate Seamaster and I don't have too many bad things to say about it either. I really like the watch. However, I prefer the titanium Yacht-Master 42. In conclusion, I will only address some of the Seamaster's critical weaknesses, which it has one or two, and keep attacks based on personal preference to a minimum. There is only one I can point to. But before we get to that, let's take a look at why I love the Rolex Yacht-Master so much (words I never thought I'd write).
Rolexsince the end of the era of five-figure benchmarks, there hasn't been much that I find truly appealing. The shiny and luxurious nature of the new Rolex is not enough for me. Of course, that's not an opinion shared by the majority, but it saves me both the disappointment of waiting lists and the money hole that is the secondary market. I was talking about the only Rolex I'd ever want to own is this oneExplorer II ref. 16570. I've heard it called the "smallest Rolex of all Rolex", but I don't quite agree with that. On the contrary, it is different from other Rolexes today, even those that share the same name.
The same can be said about the Yacht-Master 42 made of titanium. It's a strange departure from the norm. This even goes against the luxury roots of the Yacht-Master name, known as a luxury alternative to the classic (and more pedestrian) Submariner. This departure from the brand's established standard is an important part of what I find appealing about the titanium Yacht-Master 42. No precious metals are used. Nothing lights up. Instead, brushed surfaces, along with a darker shade of titanium and a matte black bezel and dial, bring it closer to the renowned and extremely capable Tudor Pelagos than any other watch in the current Rolex catalogue.
An unexpected but welcome change.
I saw the titanium Rolex Yacht-Master 42 for the first time in the window of the Rolex stand at Watches and Wonders. I barely had time to absorb it in all the hustle and bustle, but I remember feeling weird. Later that day, in a conference room in the bowels of the Rolex stand, I realized why. He was the black sheep of the herd. Among the flock of golden, colorful and shiny sheep, this one was an exception and I couldn't take my eyes off her. After putting it on my wrist, I did not notice any other watch. This watch felt like a sharp left turn on the steady straight line Rolex is used to. In this sense, it was as exciting as it was charming with its sharp lines, matte surfaces, lightweight titanium and the unmistakable charisma of a Rolex diver.
I couldn't believe it. It seemed impossible in the current state of the Rolex universe. Something I didn't know I wanted or thought would happen, but it was very real and absolutely brilliant. I will address the Achilles heel before proceeding. Sure, the Yacht-Master looks like a diver's watch. It still has the diver's watch bezel. But it is only waterproof to 100 meters. It must be said that this is a number that Rolex puts on paper. The watch still has a screwed crown and we know that these tests are always carried out with a margin of (at least) 30% above the declared water resistance. This coupled with Rolex's quality standards should mean it will be more than enough for most people to use the watch.
quality from end to end
I promised to give Omega some honest reviews and I'll get back to it soon. But first, I want to discuss my last argument for Rolex. And that's the incredibly high level of quality you'd expect from a modern Rolex watch. Love or hate the brand (and its notorious waiting list practices), it's hard to deny that it produces watches to the highest quality standards. When you hold it in your hand, you feel it. From the watch head to the strap, everything is made as solidly and skillfully as possible. There is something inexplicable about Rolex watches that exude quality, and the titanium Yacht-Master 42 is no exception. On the other hand, I remember that Seamaster's mesh bracelet had a lot of problems. I've also heard that the weird overlapping strap is as uncomfortable as it is hard to get a perfect fit.
For a watch that currently costs close to €11,000, you'd expect better. Some may have a problem with the crown of the helium exhaust valve or even a "fauxtin" flame. For me, one is a basic 300M classic and the other is simply a design choice, a color chosen to take the aesthetic to the next level. However, I will criticize the Omega AR coating used. Since I only wore this watch for a short time, it was very difficult to tell the time by the glare when I was near the window. My final conclusion is that at first glance it almost looks like a piece of Bond merch.Omegalook at the second. For me, the direct association with a major movie franchise is very unsettling. Both in terms of quality and appearance, the Yacht-Master is the clear winner here.
Other: Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Tytan 210.90.42.20.01.001
I agree, Nacho, that the Seamaster Milanese bracelet is not comparable to the Rolex Oyster bracelet. It is too wide (especially when fastened), it is not tapered and I don't like the large spaces it leaves between the ears. I also think that paying a €1,300 premium for it over the version with the excellent Omega Bond NATO strap is a bit too much. But I suggest you put the Seamaster on that nice NATO bracelet and forget about the bracelet. This is how Bond would have used it anyway. I know you don't mind, but still.
However, to suggest that the watch itself cannot compete with the level of quality of the Yacht-Master is a bit far-fetched in my opinion. Okay, Seamaster's frame could be made of aluminum instead of ceramic. But I really think the finish level of both watches is very similar. And let's not forget the most advanced (in my eyes) Omega caliber 8806, Co-Axial and Master Chronometer certified. It is likely to have longer service intervals and is more accurate than the Yacht-Master automatic.
This is not a special agent watch; it's just a special watch
In terms of appearance, like the Nacho, I find both watches very nice. The Rolex designers did a great job creating the new Yacht-Master 42. However, since I don't think a titanium watch is likely to be your first watch in the collection, the design could be a bit bolder. Again, the titanium Yacht-Master looks great, but the design is a little safe, right? Without that embossed black ceramic bezel, you might even think it's a titanium version of the brand's famous Submariner. And that's why I appreciate Seamaster's bolder design choices.
Hell, this might be my favorite Seamaster 300M from Omega. Like Nacho, I don't see that creamy Omega orange used for fire and chamfering like fauxtine. To me, it looks more like a pretty color that pairs perfectly with the dark brown aluminum bezel and dial. Both also work very well with the darker grays of the titanium bezel and case. But I totally disagree with what Nacho said he was a Bond merch first.
Apart from the large arrow on the dial at 6 o'clock, there is nothing else to indicate that this is a special edition watch. And that's what I appreciate about him. Some earlier versions of Bond Seamasters had "007" written on them. This one only features Bond's codename on the back of the case, among many other numbers. I love it because you don't necessarily have to like James Bond to like this version of Seamaster, unlike many previous versions.
Better portability
What I really like about this Seamaster is that, in addition to being made of titanium, it is also 0.6mm thinner than the regular stainless steel version. I think the only difference is that the sapphire crystal is a bit flatter than usual. But since I find the 42mm case to feel a little big on my wrist most of the time, every little thing helps improve usability. Besides being lighter, I feel it is the most portable Seamaster 300M in the current lineup.
Also, while the overall dimensions of the two watches are very similar, I still find the Seamaster to wear better on the wrist. This may be due to the Omega's twisted lugs, but the Rolex feels a bit too long from end to end, at least for my wrist.
Now it's up to you!
Well, you got it, folks. These luminous divers from the two giants of the watch industry went head to head. But which one will prevail is your choice. Is this the new Rolex Yacht-Master 42 in titanium? Or maybe you prefer Bond's choice, the titanium Omega Seamaster Diver 300MThere's no time to die? Vote for your favorite below and watch next week to see which of these two watches is the winner!
Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Titanium kontra Omega Seamaster 300M Bond Titanium
FAQs
Is Seamaster 300 better than the Submariner? ›
In terms of technology, the Seamaster 300M offers more compared to the Rolex Submariner. While both watches offer 300 meters (about 984 ft.) of water resistance, there is quite a difference in testing.
Why Seamaster is better than Submariner? ›Seamasters are also more antimagnetic than Submariners and have a helium escape valve, a true-blue dive quality that allows you to manually discharge helium build-up during resurfacing. Meanwhile, the Planet Ocean boasts 600 meters of water resistance.
Does Rolex Yacht Master hold value? ›Every watch from the Rolex Yacht-Master collection is equipped with a practical 60-minute rotating timing bezel and offers an impressive water resistance up to a depth of 100 m. It is no doubt a masterpiece that would last decades and still hold values in the market even at that time.
How durable is the Omega Seamaster 300m? ›As stated in the name, the Seamaster 300m has a water resistance rating up to 300m which is deeper than 99.999% of us will ever go under water. What this does mean is that for that percentage of us, the Omega Seamaster 300m will never fail us. The case design and production is also very sturdy.
Is Omega as prestigious as Rolex? ›Rolex VS Omega: Conclusion
At the end of the day, whether you choose Rolex or Omega is up to you. Both brands have their benefits and downsides but are both two prestigious, reputable, and respected Swiss watchmakers. Overall, Omega is slightly cheaper than Rolex, and the availability of them is better.
Brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Omega are considered to be luxury watch brands. Because of this, their watches tend to hold value better than other brands. The thing is that people are more willing to pay a high price for a luxury watch because they know that it is a quality product.
What holds value better -- Rolex or Omega? ›Resale Value
This is a category where Rolex has the upper hand. While Omega watches hold a relatively large amount of value, they don't come close in this case. In fact, many Rolex pieces gain value right after you purchase them.
So, when it comes to accuracy, which is better Omega or Rolex? In terms of overall accuracy, Omega wins, since they not only make mechanical watches but also quite a few quartz watches. Quartz watches, as we all know, are more accurate than their mechanical counterparts.
Is an Omega Seamaster as good as a Rolex Submariner? ›While both brands produce movements that are dependable and built to be rock-solid, the Omega Seamaster is said to be more legible underwater with more luminous fill but has a slightly lower power reserve if compared to the Submariner.
Is Yacht-Master better than Submariner? ›Overall. The YachtMaster is a more sporty aesthetic and is sleek and showy. It's slimmer lines with polished lugs make it a great dress option. While the Submariner is a low key choice and its brushed surfaces aren't overly loud, but will still be noticed.
Is Yacht-Master hard to get? ›
To achieve the qualification you need to pass a practical on the water exam that can last for up to 12 hours. That is correct – a 12 hour exam! The exam can be tough and stressful. To be successful a Yachtmaster Offshore candidate you must be able to not only cope with plain sailing but also with demanding situations.
What is the best Rolex to buy for investment? ›Rolex GMT Master and Rolex GMT Master II are the best Rolex watches for investment. They are practical and hardwearing watches with the prestigious Rolex branding. You can get a GMT Master at a few thousand pounds, but rarer models can go for tens or hundreds of thousands.
How much should I pay for Omega Seamaster 300? ›Prices for an Omega Seamaster Diver 300M range from about 1,400 USD for a pre-owned watch with a quartz movement to more than 50,000 USD for special or especially rare editions. Standard edition models in stainless steel are even more affordable. Take the ref. 210.30.
Will the Omega Seamaster 300M go up in value? ›The general rule for Omega watches is that they depreciate in value when bought for full retail price. There are some exceptions to this with certain limited editions, however. Generally speaking, an Omega watch loses between 20-40% in value in the first year.
Is The Omega Seamaster 300 worth it? ›A breezy-looking watch that packs plenty of power. Pulling from the Omega archives, the Seamaster 300 offers loads of vintage appeal while keeping up with any modern diver. The bracelet, bezel, and mid-century design all evoke the scuba-diving boom of the 1950s, even though it is a modern release from 2021.
What is more prestigious than Rolex? ›Patek Philippe has one of the highest resell values among its competitors with the exception of Rolex. So there is much truth to their campaign slogan, it's an accurate description of their products. Patek Philippe arguably owns the top-tier of high-horology.
What watches are better than Rolex? ›- Omega. Shop Omega Watches. Omega is a brand that gets compared to Rolex most frequently – and for good reason. ...
- Panerai. Shop Panerai Watches. ...
- Oris. Shop Oris Watches. ...
- Breitling. Shop Breitling Watches. ...
- Audemars Piguet. Shop Audemars Piguet Watches. ...
- Longines. Shop Longines Watches. ...
- Patek Philippe. Shop Patek Philippe Watches.
The Increasing Value of an Omega Watch
As many expensive investments go, the chain of supply and demand, as well as several other factors, can fluctuate and affect an item's increase or deprecation in value. The same is true for Omega watches.
You throw yourself into all your passions and love broadening your horizons with real hands-on learning. As far as your style goes, Omega wearers are not so bogged down with fashion—they're too much on the go—but that doesn't mean you'll throw on dirty t-shirt and jeans with holes and call it a day.
Which is more expensive Patek or Rolex? ›As a result of these differences, Patek Philippe watches are, in general, more expensive than Rolex models.
Which Rolex has the best value retention? ›
Rolex Submariner
The Submariner is even used by military personnel and professional divers. Due to its popularity and collectibility, this watch has a strong resale value and can increase significantly in value over time, making it a smart investment for those who want to invest in a luxury timepiece.
Other important factors to consider when researching alternatives to Omega include reliability and ease of use. We have compiled a list of solutions that reviewers voted as the best overall alternatives and competitors to Omega, including Oracle Primavera, Oracle Aconex, Sciforma, and ProjectWise.
Is Omega considered a luxury watch? ›Omega isn't the oldest Luxury watch brand that survives today, but with the first Omega watches appearing in 1894, from a workshop that had been making watches since 1948, Omega's history has a lead on Rolex of at least 50 years — and a storied history it is!
What is the most in demand Omega? ›The most popular Omega models are the Speedmaster and Seamaster. With legacies dating back to 1948, both names are crucial to the brand's history. But that doesn't mean every version of these famous Omega watches will increase in value. It's often the case that limited and special editions tend to be in high demand.
What type of watch does James Bond wear? ›Since 1995, James Bond has worn OMEGA Seamasters in every film. Over the years, we have also created some very special limited edition timepieces whose special features honour 007 and his legacy of more than half a century of genre-defining movies.
Is Omega a respected watch? ›Prestigious and well respected, they provide technically advanced, quality timepieces to last through the generations. As one of the oldest Swiss watch brands, Omega has transformed horology throughout the years. Both new and used, Omega watches are incredibly popular among collectors and enthusiasts.
Will Omega Seamaster last a lifetime? ›OMEGA watches are designed to last a lifetime if they receive the best care. We recommend that you have the water-resistance checked every year and a full service performed every 5 to 8 years. You can also find on our website tips on how to preserve your watch.
Is an Omega Seamaster an investment? ›When investing in an Omega wristwatch, achieving an increase in value over time is the main goal, but also importantly, so is enjoyment for the wearer. Two of Omega's most sought after models are the Seamaster and the Speedmaster, which historically prove to be the safest investments.
Which is more expensive Speedmaster or Seamaster? ›These watches go for similar amounts, but it seems that the Seamaster is just a bit more expensive. This is especially true of Planet Oceans, which are a bit more robust than the standard options.
Why is Yacht-Master so expensive? ›Due to its large size, complicated movement, and frequent use of precious metals, the Yacht-Master II is one of the higher-priced Rolex watches you can purchase. In terms of pre-owned prices, a stainless steel reference of the Yacht-Master II starts around $15,000.
What is special about Rolex Yacht-Master? ›
As its name would suggest, the Rolex Yacht-Master was developed as a tool-watch for sailing, offering water-resistance up to 100 meters (330 feet) via a Triplock screw-down crown, a highly legible dial, and a bidirectional rotating timing bezel.
What is special about the Yacht-Master? ›The Yacht-Master is easily recognizable for its bidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel. This characteristic and functional bezel – which enables the wearer to read time intervals, for example, the sailing time between two buoys – plays a full part in creating the unique visual identity of the watch.
What is the alternative to the Rolex Yacht-Master? ›Rolex Yacht-Master Alternative: Invicta Pro Diver 9210
The watch in question is very similar to the Yacht-Master, almost identical, with a case size and dial design that match those of the Rolex. The timepiece is powered by a Japanese NH35A automatic movement, which is visible through the clear case back.
| Model | Duration* |
|---|---|
| Sky-Dweller | Over 3 years |
| Submariner | 1 – 2 years |
| Yacht-Master | 6 to 18 months |
| Yacht-Master II | 6 to 18 months |
The Rolex Yacht-Master II Was Never Very Popular
Part of this has to do with the watch's size and rather niche complication; 44mm is large and a regatta timer doesn't have quite as many everyday uses as something like a chronograph or GMT hand.
So, the Rolex Daytona waitlist 2023 is likely to be at least 5 years if you're able to buy a Rolex Daytona. We've seen Covid pass through, World Cups end and start, markets rise and fall almost simultaneously and all within the time it takes to get your hands on a Rolex Daytona. It rests within good reason.
What is the most popular Rolex op? ›1. Turquoise Blue aka “Tiffany” The Rolex Oyster Perpetual turquoise blue is the most sought-after watch in the collection.
What Rolex will be discontinued 2023? ›Discontinued Rolex Models in 2023 - Rolex Datejust 41 with a Meteorite Dial. Rolex announced the discontinuation of the Datejust model with a mother-of-pearl dial. Interestingly, ONLY in the 41mm line. This fact has left watch enthusiasts curious about the reasons behind this decision and its implications on the market ...
Is Seamaster 300 a dress watch? ›A classic watch with a rich history, the Seamaster 300 Co-Axial is one of James Bond's choices for a dress watch. It captivates any watch aficionados because it combines smooth lines and a rich tone with striking luminescence.
Is the Omega Seamaster 300M comfortable? ›It is hands down the most comfortable and high-quality OEM rubber strap I have ever worn. The watch continues its excellent wearability below the waves, being right there when you need it and blending away into your wrist when you don't. My only small complaint with the watch when diving lies with the bezel.
Can you swim with an Omega Seamaster 300? ›
As the Rolex Submariner's toughest competitor, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300 M (Ref. 210.30. 42.20. 03.001) is not only an outstanding diver's watch that is waterproof up to 300 metres, but a true statement as well.
Which Omega model holds value best? ›Omega Seamaster and Speed master are the most famous and in-demand Omega models. They will hold value even in the resale market as their demand is equally high. Look for variations like function variants, gold versions, dial variants, etc.
What is the power reserve of an Omega Seamaster 300? ›Some favorite everyday watch picks include the OMEGA Speedmaster, Tudor Black Bay, Rolex Submariner, OMEGA Seasmaster, the Tag Heuer Carrera, Breitling Colt, Rolex DateJust, and a Panerai Luminor. These are just a few of the many everyday luxury watches that will take you from the coffee to the corner office.
Is Omega Seamaster Diver 300 a good investment? ›When investing in an Omega wristwatch, achieving an increase in value over time is the main goal, but also importantly, so is enjoyment for the wearer. Two of Omega's most sought after models are the Seamaster and the Speedmaster, which historically prove to be the safest investments.
Does an Omega Seamaster 300M hold its value? ›Omega's most popular models are the Speedmaster and Seamaster. This results in the fact that these two models also hold their value best on the secondhand market as the demand for them is quite high.
What watch is better than a Rolex? ›RESALE VALUE: Patek Philippe's watches are known to either hold their value or even appreciate over time. Patek Philippe has one of the highest resell values among its competitors with the exception of Rolex. So there is much truth to their campaign slogan, it's an accurate description of their products.
Why do Omega watches not hold value? ›The Increasing Value of an Omega Watch
As many expensive investments go, the chain of supply and demand, as well as several other factors, can fluctuate and affect an item's increase or deprecation in value. The same is true for Omega watches.