Regatta timers are extremely niche, but that niche gives rise to interesting, purposeful watches. Omega’s latest regatta-themed effort, the Seamaster Diver 300M America’s Cup Chronograph (RM42,300), is an homage to the 36th America’s Cup, which took place in March 2021. The America’s Cup race is the oldest – and many would say the most prestigious – yachting competition, a battle of sailing, engineering, and teamwork.
This special edition chronograph includes some unique functions in the familiar – if chunkier, at 44mm across – stainless steel case. The key development is the 3 o’clock subdial. Here, a broad indicator hand with a yacht-like silhouette keeps track of the chronograph minutes. The minute markers are inscribed on a red anodized aluminium ring, and there is an additional 10-minute marking for sailors to keep track of the pre-start period as they sail to the line. The chronograph hour is now as expressed as a disc, as seen through a cut-out on the lower part of the sub-dial.
Other practicalities include the use of soft-touch rubber pushers for better grip in briny conditions, a new chronograph locking system that ensures the ongoing timing remains undisturbed. Its 300 metres of water resistance is, of course, a given. The steel bracelet has a quick-change system that allows it to be effortlessly swapped to a rubber strap while the self-winding movement within offers 60 hours of power in reserve.
Most visibly, the counterweight for the red, central chronograph seconds hand is fashioned in the shape of the trophy itself. This is no mean feat, given its incredibly ornate profile. It is, after all, a sterling silver ewer crafted over 170 years ago by Garrard & Co, making it one of the oldest sporting trophies in existence.
