The world timer is not the first complication that comes to mind when considering Omega’s Seamaster Planet Ocean, which has the reputation of a deep-sea action hero—ultra tough, overbuilt, and an Ultra Deep variant rated to ocean depths of an impressive 6,000m; not to mention the record-setting depth of 10,935m set by the Seamaster Planet Ocean Ultra Deep Professional during an abyssal expedition in 2019.
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Instead, the world timer complication is typically associated with air travel but, realistically, it is a function far more likely to be useful than excessive depth ratings. And they tend to look great, as well. Indeed, the new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer (RM70,850) is quite the eye-catcher. It is available in two colourways with black ceramic cases—a monochrome grey-on-grey, and one with a turquoise pop on the chapter ring and central world map. Said map is full of topographic detail visible under closer examination, created by laser-ablation and varnish on a titanium surface. As is typical for world timers, it has a 24-hour disc with day/night markings and a cities ring. Central European Time is indicated by Bienne, the city in Switzerland that Omega calls home.
View of the monochrome version of the watch
It may be outside the Planet Ocean’s usual purview, but the new Worldtimer still retains the collection’s design codes. It is considerably sized—some 45.5mm in diameter and 17.4mm thick—but the downward sweep of the lugs makes it more wearable than those numbers would suggest. The chunky bezel has a textured finish, with a laser-ablated scale standing out in relief. The bezel means it can still be used as a dive watch—and the collection standard of 600m water resistance helps in this regard as well. Outfitted with a black rubber strap, it holds the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8938, which is self-winding with a 60-hour power reserve, has a silicon balance spring, and is highly magnetic resistant.
Although the trend is moving to smaller watches, there are still those who like them big and sporty. Not only does it pack a useful complication, but the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer has a sharp and suave contemporary aesthetic as well.
Photos provided by Omega
Lead image: Omega’s Seamaster Planet Ocean collection, showcasing a travel-inspired design in bold ceramic form.
