Unusual a metal as it is, Tantalum’s cropped up on the occasional watch here and there. Omega though were ahead of the game when they tried it on for size back in 1993. It’s not exactly been a pervasive part of the collection since then, but now it’s returned once again in Omega’s latest three-hued take on the Seamaster 300m Chronograph.
Tantalum’s an odd metal. It has nearly the same kind of heft as rose gold, but with a blue-grey lustre that’s unusual to the point of unique. It’s almost completely corrosion resistant, incredibly hard-wearing and generally a pretty good metal, provided you’re not after lightness.
To counteract the weight, Omega has used Tantalum sparingly through the construction of the new 44mm numbered edition. Specifically, it’s been used on the faceted base of the bezel and the links of the bracelet, the elements most at risk of damage. The main body of the case though uses grade 2 titanium for its lightness, with Omega’s proprietary, corrosion-resistant Sedna™ gold on pushers, helium escape valve and the bezel insert, as well as bordering the bracelet links.
It’s an interesting case and one that really shows off the best sides of the three metals involved. That said, I’d like to see more excessive use of Tantalum if Omega want to make it a serious feature, although God only knows how much that would cost. Right now, it’s more a nod to the early 90s than a standalone watch. Still, overall, it looks damn handsome, particularly with the 300m’s signature wavy dial in laser-engraved blue ceramic with yet more touches of Sedna™ gold.
Inside is the in-house OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 9900, a serious work of watchmaking with a vertical clutch column wheel chronograph and 60-hour power reserve. It’s accurate and equipped with a patented co-axial escapement for long-term reliability.
The Omega Seamaster 300m Chronograph in titanium, Sedna™ gold and tantalum has a price tag of £16,540. It’s not cheap, but for a 3-way masterclass in metallurgy (backed with a more-than-solid movement) it feels about right.
Price & Specs:
Model: Omega Seamaster 300m Chronograph Tantalum
Ref: 210.60.44.51.03.001
Case/Dial: 44mm diameter x 17mm height, titanium (grade 2), Tantalum and Sedna™ gold
Water resistance: 300m (30 bar)
Movement: In house calibre 9900, automatic, chronograph with a column-wheel mechanism
Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 60h
Functions: Central hour, minute and chronograph seconds hands, small seconds hand, 12-hour and 60-minute recorders
Strap: Titanium, tantalum and Sedna™ gold bracelet
Price/availability: £16,540, numbered edition model
More details at Omega.
