Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT Watches Hands-On

For 2013, the newest member of the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean collection is the long-awaited Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT. Just before the annual Baselworld watch trade show event, we debuted to the world, the new Planet Ocean GMT GoodPlanet watch here. That blue and orange version of the new GMT watch bears the GoodPlanet foundation name, whom Omega teamed up with to produce a new environmentalist film with the name "Planet Ocean." Sales revenue of that specific piece will partially go to the foundation. However, in addition to the blue and orange GoodPlanet version of the GMT, we have a nice hands-on look at the other versions of the really nice new Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT timepieces.

As is the case with most new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean watches, these are difficult to photograph. That is due to the polished elements mixed with the slightly glossy black dial. Mediocre images aside, the PO GMT is a great looking watch. At launch, Omega does not disappoint by offering most of the color tones that people appreciate in the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean collection.

While the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT is a dive watch, Omega is careful not to call it a dive watch. Why? Well it technically isn't a "professional" dive watch despite its hardy construction and 600 meters of water resistance. Omega Seamaster collection watches that do fit the criteria for professional dive watches bear a "Professional" label on the dial. What prevents the GMT from being a pro diver? Mainly the lack of a rotating diver's bezel. As the watch is a GMT, it has a bi-directional 24 hour scale for the GMT hand. Moving it allows one to track a third time zone. A professional dive watch has a 60 minute uni-directional timing ring instead.

To be honest, it seems like a small technicality. For most intents and purposes, the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean is a fully capable diver, being included in a rather well-known dive watch family. As we mentioned in the debut post discussing the PO GMT, the best thing about it is probably the size. At 43.5mm wide, it sits between the smaller 42mm wide case and the 45mm wide case. Personally, I find this 43.5mm wide size to be perfect for daily wear. All sizes of the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean are quite comfortable, but for me the 43.5mm wide size is the right temperature of porridge.