Omega Seamaster vs Rolex Submariner: Dive Watch Rivals Compared In Depth

[@ALL-il1sw]

I just went down the rabbit hole of watch accuracy. I wanted to know why Rolex and Omega had different results and if there was different parameters set at time of testing each. It's a bit long winded but this is what I found out. Superlative: Rolex test their watches for 24 hrs both static and in a contraption that moves the watch to resemble real life scenarios. Ie. The self winding rotor will add power to the main spring during the test. Metas: Metas specify the watch must be tested to 70% main spring depletion. So how's this different. Think about a spring completely compressed, it stores explosive energy, in contrast the same spring only slightly compressed stores less explosive energy. Watchmakers call this amplitude, the amplitude will reduce along with the power reserve depletion which in turns causes issues with accuracy, as that explosive energy drops, the regulation of the watch changes. This is a main contributor to mechanical watch inaccuracy. The Seamaster 55hr power reserve depleted to 30% during the test. This test will go for about 38ish hours. Longer than the Rolex and with no replenishment of the power reserve. This watch must maintain accuracy to 0 to +5 sec per day. The Submariner on the other hand, 70hr power reserve is tested for 24 hrs and the main spring is replenished (unknown by how much) during the test. This test means the power reserve cannot go below 70% and may very well stay above 80% through out the test. This is significantly less depletion than Omega and records accuracy of -2 to +2 sec per day. ​So who wins? Well that depends on how you intend to use your watch. Rolex are definitely not cheating, they are regulating their watches to an everyday wearer. Which means you should get what they claim if you wear all day every day. ​Omega on the other hand, you can put it down for a day and a half, no watch winder and it will only be 1 sec off the Rolex. I'll make the assumption here that if the Omega was tested for 24hrs only with power reserve replenishment through out, the results would improve significantly. If you double down and do the same with the planet Ocean which splits the main spring over 2 seperate barrels, it should get better again because 2 barrels in theroy should reduce amplitude drop significantly. The conclusion I came to is both are great timepieces, Omega have just set a more difficult bar to which they subject their watches to in terms of accuracy parameters

[@TheSuaveEntrepreneur]

WOW. Great research 🙌🏼

[@NeoWahNah]

Thanks for taking the time to do the research and sharing! Very informative!

[@skzion2]

Really interesting. Thanks.

[@SavedbybGrace]

Yep, great explanation, thanks. I have the Planet Ocean Master C. It’s just an amazing watch. It’s more of a match for the Rolex than the 300 reviewed. Mine is the 43.5 variant, quite hefty compared to theses slim pieces… and you know… I love that big chunky feel, and I only have a small wrist, under 17cm. To my eye it looks great and feels very comfortable.

[@vinhnguyen5345]

Great review. I own a white dial Omega Seamaster wearing it about a year now. I thought the size was a little bid bigger on my wrist at first but after wearing it for a while I feel ok and love the way it looks, I totally agree with you the Rolex Submariner is more recognizable than Omega Seamaster. However, to catch the eye on these two watches I think the Omega Seamaster is a winner.

[@michaelostassr.2771]

Spectacular camera work. Thanks. I own the 300smp in blue. Changed original bracelet, found it a little binding, to a ploprof mesh bracelet. Wears invisible now on my 7.75 wrist. Wife likes mesh bracelet better also. She encouraged this watch purchase 4yrs ago. Never had a problem with dress shirts. Love my omega!

[@tricster4u]

Hi sir! Did you pick genuine mesh Omega bracelet that retails at around 750 euros or picked a good quality one from Ebay?

[@MFloresReviews]

James Bond was a real person. He was an ornithologist who wrote ‘Birds of the West Indies’ 😂😂😂

[@HydrogenAlpha]

If Omega could shave 1.5 to 2 mm off the Seamaster’s diameter it would be a slam dunk for them. And the funny thing is, when you look at it through the case back, it looks like it wouldn’t be hard to fit this movement into a smaller case.

[@StephenMorganCanada]

I do agree.

[@stu632]

Agree but they also do wonderful things with the case design so that it does look slimmer.

[@skzion2]

It could easily do this if it hid the movement.

[@anthonyb2990]

And if they ditch that 5 dollar looking bracelet

[@jcnole77]

And a tapered bracelet

[@bobney569]

Even if these watches were the same specification, which they aren’t - the SMP is better, the Omega wins hands down for both price and availability. It’s time for people to get over the Rolex BS and move on to manufactures that treat their customers with respect.

[@jcnole77]

so because its cheaper and you can walk into a store to buy it is not a very good argument. You just proved why rolex is better. Omega does have better movement and imo it does look better

[@bobney569]

Err, on the contrary, it’s the perfect argument for buying the Omega SMP. By all means, dream about buying a Submariner………..one day - but you’ll be paying way over the odds for it and then be terrified to wear the thing in public. Like I said in the original post, if you’re happy to play Rolex’s silly games, then go ahead and join the queue……

[@fj7509]

@@bobney569 Cut the BS. You can NOT justify a brand being better than another just because they're readily available. The only reason Rolex products aren't readily available is because there's a higher demand for them. They make 1 million watches a year, yet there's a rarity aspect because every single watch gets purchased by a customer, meaning Omega is not a better brand OR a better watch. Any watchmaker will attest to that. Ask them if they like to service an Omega or Rolex and see what they say bro.

[@bobney569]

@@fj7509 The only BS here is the Rolex fanboy BS that you have swallowed hook, line and sinker pal. Good luck buying your Rolex unicorn watch - if you can afford one and if you can get one…..

[@fj7509]

@@bobney569 The Omega Seamaster is made for the wannabe boy. He just turned 21 and tries to start drama at the bar and brags about how much he can drink, but he never puts money where his mouth is. The Rolex Submariner is the 50 year old vet who's been around the block. He's a wise man who knows everyone at the bar but chooses to keep to himself, and he puts the annoying boy in his place by drinking him under the table.

[@ChrisCom.]

Never thought id say it, but I now prefer Omega to Rolex. Quality, value, price points, overall look, history, boxes you can't beat it?

[@stamatislevantis4944]

Interesting to see this review as I have both exact same watches, First of Tim is on point with his review. I love them both for different reasons. The rolex in this color scheme is more unique and it does wear better than the omega on a bracelet IMHO. I wear the white dial seamaster on a white rubber strap and love it. If i had to sell one it would be the rolex. The white dial seamaster is my favorite of the two.

[@steelsteez6118]

Beautiful. The white rubber strap you have is that the stock rubber strap or the new rubber strap? I don't know much about it but I believe I heard that omega just came out with a new omega rubber strap.. Does this sound right?

[@stamatislevantis4944]

@@steelsteez6118 The rubber strap i got from zealander

[@Sleepy-Gary1]

@@stamatislevantis4944 the white smp looks so good on a white zealande

[@kcmullins6179]

I own the omega seamaster professional 300m 1993 model. It's the 41mm I love it. Iv had it since 2006 and wear it daily and I do have the Rolex presidential 18k gold and I also got the submariner with a white dial black bezel white gold band... ridiculously pricey.. now I can tell ya my personal favorite is the omega hands down. It's much more reliable then the rolexs are. But it's personal preference... ppl see Rolex they think $$$ and ppl see the omega and some don't know what it is.. and think nice but not expensive.. when in fact the omega is $5,000 + watch all day long. Both are amazing both are beautiful both are bad ass watches hands down. I suggest picking up the seamaster over the submariner unless your doing it as a investment the Rolex will hold its stupid high value and the omega will drop a grand but maybe it'll jump up who knows lol. But when it comes to build quality the omega walks all over it.. it keeps time better it's just better built.. in my opinion

[@Niobium23]

I have the 41mm sub with the black bezel. There is more than just a mystique to the submariner, there is an undefinable feel of extreme quality. In the hand and on the wrist it has a density, the bracelet is silky feeling. Every interaction through the crown is a joy. Hand wind a 3235 movement and then hand wind any other movement. If, like me, you love all things mechanical, the Rolex will change you forever. Your standards will reset to an almost impossible level. For me personally, the Rolex has lent a richness to my love of watches.

[@TheWayofGrace89]

Wow that’s pretty great insight TY

[@Futurama10000]

Perfect description. I've got the 116610LN and theres something about it that just puts it above any competitors

[@alihilly1]

You have the watch in question and you prefer it over any other ones? Shocking, who’d have thought lol

[@ripperx444]

Rolex is for sheep

[@Niobium23]

@@alihilly1 I thought about this before replying, since this was a comparison video I felt comfortable commenting with my opinion. I collect watches and try to be impartial. I get as much joy out of my Seiko monster as I do my sub. It’s just different. To deny it would be not providing honest information. There are logical engineering aspects to the Rolex that must be felt to be understood. More so with the Rolex than any other watch I’ve handled. Why, because it has a special feel. A quality feel that defines it.

[@johnthomas424]

I enjoyed and agree on your video. I do believe that the Omega's mechanics on paper is much more Superior than the Rolex Submariner. Also the Helium Escape valve is a landmark for the Omega as if a person could notice it across the room. I own several Rolexes and also the new generation black on black which I purchase in the 8K range 2021 at my authorized Rolex dealer. I feel more at ease wearing my Omega then my Rolex out in public However, I really enjoy wearing my white dial "GREAT WHITE" Omega SMP300. By the way could you make a comparison between the blue Tudor Pelicos versus the orange rubber insert on the ceramic bezel of the Omega Planet Ocean? I think that would be an interesting comparison. I have my eyes on both of them but, hesitating on pulling the trigger. In advance thank you.

[@ae-ca602]

If I can walk into a Rolex boutique and find a sub, then I would go with Rolex. But because of the availability issue, I would go with GS Sport Diver Spring Drive. If price is an issue, Tudor BB a great alternative.

[@skzion2]

I guess I'm not the only guy to notice this watch. Finally GS is doing something attractive with its dive watches.

[@MrAumbra]

I own several Omegas to include 2 Seamaster versions and I prefer them over the submariner however, my Datejust and Day Date are some of my favorite pieces in my collection. I don’t find the Seamaster to thick but the Aqua Terra isn’t as slim nor is it finished as well as the other two I mentioned. I will also add that the Daytona and Moonwatch both have their place in any collection. I think showing the movement is always preferable. Love both brands.

[@mendipfox1650]

I’ve got a Omega Seamaster Chronograph with the calibre 9900. It’s an amazing piece. Haven’t had to recalibrate the time in four months. Supremely accurate. I do have a soft spot for Rolex. Previously owned a GMT coke. All things considered, if the Rolex wasn’t worth double the list value on the secondary many people wouldn’t simply pay the extra over the Omega as your not really getting anything to justify the extra £5k. Omega for me is the better watch from a technical perspective, they are harder & take longer to make. Get yourself a bargain and pickup the Seamaster. Keep yourself in the hunt for the Rolex, in the unlikely event you get to buy and immediately flip one for double what you paid. Simple.

[@davidbrown9947]

I have the seamaster chronograph, in stainless steel and sedna gold, bought it 6 weeks ago. I had no intention of buying it, I tried it on out of curiosity . It blew me away on every level and I bought it two weeks later. It has not dropped a second in that time. It smashes my 3 subs on every level

[@mendipfox1650]

@@davidbrown9947 it’s an amazing watch on every level like you say. Funny, as I had no intention of buying mine either. I went in to try in a Speedy DSOTM and a Seamaster Aqua Terra. Tried on the 300m Chronograph just because it caught my eye and was simply taken back by the sheer brilliance of it. Love it so much. I’ve replaced the bracelet with a blue OEM rubber for summer. It makes it a lot more comfortable to wear at 144g.

[@davidbrown9947]

@@mendipfox1650 Mines on the rubber strap, it's brilliant.

[@SavedbybGrace]

@@mendipfox1650 Ha… You were smarter than me. I went in to buy the Moonwatch, 3861, saw it and was underwhelmed. Saw the SM300 which appealed to me but bought the 3861 assuming it would grow on me… Nope, flipped it 3 months later. Happy ending. Bought the Planet Ocean 43.5 Master C with leather/rubber strap. Absolutely incredible piece! It’s the one watch I have that I’ll keep for life.

[@mrbud8524]

I own both. My Omega Seamaster 300 42m blue keeps the time better than my Sub for value for Money has be one Winner here The Omega Seamaster 300 42m

[@marcocastagnetti7086]

I think it's just the case of further refinements for Omega, reduce case height maybe exclude the case back desplay, taper the braclet and reduce the huge clasp would be a great start.

[@TheSuaveEntrepreneur]

Agree on the bracelet and case thickness

[@EdwardViaTomato]

Although I'm a fan of the "cermit" Sub (also rootbeer and Oysterflex Yachtmaster), I generally prefer the Seamaster. also, if price isn't an issue, I still wouldn't buy the cermit. I'd buy a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe.

[@aaronhewlett2067]

The Omega calibre 8800 is an in house movement. Nothing to do with ETA. Great review as always.

[@lp9280]

Agree... although lines between Omega and ETA are kind of blurry, where does Omega end and ETA begins. I guess any movement that one can't buy in bulk from ETA is Omega, but likely the same people are making the movements in the same building, just in different rooms.

[@aaronhewlett2067]

@@lp9280 You know, you're most likely right.

[@fj7509]

@@aaronhewlett2067 Lol, Omega IS an ETA movement. Search it up. ETA makes the movement for Omega, same as how Richemont makes movements for Cartier.

[@firebearva]

I have the Omega and would like to buy the Rolex, but unfortunately at age 72 I will probably be taking my eternal dirt nap when the Rolex AD gives me 'the call'. Thanks in part to the flippers.

[@skyworks1621]

Great comparison. I do have Submariner date and Seamaster on rubber strap all 2022 models and both are great. Omega has a more fun more diverse dial that looks great. Rolex feels just a bit better build. When moving wrist quick near ear Omega movment is loud, Rolex silet. But I do wear Omega way more because it is so comfortable with rubber strap. I love them both.

[@Paul-if1jq]

I have the green Omega Seamaster 300, its a very nice watch, I actually like the Hellim escape value it makes it a Seamaster, sets it a part so-to-speak. I had the opportunity of blue and green, I originally thought I wanted Blue, but the green is something else. Still on the wait list for the Rolex Daytona - who knows when that will arrive.

[@ticktology]

How many enthusiasts would take the Cermit over the SMP 300m if they were readily available and not worth more than 2x retail on the grey market? Both of these dive watches are absolutely stunning. I own a black SMP 300m & would love a Cermit one day. To me, they could both fit within a collection quite nicely. Excellent comparison video, Tim.

[@jcnole77]

I would take the smp all day if they were priced the same. It’s the price that makes it more attractive to me. I got the black face but was torn between this white face and black face.

[@leeharding8306]

Both nice. I have the Seamaster and I’ve had the Sub in hand many times. The Rolex is almost perfect and the Omega need one more revision like the new Speedmaster. A bit thinner a bit shorter and a slimmed down bracelet. Also the bezel needs improving. The anti reflective on the outside of the crystal is a bad move for me too. Still a nice watch and much better value than the Rolex and the Rolex has all the baggage of being a Rolex wearing douche bag and having to pay stupid money to get one. If you can get the Rolex for retail then great. Sell straight away and buy a Omega.

[@rogerb1964]

The Seamaster is my only Omega and I love it. But my Subs still win. And the simple reason is the bezel - the digits are too large like on a GMT. Makes it look a bit tacky. Its the way more interesting watch to look at but when it comes to style the Sub wins, in any color.

[@Angry_Gnome]

@@stanwilson7040 Your opinion, and you know what they say about those.

[@IrishScribbler]

@@stanwilson7040 Err no it isn’t. The black Submariners are considered classics, but the bogey green Hulk is considered a more acquired taste by most. Even the Seaweed green Seamaster is being touted as a nicer looking watch, better value and technically superior to the Submariner. I suggest you go back to playing with your crayons now. Twat.

[@driller7714]

@@stanwilson7040 I think the SeaMaster is every bit as aesthetically pleasing as the Submariner.

[@driller7714]

@@stanwilson7040 Minority? Perhaps. Tiny? Hardly. You don’t like masculine looking watches, who am I to judge?

[@marctavo5288]

Regardless of the quality of the Rolex as it's impossible to find at retail price and need to be put on a hypothetical waiting list and wait years or you need to pay 4 times the price to get one. Omega is the best .............

[@truthserum9157]

I’ve had many brands of watches, Omega SMP300M is what I’m wearing now, I’ve been checking the accuracy lately, it’s been around 0.4 seconds per day fast or around 18 seconds per month, I’m hard on my watches I wear them everyday after all they are a tool watch, i think for the price it’s worth every penny.

[@stu632]

Price no object........both 😃 They are both great. I have both. The Omega is more interesting to look at and very satisfying, but can feel heavy sometimes, I love the bracelet but sometimes I wish it would taper. The Rolex is more refined and you always feel a wee bit more special with a Rolex on. We are all suckers for branding.

[@michaelphillips5263]

After a certain amount of time, who gives a crap about "heritage", TIm? Omega 300M has been around for more than 30 years vs. 70 for Rolex -- so what?

[@aleincostarica]

I think the better watch is the one one likes! In my case, I wanted a real professional divers watch, so I got the Omega because it has the He valve which is necessary for a professional diver. Of course if you like the Rolex and a professional diver watch is not required, the by all means, get the Rolex.

[@brentonl2631]

I have this Rolex and love wearing it, I also have the Omega with the white dial and grey dial which again I love. The problem I get with the Rolex is I always get the question "is it real" but never with the Omega, frustrating that.

[@ohroonoko]

I love the white and the green Seamaster Diver 300M’s. I have an original from 2000. Probably Omega’s best watch. Yes the Speedmaster Moonwatch is more “iconic” but frankly it’s not as nice.

[@WatchUnwind]

Seamaster really is an amazing watch I have the grey dial blue bezel

[@wineman88881]

I think that is a very fair comparison and review. The Rolex is probably objectively better for the reasons you state, but is it 100% higher cost better? To me, no way. Also, you can't get them, so there is that. Finally, the Omega is just a very cool watch, especially in that color scheme. I have it so I am biased I guess, but to me it is the Omega hands down considering the cost versus quality factor. Also, as you mention, the SMP wears incredibly well on a strap, both looks and feel. IF the Rolex was available, and if it was a bit cheaper than maybe I would go that way, but all things considered definitely the SMP for me.

[@theamazingmrz317]

Coming from someone who got their sub years ago, it’s hard to justify the new $10k MSRP. $7-8k is fair but $10k is just excessive for what you get. Glad it’s not my problem but good luck to all!

[@muyuanhe356]

If you take crazy inflation into account.

[@WickedRichie]

If 2k is a huge deal you shouldn't have an 8K watch anyways

[@theamazingmrz317]

@@WickedRichie Seems like the point is way over your head. Wish you the best

[@muyuanhe356]

@@theamazingmrz317 Lol nice one. I also find it hard to justify 8k to begin with... although I did buy a 2tone sub...

[@omarion07]

@@theamazingmrz317 In horology hierarchy, Rolex is simply placed over Omega. That’s a fact. You’re mainly paying a higher margin for brand recognition… but you’re also paying for R&D, marketing, employees salaries and a portion of whatever ADs charge Rolex. If brand recognition isn’t worth the extra $ 3k then Rolex isn’t for you. The sub is also an icon that dates back to 1953, SMP 300 on the other hand, is 40 years younger. This means a lot in the watch world.

[@abymathew295]

But Roles makes more money on their watches.unpolishesd movements, steel case back, Hype...They are the Apple of watch companies out there.

[@matt554]

I bought the Tokyo 2020 Seamaster variant last year. IMO the Seamaster is better looking and I hope to enjoy it on my wrist for decades to come. I think he forgot to mention the Seamaster is more anti magnetic then the Sub but maybe I missed it.

[@jeromef.5489]

My Omega slips easily under a cuff, heck, James Bond wore his all the time with a tuxedo. Anyway, own both Omega and Rolex, and love each equally.

[@jtwu8931]

The feel on turning of bezels tells you why.

[@MegaBlackley]

Like the band on the Sub better, but the Seamaster smokes the Sub in every other way save for the unnecessary helium escape valve. That white dial... there's just no comparison IMO.

[@gerardswinley4736]

I would buy the Sinn U50... great comparison though 👍🏻

[@WatchUnwind]

Lucky enough to own a Rolex OP 41 and an omega seamaster. I’m glad I don’t have to choice between the brands and can experience both

[@H0rseMac]

Don’t compare an oyster perpetual to a submariner lmao.

[@WatchUnwind]

@@H0rseMac I should be getting a sub later this year but the OP is an awesome watch. I like it better than the sub as it’s more versatile and has enough water resistance for everything I use it for

[@Mark-lj1dj]

I bought that exact seamaster as my first luxury watch. Its also my money no object watch. For me it beats any rolex hands down. I'm not interested in watches as investments. I'm going to wear it every day and never sell it. The coaxial escapement is a definite selling point. Service intervals every 8 to 10 years

[@impoautosguatemala9847]

I would go for the omega, but I would go with the rolex if I can get it at retail price, for me is dumb to pay over $20k in a steel watch, for that reason omega is a better watch for ur money.

[@dnlmoretti]

Seamaster all day. I’d only think the sub was a worthwhile buy if it were in the same price bracket as the seamaster tbh - at 10+ grand I’d opt for a GO SeaQ any day of the week

[@LlyleHunter]

I really like the micro adjustable band on the SEAQ and the position of the date window. Great watch.

[@dnlmoretti]

@@LlyleHunter and so much more value on all fronts than the sub. Rolex makes great watches don’t get me wrong, but I just don’t understand the hype when you can get truly special pieces for what a hulk goes for on the secondary market… for 20k I’d be much more inclined to get a LUC minute repeater or a 50 fathoms…

[@omarion07]

@@dnlmoretti jeez I’ve been reading the same boring comments over and over again… yes yes we get it… Rolex is overhyped. Can you people not come up with anything new??

[@dnlmoretti]

@@omarion07 what else is there to say? 😂 even the humble Aquis outperforms the sub in a number of categories - Rolex makes great watches, no doubt about it - I just don’t think they’re the end all be all of horology.

[@omarion07]

@@dnlmoretti then go buy an Aquis.. and all the watches “better “ than Rolex

[@SaltBhj]

I’ll have to agree with Tim here, the Sub is the better watch, it has the history and the recognizability behind it, and with this new 41mm version, it is technically better. That said, I’d definitely get the Seamaster.

[@Henrik2000]

Two amazing watches. I already own the Omega and I would buy the Rolex if it was available at retail.

[@bdg5593]

Good luck

[@Henrik2000]

@@bdg5593 thanks. I guess patience is key. Hopefully one day they will be more available🙏

[@WatchUnwind]

I have an OP 41 green and an omega sea master. Both are amazing watches. I got mine at retail but it took a lot of time on the wait list

[@Henrik2000]

@@WatchUnwind great combo

[@WatchUnwind]

@@Henrik2000 thank you Henrik ! Please do me a solid and check out and subscribe to my own small KZbin channel I’d greatly appreciate it

[@jonwarshawsky5288]

For style and heritage, the Rolex is my choice, if you can find one at list price. Omega has a whiff of paid product placement about it, which somewhat cheapens the brand. Both excellent watches, obviously. The resale price of the Submariner offsets its higher list price.

[@simongardiner6603]

Just purchased a blue Seamaster today, I have a black Rolex Submariner in for service with Rolex dealer, requires a new bezel but I won’t get the watch back for 6 months because of shortage of parts! Who wants to own a watch you can’t ware for the summer totally finished with Rolex as soon as I get it back it’s up for sale.

[@edgardo1166]

Rolex is just more popular. That's it. Omega all day. No rolex is worth its grey market price.

[@bdg5593]

$5000 for the omega or $25000 for the Rolex. Kinda a no brainer

[@edgardo1166]

@@bdg5593 yeah seriously...

[@lihanou]

@@Tobester_McDonkey exactly. The bezel is hard to turn when your hand is dry and cold. The sound is inconsistent and isn't as crunchy as the submariner's. I don't even wanna talk about the bracelet - i replaced it with a rubber band right away.

[@MFloresReviews]

The Rolex is superior. But just by a hair. However it’s priced 2-3 times the Omega. The Sub is not 2 times the watch that the SMP is. It’s only just a little bit better. For the price of some Rolexes, you can buy JLC which is far superior.

[@sylinmino]

"Rolex is just more popular. That's it." Yeah, if you bury your head in the sand and didn't even watch this video. It's clearly a superior watch in virtually every way. Not worth grey price, but definitely worth retail.

[@explorerjlc1743]

15:15 the SMP isn't aging gracefully again, won't be surprised if they refresh it in the next 5 years and its looks change substantially again...

[@bber45]

Seamaster hands down. Better movement, more accurate, and better magnetic protection. And 10k+ for a Submariner ? Lol nope. Having owned a sub from two generations ago, it does have a special place in my heart. Sold it though when the 2018 seamaster and became my daily driver.

[@az-chris1136]

I do not like the Cyclops magnifier over the date window, nor do I like the Mercedes indicator on the hour hand . . . basically, I do not like Rolex styling cues. My only "complaint" with the Omega is the helium escape valve, as it does detract from the overall appearance of the watch. A professional diver that would benefit from having this valve would more likely be looking elsewhere for a dive timing piece than the Omega Diver 300. Overall, I'd take the Omega over the Rolex, regardless of price differences.

[@WatchUnwind]

That’s not a helium escape valve it’s a little bicep because the seamaster is flexing on the sub

[@jumboJetPilot]

My argument against the HEV is different than most. With all other brands, the HEV is integrated and automatic. With the SMP, a saturation diver would have to remember to unlock the crown in order to allow for the HEV to operate. That’s something that they would conscientiously have to remember whereas with almost all other brands that have them, because they’re fully automatic, the diver wouldn’t have to think about it. Now that said, what saturation diver on the entire planet is actually wearing these watches for saturation diving?!? And yes, I do know a saturation diver. And he laughs at the idea of wearing an expensive mechanical watch for saturation diving! Now that said, I do like the SMP better overall. Its non-AR crystal, which is integrated with the bezel’ convex plane, simply looks better than Rolex’s protruded, flat, crystal that isn’t AR treated. Rolex fan boys frequently gloss right over Rolex’s absolutely useless cyclopse lens en route to blasting Omega’s HEV. I also find the case nuisances of the Omega to be more interesting as well. I also think that there is absolutely nothing even remotely interesting about a plain dial (Rolex) that aims not to offend rather than to actually be interesting. I also think there is way too much printing on a Rolex dial. Most of that should be relocated to the case back which, in almost unbalanced fashion, has absolutely no printing on it at all. Cases can certainly be made about either watch being better than the other. But one thing can be objectively said - the Submariner absolutely isn’t three times better than the Omega. But that’s the pricing differential one would have to pay for the Submariner.

[@driller7714]

@@WatchUnwind😂

[@Chris_mueller]

I have both watches. While in my heart I am a Omega guy, I do find the Rolex to be better built and more mature/serious looking. The bezel is flawess, the Omega one has some movement (both planet ocean and 300 diver). It also moves much smoother on the Rolex. The outside reflection coating on my planet ocean I had to polish away as it started looking like scratches after only months. Also comparing the helium valve from Seadweller to the seamaster. I do like the look on the Seamaster of it, as it makes it a bit more interesting. But on the diver 300, it almost looks like it was placed with wrong measurement as there is a gap the to house casing on one side. I love my Omegas and the 300 diver will remain my daily wear. However, I do feel that Rolex is a small class better overall. But then of course, there is also a substantial price difference.

[@BjoyceGT]

I recently purchased a new white dial SMP300 and I love it as an everyday watch. A big consideration for me was as Tim pointed out people knowing what’s on your wrist. I’ve seen non watch people spot Rolex in public since it’s such a big name in luxury like Louis or Gucci is to clothing, but only watch people will know the Omega which I feel safer wearing. I plan on a Batman for my next watch as I feel Rolex has superior GMT pieces but for divers that might take a beating I like the Seamaster.

[@KMartineauMuisc]

I own both the 126610LV and the Green Ceramic Omega Seamaster 300... To compare the two at all is a laugh... The Rolex is better in every way full stop. But in terms of availability and cost, Omega is a great proposition. I have also worn Rolex for years (many types) and never once, has someone asked me if it was real, that worry is completely ridiculous.

[@Azuluth]

Omega please.

[@nathancortes3722]

The metal on the Omega looks a bit darker, like it has a Titanium tone. BTW how do you get larger date numerals like 28, 26, 25 on that very narrow date window? It looks like it has room for a single digit at most. 'Planned obsolescence' though, that phrase doesn't mean what you think it does.

[@lp9280]

You touched on that so no point going into too much details, but you can go and buy Omega today, come to the shop and walk out with in on your wrist not even 15 minutes later. If you pay whole price they may even offer you a discount (10-20% is achievable in my experience). You can't buy Rolex for list price, if you lucky and if you by few cheaper ones as a gift for you wife, maybe in 2-3 years time you will have "privilege" to pay $10600 to get one. Yes you can walk out trough the door, stop stranger and sell it on the sport for $14-16,000 cash in hand and they go further than that depending on colour - like green one in particular can be $20k+... but is it really worth it if you not planning to flip it for the profit? I could have bought Rolex, I may have been able to get "recommendation" and skip few years, but I just could not handle the snobbism of the company creating this fake demand and fake exclusivity by restricting supply. So Omega is my answer, I do prefer Speedmaster looks thought, but on other hand Seamaster is better everyday watch and Speedmaster has real issues with practical water resistance, whereas you can be more relaxed and careless with Seamaster. And considering you are more likely to swim in the sea than go to the moon... I say get Seamaster if that is your only watch.

[@equanimity3861]

sub vs diver300 , rolex wins. daytona vs moonwatch, omega wins. i'd love to have both, but unfortunately rolex is only available on grey market.

[@Sirkelsag666]

If I could by the Rolex for retail price then I would, but not secondhand. To expensive for me. On the other hand I prefer the Omega Seamaster 300 Heritage over the 300m Pro Diver.

[@CombatRat]

Is there any question that the Rolex is not twice as good as the Omega? If you normalize all of the comparison points based on price, I think the SMP is the clear winner. Price aside (and assuming you could actually buy it), the sub probably wins. Push come to shove, I'm hoping to get a white dial SMP and still have money left for a dress watch. You could nearly have the SMP and a JLC Reverso for the retail price of the sub.

[@carloslargaespada6051]

You know folks, Omega uses Rhodium for the dial hands and the hour markers while Rolex uses white gold...fun fact, Rhodium is twice the value of Platinum, and platinum is roughly 30%-40% more valuable than white gold. So it seems that Omega is using better precious metals for the esthetic looks of their watches!

[@StephenMorganCanada]

Had both long ago. The one I miss and want again is the Omega. Concerned the move to 42mm will no longer suite my small wrist.

[@DrRandomStranger]

What about weight? Indices material of the seamasters? Origin of bracelets?

[@WatchUnwind]

Nothing beats a Rolex bracelet

[@fadiinspace]

What makes the sub superior in my opinion is wearability. The smp looks much larger. I really appreciate Tim’s much needed re-evaluation of the wearability on smaller wrists. The smp case will have better ergonomics on the wrist if it was smaller. A 38mm version of this watch with a tapering bracelet and thinner clasp could actually win this contest. Not yet, however. That said, I actually think the previous 40mm version of the sub actually wears better. Although on paper the dimensions are almost identical somehow this one looks larger on the wrist.

[@neilmartin7776]

Omega all day. Everything from the case, to the dial, to the bracelet is just more nuanced and designed with form as well as function in mind. The Rolex is more luxury - at least on brand name - but it's still essentially a tool watch in its DNA. That's not a bad thing, but the Omega is just a bit prettier, to me at least. Also Omega have the coaxial movement and less of the baggage associated with the Rolex. I'm less likely to be mugged for the Omega, I'm more likely to wear it anywhere.

[@dnlmoretti]

💯 the sub’s case is really not attractive to me at all

[@neilmartin7776]

@@dnlmoretti I think the Sub's case is nice, it's certainly well made, but it's not pretty. It's been designed to do a job well, and it does - but with Omega, they've done the same but also thought about how it looks aesthetically.

[@driller7714]

@@neilmartin7776Exactly. This is why I prefer the YachtMaster over the Submariner.

[@puruthacker9700]

The sub is superior head to head. However, have to keep in mind that the sub is double the price too. If you plan on keeping the watch the omega is more value for money. If you’re a flipper then obviously the sub is the better investment (if you can get one 🙄)

[@kofiofosu9051]

At current market prices, 300 m. Previous gen sub bought at list 7-8 years ago from AD was a reasonable winner.

[@laurentsantamaria2296]

Hello everyone Nice video of two very good watches The Rolex is top but shame on the dealers and on the brand. Everybody know the problem but nothing is done by ROLEX. No more pleasure to enter into any ROLEX AD. The OMEGA is also a top watch and there is many very cool versions and you can buy nearly all of them. Caliber is superior and admirable with the saphir of the back case, quality is very high and the OMEGA FAMILLY is great. I will buy ASAP to the new green Diver 300M or may be this one with the white dial ……… no I’ll buy both because you know what ? IT’S POSSIBLE !! Best regards

[@1000lightyrs]

Omega case bit thicker than Rolex Rolex case far less character than Omega

[@IrishScribbler]

Tim, please do a review of the new green Seamaster. As a Rolex owner I’m eager to see if the rumours of the clasp and bracelet on the SMP being slightly tapered are true. 🙏 Thanks.

[@breakdownshakedown71]

It's not tapered

[@hokie4life03]

Price no object, I would get the Yacht Master 126622, but I will probably purchase the Seamaster and have money left over to holiday in Grand Cayman!

[@WatchUnwind]

Well said lol the price difference you could Definitely do a lot

[@MiamiMark]

Great comparison, Tim! Omega has A LOT to offer, but my pick is the Sub also.

[@thegorn]

Price no object I'd still buy the Omega. Just looks more fun and more youthful.

[@gavinBsussex]

Nobody ever thinks that your Omega is a fake and those that know about watches always give you a nod when you are wearing the SMP300. Unless you are mega rich everyone asks "is that a fake Rolex?" That alone says everything about these two brands. Me, I prefer the Omega for being pretty unique. If you really need a Submariner then Buy a Ginault to get 90% of the Rolex for 15 times less price on the grey market. Much more reasonable.

[@galaga8834]

and keep lying to yourself.

[@driller7714]

That’s just what I did. My Ginault should be here in a few weeks and I’ll be headed to the Omega dealer to get my SeaMaster. Two watches for less than the price of one = Win!

[@Kiro6666]

I wonder why they didn’t write anything on the back end side of the watch $10.000 is a lot of cash extremely expensive

[@31-seconds-ago71]

Tim do a: "Black titanium 50 Fathoms 45mm" vs "black 42mm panerai submersible (i.e. PAM683 or similar)" vs "black Rolex submarine"r!!

[@rnickiford]

I own a great white SMP I love the watch but given the choice the Submariner is just a better overall the stainless steel bracelet on the SMP is very bad to the point most people just wear it on the rubber which that alone disqualifies it in comparison I hate to say that if Omega truly wants to compete with the sub they need to fix once and for all the strap have it taper a little tone down the gigantic clasp and smooth out all the sharp edges I have a feeling in the next year the new model will have these improvements the only other issue is I hope they don't go too with a Submariner one of its advantages is its timeless from the first to the current model they basically look the same which is a plus in my opinion

[@carloslargaespada6051]

I also think for the price of the Rolex, I would buy the Omega 300 and a Tudor Pelagos or Grand Seiko....c'meon!

[@seekelnasr]

Honestly, if u r a watch addict, u know u have to have both, at a certain stage in ur life, its the urge. So lets cut the comparisom BS 😂 They r both so beautiful, but its like comparing apples and oranges

[@ubergaard]

Love Omega.. but why make it larger😢 its idiotic! 40mm is the absolute best size. Period

[@bmunson4920]

Yatch-master 40 - you get the same movement as the Submariner, and a better case.

[@robertschmidt9584]

Why not have both? But I’ll take the Seamaster.

[@bdg5593]

I have both and the Omega gets more wear

[@jtwu8931]

I have both and I regret buying SMP

[@derell618]

I’d wear the omega on special occasions and weekends but keep the Rolex as an investment.

[@warrenrhinerson6373]

Omega is actually more fitting with the original James Bond character then modern day Rolex. Ian Fleming chose Rolex for bond because they were reasonably expensive but not so much that your every day man couldn’t afford one if they saved up and were designed to take a hell of a beating and still work fine.

[@clf1905]

The omega has a ETA movement?

[@WatchUnwind]

No it’s in house

[@ALL-il1sw]

So in your mind Rolex has an Aegler movement right?

[@WatchUnwind]

@@ALL-il1sw Rolex has an in house movement

[@ALL-il1sw]

@@WatchUnwind yeah I know I was challenging CLF on their train of thought

[@WatchUnwind]

@@ALL-il1sw 👍 hey brother can you do me a solid and check out my channel. I have some cool hands on videos witj brands like Ulysse Nardin and I have a crazy story that happens last week I had to fight a hobo to save someone and I got a wrist shot of the incident

[@danielmadsen9115]

Fully in-house movement - nothing to do with ETA. Great review as always though.

[@fj7509]

Nope, it is an ETA movement. Search it up. ETA makes the movement for Omega, same as how Richemont makes the movements for Cartier.

[@danielmadsen9115]

@@fj7509 It was previously but not anymore. I know for a fact :)

[@TobiasLindell1]

Had both, kept the Seamaster, but chasing a 116600 now =)

[@anthonyb2990]

The Sub is very wearable, I was shocked at how much smaller it wears compared to my SKX on the wrist.

[@tottenhamnole]

Anybody paying over $5,000 for a used SMP300 is out of their mind. They are all over the forums for between $3,800 and $4,300.

[@jscar7298]

True, but you got to be i real dope to pay $20,000 dollars for a used submariner. As the saying goes there's an ass for every seat.

[@SineFractal]

The fact that you can buy SMPs for less than $4000 will always make it better for 99% of people than the sub.

[@djk2063]

I bought the Omega Seamaster 300. Why? Because I could actually buy it. For retail. At the A.D. On the same day.

[@darrenaquilina1403]

Omega is the better watch, hands down, Rolex has a better bracelet and looks better though.

[@andrewvaughan5686]

Omega all day, only negative imo is the bracelet doesn't taper.

[@修理固成-p2t]

black green without date would be nicer.

[@amaurysanchez3450]

I’m a Reese’s pieces man my self, so omega. The laser waves game changer

[@DrRandomStranger]

The heart says Rolex, the wallet says Omega. I keep it as follows: Get on a list for a Rolex Sub, wait, save up the money, bounce back and forth between Omega and Rolex, and wear a Seiko.

[@usergrade1841]

Yeah - a helium escape valve isn't necessary, but neither is 300 meter water resistance in a several thousand dollar watch that's never going to see the ocean.

[@frankdux6930]

You really analyse and disect the specs of watches like a brain surgeon delivering a seminar. Well done.

[@skzion2]

I just despise the Rolex aesthetic, including that horrible cyclops. Some people complain about a date complication; it's dismal when it's magnified. I like how the Omega puts the date at 6. It's there if you want it. I'm not sure about the price business because you can't get the Rolex at MSRP. So the 10k price is a fantasy. The lume is much easier to read on the Omega. The history that is maintained by the Rolex is because Rolex doesn't bother to innovate. Even your camera work was patchy on this video. Maybe you weren't proud of this bit of clickbait.

[@cliffordgriffith818]

Tim, please do the rolex, sub mariner vs the tudor, pelagos, fxd ?

[@dr.emilschaffhausen4683]

I'm sorry, but there's really only one option. Buy both, except buy the no date sub.