In 1995, GoldenEye put James Bond in an Omega for the first time instead of a Rolex. Pierce Brosnan wore a Seamaster 300M, the reference 2541.80. Fast forward to 2006 and Casino Royale, Daniel Craig's first outing as Bond, and the reference 2220.80 was on his wrist. That later watch is the one we are looking at here.
We have had this watch in our shop more times than we can count. It is a favorite among collectors, for good reasons. If you want a solid, reliable everyday piece that still carries some semi-vintage appeal, this Omega is a fantastic option.
The 2006 refresh
Omega's Seamaster line started in 1948, and it is still the oldest model in the Omega catalog. The 2220.80 was a mid-cycle refresh that replaced the 2531.80. Omega dressed the watch up a little, switching to applied indices and an applied logo on the dial instead of printing. This is also where Omega introduced its first-generation Co-Axial movement, the calibre 2500. You still get the aluminum bezel, which tends to develop a nice patina over time, and the signature wave-pattern dial.
Competition for the Submariner
The Seamaster 300M gets compared to the Rolex Submariner constantly, and it is a fair comparison. A lot of what makes the Submariner so popular is here too. It is a sporty diver you can wear casually or dress up without much effort. This SMP lines up most naturally against the Rolex 16610 Submariner.
On the wrist
On the wrist, it wears smaller than its 41mm would suggest. I would say it fits most people like a glove. This is the kind of everyday watch you can just leave on, whatever you are doing. It works with jeans and a t-shirt, at a cocktail party, or at the pool. It also has a few design touches that set it apart from the Submariner. The wave-pattern dial is done tastefully and with restraint, and the twisted lyre lugs, an Omega signature, are as comfortable as they are good-looking.
Value
Pre-owned, an Omega Seamaster 2220.80 runs roughly $2,500 to $3,500 depending on condition and whether it comes with box and papers. Set that against the $9,500 to $10,000 you would pay for a 16610, and it looks like a genuine bargain for an everyday dive watch.
At a glance
| Brand | Omega |
|---|---|
| Series | Seamaster 300M |
| Model No. | 2220.80 |
| Diameter / Thickness | 41mm / 12.75mm |
| Movement | Omega Co-Axial 2500 |
If you are around Springfield or anywhere in Northern Virginia and want an everyday Omega you can actually live with, the Seamaster 2220.80 is an easy one to recommend. We buy and sell certified pre-owned Omega, so come by and try one on. You can also see what is in stock in our Omega collection.
