Guardians Of The Deep
OMEGA, has been ticking all the right boxes for style, precision, and innovation for close to 200 years. Renowned for playing ‘timekeeper’ at the Olympics and for mingling with the likes of James Bond, they’ve crafted a legacy that is woven into global culture. While so much of their heritage is about the human mastery of materials and precision, they have also built a reputation for their support of the natural majesty of the world’s oceans.
Of course, this relationship with the ocean is an important part of OMEGA’s DNA. In the 1930s, OMEGA was making waves with underwater pioneers William Beebe and Otis Barton. Fast forward to 2018-2019, they were delving into the deepest, darkest oceanic corners with the Five Deeps Expeditions.
And with the same ethos that has gone into expeditions OMEGA has also formed notable partnerships with experts in ocean conservation. Nekton Foundation for example is a non-profit research organization, which is at the forefront of protecting our oceans. With a global goal of 30% protection by 2030, Nekton works diligently to explore and conserve marine ecosystems. Their missions and initiatives, developed in partnership with ocean nations, aim to establish scientific baselines, inform policy, and inspire conservation actions.
To support Nekton’s vital work, OMEGA introduced the ‘Seamaster Diver 300M Nekton Edition’. Sales from this edition contribute directly to the foundation’s efforts, symbolizing a stylish yet meaningful commitment to ocean conservation. Encased in robust stainless steel, it sports a laser-ablated black ceramic [ZrO2] dial, intricately designed to represent the ocean’s waves. The polished and brushed unidirectional rotating bezel is mounted on a 42 mm case, making a statement while maintaining wearability.
At its heart, the Nekton Edition operates on the OMEGA Master Chronometer Calibre 8806, renowned for its precision, anti-magnetism, and performance. The watch also gets its ocean-going credentials by way of its Master Chronometer certification, awarded by METAS, ensuring it can withstand the pressures of the deep sea and the challenges of daily life.
Beyond its technical specifications, the Nekton Edition carries a deeper meaning, serving as a tribute to the late Sir Peter Blake, a legendary sailor, and environmentalist. The watch represents a continuum of OMEGA’s commitment, not just to exploration and precision but to the conscientious stewardship of our marine environments.
And speaking of New Zealand sailing greats, OMEGA has also formed a partnership with Live Ocean, founded by sailors Peter Burling and Blair Tuke. The organization works towards connecting and igniting people about the role of a healthy ocean in a sustainable future.
OMEGA’s partnership with Live Ocean is multifaceted, encompassing support for both the foundation’s conservation work and the racing team’s competitions. This relationship showcases OMEGA’s deep-rooted history in sport and sailing, demonstrated through its associations with the Olympic Games, America’s Cup, and renowned sailors.
OMEGA’s commitment to ocean conservation is also reflected in its innovation in diving technologies and watchmaking precision. The brand holds a Master Chronometer certification, representing the industry’s highest precision, magnetic resistance, and performance standard.
Beyond the oceans, OMEGA’s dedication to sustainability is holistic, encompassing a range of social causes and it hasn’t dropped the ball on its continuous commitment to quality and precision in watchmaking. Doing the right thing by the planet without the need to compromise on luxury, style, precision and innovation go hand in hand. They all work together.