What is the difference between the Breitling Superocean and the Omega Seamaster? This article explores what it all boils down to.
When it comes to the Breitling Superocean vs the Omega Seamaster, the two overlap in many ways. Despite this, both brands tend to occupy different categories in the watch sector.
While Breitling first put itself on the map with the iconic Chronomat and Navitimer aviation watches, Omega traveled to space.
The Omega Speedmaster, AKA Speedy, was the first watch to venture to the moon. Its instantly recognizable chronograph design is still a much-loved collectible today. Both brands, however, produce a superior and comprehensive range of dive watches, too.
Breitling’s water-resistant sports watches go by the name of the Superocean and Superocean Heritage II. Omega’s range of dive watches, however, is vast. All dive watches by Omega come under the category of the Seamaster. The collection is home to the Planet Ocean, Aqua Terra, and the Diver 300M, to name just a few.
Table of Contents
Which Is More Popular, the Seamaster or the Superocean?
Both the Breitling Superocean and Omega Seamaster watches are popular. They both share some impressive features and high-end specs. Recognition-wise, Omega has the winning edge. Perhaps this is due to the coverage it received when its Speedmaster landed on the moon.
Likewise, the brand has long been recognized as a favorite of 007 agent, James Bond. Regardless, global recognition shouldn’t impact the decision-making process, especially when it comes to functionality.
(Below: Omega Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond anniversary watch)
Since the arrival of CEO Georges Kern, Breitling watches have been categorized into three main groups. These comprise watches for the land, the sea, and the sky.
This simpler approach to watchmaking has refined the brand somewhat. In doing so, Breitling has been able to extend its global reach drastically.
Comparing the Breitling Superocean vs the Omega Seamaster
On paper, the Superocean watch by Breitling and the Seamaster watch from Omega seem very similar. Breitling’s dive watches can be separated into the contemporary Superocean and the vintage-inspired Superocean Heritage II.
On the other hand, dive watches by Omega make up a huge series with a colossal number of different models.
Before we share their differences, let’s take a brief look at both brands’ histories.
A Brief History of Breitling Dive Watches
Breitling was founded in 1884 but wouldn’t come of age until its true calling after WWI. The rise of the war led to a huge expansion in the demand for pilot watches. In 1915, its first-ever Chronograph with an independent pusher was released.
It proved a breakthrough in stopwatch timings and an accurate way of keeping flight time.
Over the years, Breitling has enjoyed partnerships with the US Army and the British RAF. American Lt Commander Scott Carpenter also orbited the earth with the Navitimer on his wrist.
In 1957, Breitling’s first dive watch arrived. It sat alongside the already-released Omega Seamaster, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, and the Rolex Submariner. It featured a 200-meter water resistance and promised a clean, practical design.
It had no markings on the bezel, however. Later, Breitling Superocean watches came fitted with helium escape valves and thicker cases. Some of its hardiest watches are today equipped with 2000-meter water resistance.
(Below: Breitling Superocean ref 807 1957)
In 2000, Breitling released the Superocean Heritage watch inspired by a vintage model. It was superseded by a 2017 model – the Superocean Heritage II – offering features even closer to the brand’s original models. These dive watches featured a super hard ceramic bezel and a TUDOR Movement. That range now consists of some 30 different models.
A Brief History of Omega Dive watches
In 1948, Omega celebrated its 100th anniversary and the release of the first Seamaster watch. Aside from its rubber gaskets, the model was a simple three-handed dress watch.
The true dive watches of the Seamaster range didn’t come along until the release of the Omega Seamaster 300. Despite its name, it was only water resistant to 200 meters.
At the time, Omega was competing for the title of the world’s most iconic dive watch alongside the Rolex Submariner. The studious, unfussy dial design of the Omega Seamaster 300 became very useful.
The dial boasts a coin-edge black rotating bezel framed by luminous arrow-tipped hands. That said, the bezel was thinner, and it read from 50 to 10 minutes in a clockwise direction. This was the opposite way of how we see them today.
(Below: 1948 Omega Seamaster watch)
Since Rolex owned the patent for the screw-down crown, Omega looked at an alternative design. Omega developed the Naiad concept, featuring the crown mounted on a pressure-sensitive spring. The deeper the watch ventured, the tighter the seal would become.
When the Seamaster 300M arrived in the mid-90s, it soon made its way onto the wrist of James Bond in “Goldeneye”. The brand has also enjoyed releasing several heritage pieces, just like Breitling. In 2014, the Seamaster 300 Master Co-Axial Chronometer watch proved the closest match to the original Seamaster design.
The Omega Seamaster vs the Breitling Superocean
Overall, both brands have experienced an impressive legacy in creating dive watches. They’ve also demonstrated growth in their respective areas of expertise. Both Omega and Breitling’s retro dive watches are continuing to prove best-selling designs today. How do both brands compare in terms of features, though?
The best way to compare both brands is to sit two of the most popular watches side-by-side. Our comparison, therefore, is based on the Breitling Superocean Heritage II and the Omega Seamaster 300.
Options
Generally speaking, if you like the simple three-handed dive watch, both the Superocean and Seamaster hit the mark. The Omega Seamaster 300 is home to a series of straightforward models.
That said, it offers a huge scope of choice in materials. The entry point model of this collection is the classic stainless steel version. You can also enjoy the watch on a titanium case and bracelet for a lightweight finish on the wrist.
For a more luxurious take, you can enjoy the watch in a two-tone design. These stainless steel and 18k gold models bridge the gap between casual and dressy. Then there are the solid 18k gold or platinum options.
These occupy the high-end sector and feature the brand’s patented Sedna gold variants. Each model measures 41mm.
In terms of the Breitling Superocean, there are several time and date models available. These belong to the brand’s Capsule collection.
They’re not entirely limited editions but are manufactured in limited production runs. The real limited edition models belong to the Boutique collection.
Some of these are the retro surfer-style models of the Superocean Heritage II range, evoking a true vintage vibe. The rest of the collection comprises chronographs and time-only models. They all carry nods to the DNA of the original ref 807.
(Below: modern Breitling Superocean Heritage watch)
On the whole, Breitling offers more versatility in terms of functions with its range of chronographs and limited editions. Material options are, however, more high-end in the Seamaster 300, with a wider array available.
Aesthetics
If you’re looking for a dive watch that remains closest to its vintage original, Omega fulfills this promise best. The Seamaster 300 is close in design to the brand’s former CK2913, thanks to its distinctive handset and hour markers.
(Below: Modern Omega Seamaster 300M watch)
The Breitling Superocean Heritage II watches go a little further with their modernization. They are larger than their ancestors and feature longer, thicker lugs. I can say that the dial is a close match to the original, albeit with a modern date window.
The feature was moved to the 6 o’clock location, differing from the original Superocean watches.
Generally, Breitling Superocean watches are more pared down compared to the Seamaster 300. The latter exercises plenty of vivid color towards the top end of the collection. Superocean watches, however, are commonly seen in deep blue hues and classic blacks, offering a more restrained look.
Movements
Since welcoming CEO George Daniels on board, Omega has made great strides in movement manufacturing. The last couple of decades have seen the brand evolve in mass-producing silicone hairsprings, for example. This accomplishment has contributed to the certification of its Master Co-Axial movements.
Impervious to the effects of magnetic damage, Omega is leading the way with its movement production. In doing so, it is eradicating a major cause of movement inaccuracy. The Calibre 8400 is a great example of such. Not only magnetic-resistant to 15,000 gauss, its automatic winding system also pivots on ball bearings.
Breitling’s Superocean Heritage watches were initially powered by ETA movements before TUDOR movements. The Calibre B20 then took over with a slightly modified arrangement of the original TUDOR MT5612 engine.
Although described as an in-house movement, it is not produced in Breitling’s facilities.
Impressive nevertheless, the movement offers a 70-hour power reserve, albeit without the silicone hairspring. Other models from the collection are powered by a true in-house movement. The B01 Calibre, for example, supplies power to the chronograph watches for this series.
The Takeaway
When it comes to the Breitling Superocean vs the Omega Seamaster, both have pros and cons. Omega’s history with dive watches is longer than Breitling’s, with its flagship collection being the Planet Ocean.
The watches from this collection are a lot more expensive than Breitling’s Superocean range, however. For some perspective, even the most expensive Superocean watch is cheaper than Omega’s least expensive Planet Ocean.
Breitling Superocean watches offer plenty of value for money. Yet, Planet Ocean watches are certainly more luxurious. Some of the most high-end timepieces will probably never see a splash of water.
The point of the Planet Ocean, however, is not its underwater capabilities alone. It achieves the dive watch aesthetic that fans adore.
The choice remains as to whether or not you want to spend more on the Seamaster and its refined aesthetics. If you don’t, the Breitling Superocean will certainly promise plenty of bang for your buck.
Want to know when it’s time for the latest watch drops and seasonal trends? Subscribe to our newsletter and receive expert advice, curated watch collections, and exclusive discounts on watches specifically designed for you. Join our community of wristwatch enthusiasts and never compromise on style or comfort again!
Had a Breitling Superocean chronometer for 16 years, never took it off, slept in it and it never missed a second. Never cleaned or serviced and sold for £1800. Absolute classic.