Stainless steel OMEGA Seamaster PloProf 600m divers watch. Made 1972

Information

• Brand: OMEGA 
• Made: 1972
• Model: Seamaster 600M
• Reference: 166.077
• Calibre: 1002
• Movement: Automatic
• Material: Stainless steel
• Features/complications: Bakelite bezel 
• Dial: Blue dial with luminous outer minute track featuring sword hour and second hands.
• Case dimensions: 55 x 44mm
• Bracelet/strap: Stainless steel bracelet
• Accessories: -
• SKU: 03183

Essay

During the late 1960s, there was a surge in the need for underwater exploration, maintenance of off-shore oil constructions, and various activities like scuba diving, water sports, and military and naval operations beneath the waves. This led to a growing demand for watches designed specifically for underwater use.

These 'Dive Watches' would have to be able to withstand pressure far in excess of the operational depth of the divers wearing them in order to be proof against impacts. Also, as a tool watch the rotating bezel would need to be used for calculations such as elapsed time for air.

In response to this demand, Omega developed the iconic Seamaster 600, which made its debut at the 1969 Basel Show and became available in 1971. Although the PloProf is a misnomer as it was not strictly made purely for professional divers (PloProf - Plongeur Professionnel ) due to an error made in a reference book the name has been adopted by OMEGA collectors and the line continues in the current collection.

The watch was proof to over 600m and features a locking, bi-directional rotating bezel, released by the red button on the case. It also features the 'Shark Mesh'  bracelet and a screw down crown with locking nut.