Omega Seamaster Professional 300M 2561.80.00

The Omega Seamaster Professional 300M reference 2561.80.00, a mid-size (36.25mm) quartz dive watch, was introduced in 1993 and remained in production through the early to mid-2000s, likely ceasing production between 2006 and 2009. This model gained significant cultural cachet due to its aesthetic similarity to the Seamaster worn by James Bond in the 1990s, starting with GoldenEye in 1995. Adding to its unique profile, this specific reference is notably the watch of choice for Prince William, The Prince of Wales, reportedly a cherished gift from his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. The 2561.80.00 is significant for offering the iconic Seamaster Professional 300M design in a more universally wearable size, powered by a precise Omega quartz caliber, making it a popular and enduring model.  

Specifications

Key Details and Variations

Variations:

• Lume Material:
  • Tritium: Early models (approx. 1993-1997/1998) used Tritium for luminescence, often indicated by “T SWISS MADE T” on the dial. Tritium develops a patina over time, often turning yellowish.  
  • Super-LumiNova: Later models transitioned to Super-LumiNova, typically marked “SWISS MADE” on the dial. This material maintains its color and offers longer-lasting glow.  
• Dial Markings: The primary dial marking difference relates to the lume material used (“T SWISS MADE T” for Tritium, “SWISS MADE” for Super-LumiNova).  

Correct Dial:

• The dial is a distinctive deep blue with a laser-engraved wave pattern.  
• Hour markers are a combination of luminous dots and batons.  
• A key identifier for the mid-size 2561.80.00 is the slim baton marker at 3 o’clock next to the date window, distinct from the wider marker on the full-size quartz model (2541.80.00).  
• The date window is located at 3 o’clock.  
• Standard text includes “OMEGA,” “Seamaster,” “PROFESSIONAL,” and “300m/1000ft”.  

Correct Hands:

• The hour and minute hands are skeletonized sword-style, filled with luminous material.  
• The seconds hand often features a red tip and a luminous “lollipop” counterweight.  

Correct Case:

• Stainless steel, 36.25mm diameter, with Omega’s signature “lyre” or twisted lugs.  
• Helium Escape Valve (HEV) at 10 o’clock.  
• Screw-down crown with crown guards.  
• Solid screw-down case back with engraved Hippocampus (seahorse) emblem and wave pattern.  

Correct Crystal:

• Domed, anti-reflective, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.  

Correct Crown:

• Screw-down type, signed with the Omega logo.  

Additional Details

Movement (Omega Caliber 1538): The Omega Caliber 1538 is a high-precision quartz movement based on the ETA 255.461 ebauche. It features a rhodium-plated finish, 6 jewels, and a battery life of approximately 42 months (some sources state 27/36 months). Key functions include an end-of-life (EOL) indicator (seconds hand jumps in 4-5 second intervals) and a jump hour setting for easy time zone adjustment without stopping the watch. The Caliber 1538 is known for its accuracy and reliability.  

Bracelet and Clasp: The 2561.80.00 is fitted with a distinctive stainless steel bracelet, often referred to as the “Bond” bracelet due to its 9-row link design with alternating brushed and polished finishes. For the 18mm lug width of the mid-size model, bracelet systems like the 1612/932 (clasp/link system) or the 1502/824 (bracelet/end link codes) are commonly cited. The clasp is a push-button deployant or butterfly type, featuring an integrated diver’s extension and a security fold-over latch.  

Market Value & Collectibility: The Omega Seamaster Professional 300M 2561.80.00 is a popular collector’s item, valued for its iconic design, robust build, and notable associations with James Bond and Prince William. Prices typically range from $1,800 to over $2,500, depending on condition, originality, and whether it includes the original box and papers. Early Tritium dial models with patina are often sought after by vintage enthusiasts. Its mid-size and quartz movement make it a more accessible entry into the “Bond Seamaster” family compared to its larger automatic counterparts.