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The Ploprof is in my opinion, and I do not say this lightly, THE best diver on the market. Not only is the only Omega I would ever buy but it's also the only diver I would ever buy. I have no idea how people don't consider it before blowing their money on objectively inferior watches. And I totally agree, the best thing about the Ploprof is the integration of colors and the diving functions. Absolutely genius! "It's too big for me" Stop, the thing is literally smaller across the wrist than a Daytona.
Mate, i took my words. This is the best diver watch ever made, it is small across the wrist, it is balanced, superb clasp and bracelet, fully illuminate sapphire bezel. I still can't understand how the people buy Submariner or Black bay or Diver 300 when they can buy the best of the best of less money.
Agreed. Try to put on a seadweller over a dry suit, good luck with that. The ploprof is the ultimate diver. The brazelet fits over a dry suitz. The bezel protects the crystal and its A CHUNK of steel. Its super cool
Got a chance to try one on at an Omega store this past weekend. Still has good heft to it, even in titanium. Loved the way it looked and sat on my wrist. I've wanted one for years and still plan on getting one soon.
I've been drooling over the piece too... even though it would never work on my right wrist (comfortably) BUT I'd totally rock it. Something about it's development, history, background is just so appealing to me. When the dust settles, it's very unique. Hell, I hope you manage to pick one up, man! crazy cool watch that'll always turn heads ;)
Only the 1st generation (date on 3 o’clock) was a mono block. The future generations were with case back access, and I think because of that they added the HE valve... I have never considered in my dreams to buy this watch, but once while I came to drop my Speedmaster for a check up in the Omega store, the technician has the new generation model on his strap and it’s look amazing, I asked him if I can try it on and I was just blown away by how light and comfortable it was to wear it. I almost regret of owning a great PlanetOcean but it’s nice to have a future dream.
Thank you for the comment about the case. It's a shame that they couldn't keep that original DNA with the newer models (dropping everything into the watch from the front) And your wearing experience sounds fantastic! I'm dying to give one a try, even though I wear watches on my right wrist, something about it, the history, backstory, just makes it so cool as this "prototype / development" watch. Having it in Titanium would also be a treat ;)
IDGuy There is something very unique of stumbling on something you thought you won’t like but the real life viewing change your all concept of esthetic completely... and I am a Professional photographer who do it for a living... you should do an episode of you going to a watch dealer and experience on LIVE the moment
I own a titanium PloProf with an orange ceramic bezel and I do not dive. I have always thought this watch was gorgeous and one of those watches I always had to have. It is an unapologetic design that either appeals to you or it doesn't. I pray it never changes.
And I feel the same about it too, man... it just feels so bizarre but also unique as another one of these "prototype / developmental" divers. Hope to get some hands-on time with one soon actually. I'd love to talk more about it as a daily wearer ;) Thank you for the comment as always, brother!
As a steel Ploprof owner, i appreciate your presentation.Its my favourite piece in my collection.I wonder why this watch , wasn't selected as a " Bond " watch, but i like it wasnt, as Bond, is a fictional character, and the Ploprof, is completely grounded in the harsh reality of a maritime tool watch. Great video , thank you !
My pleasure! It would've made for a great Bond watch (especially in a film like Thunderball instead of the Breitling Top Time - even though the PloProf wasn't around yet) And hey! This watch would've been incredible as a part of the new franchise! Mesh bracelet, great presence, hardcore...Even Omega doesn't think it's pretty enough ;) Still , never say never again...
@@erth4896 And I'd like to add, it was pure coincidence! Just saw his upload after finishing mine hahaha! Loved it. AND now I need to field test a Ploprof for the channel...
The PloProf is truly "industrial" in its design. It is right at home in its environment with the other pieces of industrial equipment required for deep dives. Over a thick dry suit it probably does not look that big. I am sure the divers were just as concerned about the lume. After all, what good is a watch 600 feet below the surface if you cannot see the hands and dial? If the original PloProp was paired to a vehicle, it would be the Humvee while latest version is more like a Hummer.
Like your Hummer / Humvee analogy ;) The modern piece is strange in a way... because it's trying to be a piece of jewellery as well as being a professional instrument. Does it manage to be both? Hell, now I need one in hand to do a follow-up review... Thank you for these comments as always Karl! "Industrial" should've been used in the video more and more
Tool design is only ugly when people misunderstand its purpose and want to parade in malls with an industrial device on the wrist as a fashion statement.
This needs to become the top comment. Excellently said. This watch in particular was never made to look "attractive" or a piece of jewellery. The whole concept has been misunderstood with the luxury watch craziness we've been seeing. Function and fashion don't need to meet
I don’t know what design ratios are at play but this watch has always worked aesthetically and technically for me - with the bracelet and maybe better no date or original date. A dive to 650 feet would take approximately eight days of decompression so it is quicker to get back from the moon than some dives ...and more people have been to the moon than some of the deepest oceans. This is an impressive, bold and innovative design. A great watch to showcase and your video certainly does it justice - many thanks.
It is an amazing machine. The more I make videos around these pieces (Omega especially) the more I fall (deeper) for the brand. I'd happily own one of these pieces because the X-factor "prototype" nature around it. And we both love that history. I know you're more of a Speedy fanatic, but their dive watches just always keep me coming back. Thanks a million for the comment, man! And crazy to imagine what kind of a toll that depth would do to the human body...
Nicely done, IDGuy. Since you covered the Ploprof, I’d love to you do a video on the Seiko Tuna. It’s another deep sea monoblock diver that achieves such a good seal, it doesn’t need an HE release valve. A video on the Tuna would complete your 70s deep diver trilogy.
You know what, last week I put near the top of my list of videos to make "The Greatest Seiko Divers" that recording will need to happen in the next week or two ;) Don't worry, I'll cover them all! Thanks as always for the comment Chi-Town!
I think its ugly because its misunderstood and cool but the one with the duller edge is kinda ugly IMO. The sharper angular edge of the case changes a lot.
@@tippykaffu4047 I really should've mentioned in the video that the case could be "modernised" with deeper, more organic champfers & bevels. Thanks for the comment, brother!
@@matthewrikihana6818 On one side, it has lots of overdone features (which could be seen as a good thing) BUT then it also screams "Look at me, I'm a dive watch" ;) The 70's...a bizarre time
For once a watch that has put form and functionality over fashion. A true icon in the dive community. I feel very strongly that if not for the Ploprof Rolex would not have pushed the boundaries of depth as they have today. I am a Rolex fan boy, but as a diver I would choose the Omega Ploprof because of its functionality. Nothing to distract you from what it is, a true professional divers tool. No more, no less.
Best video so far about Ploprof. Thanks for sharing. Some things that I like to say, this watch has been so forgotten, that many details remain in mystery, and apparently that's because many of the designers and people involved in the project are no longer working. About the design, one important thing to remember (other viewers can correct me if I´m wrong) is that all diver watches of that time (except for the Blancpain) did not have unidirectional bezels, because Blancpain retain the patent until 1980. So they came up with this idea of the safe-button. The other remarkable thing is that there was a Titanium version of the PloProf in the early days. The catalogue image that you show at 5:50, is a Finland catalogue (I saw that in the net before), and remark in red is where it states that PloProf had a Titanium version. So, the thing is, as you said the whole concept became more and more relevant today. I hope Omega keep making them, because technically are such an important part of watches history (the only thing can be criticized about the relaunch is that the case is no longer a single piece of metal, but I guess is a compromise with costs...). Cheers!
Bought the ploprof back in 2011. Walked past the Geneva omega boutique shop and thought what the fck is that😳. Did my research and fell in love with everything about it. Heavy as hell and don't even think about wearing it with a cuff. Just a badass watch for those who don't run with the crowd. Loved the comment 'that's not a dive watch' 🤣⌚👌
I have worn a Submariner since 1982, it served me in combat in Iraq and Mogadishu, even saved my life in a training mission so I have great affection for Rolex, And I absolutely love the PloProf, I simply can't understand if someone is a fan of sport watches, especially diver's why you wouldn't like it. If you want beautiful buy a Patek, Vacheron or a Lange. I know its just a matter of time before I buy one.
The plopropf is one of my FAVORITE watches. I have a 6.5" wrist but I would absolutely wear this beast daily if I had it. Great work @IDGuy. And shoutout to @Eric Bell.
My wrist is about 6.75 and I know the feeling. Also rocking it on the right wrist would be interesting ;) Thank you as always for the comments, brother! Our banter during the liveshows is always a treat.
Great video! But one thing I don't understand: Helium bypasses the gaskets, and gets into the watch through the crown and/or caseback. But it doesn't enter the Ploprof. Why? The Ploprof has a crown, and although it's a monobloc - how is the front of the watch (crystal etc.) attatched if not screwed in? If it's not screwed in, why not also use the same technology for the caseback?
Very good point, by the looks of things I feel like most of the gas entry happens through the caseback (might need to ask a few gents in this hobby who dive) But having overbuilt gaskets and seals maybe make the biggest difference? That's how all crystals are secured to the cases I believe. Think I'll do research and one day make a video about "how does helium enter a watch case" Thank you for the question, very thought provoking!
IDG Thanks for another great video. I love dive watches though I don’t dive. I love the purposefulness of the watch with its larger elements use of colors and because it exudes toughness and capability. At the risk of sounding childish, I believe that subconsciously it makes me feel like I can take it anywhere no matter what I’m doing, and somehow that translates to me being ready if not cable to go anywhere and do anything. I have many brands of diver, including Rolex DSSD and SD, Omega PO and SM, as well as several other lesser brands with tough well built personas as capable if not as refined as the luxury brands. And then there’s the Ploprof, which pushes all those buttons and more. I’ve liked it from afar for 10+ years. Why? The look, the utilitarian chunkiness, the colors and yes, even the seeming imbalanced balance of the asymmetrical ‘thing’! With your design description you’ve now afforded me the ability to put it better to words, and yet I somehow feel I still can’t put together and adequately explain why I like the watch so much. I would like to add that it was only about 3 months ago that I actually tried one on in an Omega boutique. It was the titanium version with the grey dial and shark bracelet. I’m not sure this is my favorite combination, but it was then I realized that I didn’t like the watch...I confirmed my suspicion that I actually loved it. In addition to its good looks, it was amazingly comfortable on my 7.5” wrist. The reason that I don’t own one (yet) is because: a) I fear I might feel like an impostor wearing one. I’ve never gone diving or even tried on a dive suit and it is so so purposeful in its demeanor. b) I don’t believe I’d give it the wrist time it deserves. Being a collector I’m trying to be more practical as I believe in acquiring watches that I’d actually wear more than once or twice a year. I then have to ask myself which other dive watch might it replace when I felt like wearing one? So in summary I’ll attempt to answer your question and say this: To me it’s not ugly and never was. I think it’s ugly only to someone who doesn’t connect with the watches reason for being. Someone who is caught up in a type of perfection that they believe demands symmetry and a sort of strict conformance and can’t see its form as a product of its function. To me I love the idea that it looks like it might be some metering tool strapped to a pipe in the basement.
What an amazing comment! Thank you for putting the time into your reply like this Meyer! "Metering tool strapped to a pipe" that made me chuckle. And don't think that you'll be not giving the watch the proper treatment because you've never been diving. If anything, pick it up for its significance, history, development (that it had the Submariner / Sea-Dweller on the ropes back in the day) These pieces and their aesthetics are made to be enjoyed, maybe not so much for their capabilities today (since we see them largely as jewellery) but still! - I'd pick one up in a heartbeat if a) I could afford it b) because it's so damn peculiar and a "prototype" diver in a way. c) Because it's an Omega and I love the brand. A comment mentioned that next to the RM's and other crazy pieces we see today, the PloProf is an Adonis hahaha! Ah, our community is great. Thanks again Meyer
I was lucky enough to find a steel cal 8500 model on mesh bracelet recently. Currently being serviced by Omega. Longing for it to be back! Mesh bracelet links were VERY difficult to source, however.
Congratulations! It's the model that I'm looking for too! Would love to give one a proper hands-on review in the future. And thank you for the info about the bracelet links! Let me know when you finally get it back and what the wearing experience has been like!
Beautiful video, thank you. The Planet Ocean may even be a better example of a descendant of the legacy Seamaster professional line than the Seamaster 300M featured here in my opinion, with its bezel design, arrow hands and orange cues that reminds the old Seamaster 300 and the Ploprof to some extent. Omega kept a tool look to the PO while incorporating ceramic which gives it a luxury watch look.
I've always loved the watch but to be honest always assumed it was huge. but it's lug to lug fits in my wheel house. I have no problem with how thick it is titanium is a great cure for that. But I'm currently stalking the Fifty Fathoms or the Bathyscaphe. I know you don't care for the latter:)))) But I might go try this one on.
The lug-to-lug is quite a marvel actually. Tim's reviews of this piece are solid and you get a good understanding about how it sits on the wrist (case height is a bit steep though) - AND speaking of fifty fathoms... I'm right there with you. Something about that piece is calling to me... preferably the 40mm limited models. The Bathyscaphe, eh, they could tighten them up ;) Thank you as always for the comment Rob!
@@ID-Guy Thanks! How do you feel about a video about about mid to late 20th century design being a peak for technology to that point. I don't feel today is the same for tech that is around now - ie the Eames Lounger, Rolex Sub, Habitat shop, Mcdonalds fast food compared to Ikea Billy bookcase, Apple Watch, Apple Store or Five Guys? (spoiler, Five Guys is aces and spoils the rule)
As a former commercial saturation diver (who didn't take my own watches to work), I believe this is the best diver that can be used at depths for work (if you want to risk your own money for the people who pay you well for manual deep work).
I saw the the ProPlof in an advert whilst I was at school and thought if I became a commercial diver, I could wear one. I later saw the first Seiko Tuna and that was equally inspiring, when they went to quartz, I believe dive watches advanced to another level of technology. I now own a SBBN015 Tuna Marinemaster, more than enough technology for my aquatic activities with an easily replaced battery. Personally, I think the ProPlof could have been improved if it had gone quartz, function being more important then gears and springs.
Thank you for this Tom. I would love to see these modern ones get a bit more "organic" with deeper champfers and fillets. The Mono case must've been amazing for wearability too...
IDGuy i had a omega planet ocean 42mm. Very unwearable it wobbles on the wrist. I wonder if rolex sub is also as undtaedy. The ploprof is very comfy. The way the cut the edges saved also wait. I think the new ss ploprof is more heavy. Anyway loved the monocase and the spaceship wearedness
Imho it's the ultimate dive watch. Looks like a piece of industrial design, an instrument & professional tool rather than a marketing strategy. Good episode, thanks 👍🏻👍🏻
So why not skip the He release valve and make the crystal a larger diameter than the dial cut-out so the metal holds the crystal down and therefore prevents blow out? Correct me if I'm wron. I know next to nothing about deep saturation dividing.
Looking back, there's always more to discuss in these videos... like I should've added more about how they could modernise the case with more aggressive champfers and fillets (to make it look that little bit more organic) but hey! I'm really glad you enjoyed it Enrique and thank you for the comment!
I'd take it over a Sea Dweller any day. The ultimate tool watch. How about covering the Seiko 6159? So we'll engineered that it doesn't need a He escape valve because it keeps the gas out.
Hey IDGuy! I sorta dig any and all timepieces that have some sort of function over form element to their design, an asymmetry that has purpose. Whether it be Vacheron's American 1921 or Tudors BB P01, they hit me in the gut and make my desire to possess them feel different, more visceral even than my desire to own my true grail pieces; a Rolex Explorer II 1655 or a Speedmaster Mk11 or an El Primero with tri-colour sub dials. There is a deep beauty to the aforementioned 3 pieces so that desire is akin to love. However with the obvious asymmetric or borderline ugly pieces it is pure animalistic lust! Anyway, now that's out of the way - the dial on this piece ɪs exquisite, and barring the orange minute hand, it bears great resemblance to a watch I adore, the Certina DS PH200 which is, IMO, the most overlooked vintage styled diver on the market today. A piece with a dial that is itself heavily inspired by the mil-spec Seamasters of the late '60'S! I would very much like to see you do a piece on such under represented watches. Cheers mate. Anthony.
My pleasure! I'd love to get the piece in hand to do a hands-on review in the future. It's a beast that deserves a lot more love ;) Thank you for the comment, brother!
I absolutely LOVE this watch! Just look at it. It is truly the Millennium Falcon of wristwatches. If only I could get away with wearing one. For now I’ll have to make do with it’s ‘Baby’ brother, the Seamaster 120m Baby Ploprof. At least I get to wear that unique shark mesh bracelet and look at those gorgeous ‘Plongeur’ hands. Yet another brilliant video here my friend. ✊
This watch is more relevant from the technical point of view. It provides since its beginning a lot of knowledge to the familiar divers. Therefore you need to have those kind of watches for the real purpose. It’s like a formula 1 car on the street. You will never catch something like this watch on the street but maybe the Sports Coupe version which would be the 300m or Planet Ocean.
And I love this strange genre of the "prototype / developmental" watch. It's like driving a 6-wheeled Tyrell or Brabham BT46 ;) Great comment Harun and thank you!
Over the sleeve of his shirt right? I was going to give him an honourable mention, but didn't want to bring fashion into it ;) The story goes that he was allergic to the nickel in the case (or one of the components of the compound) - maybe this is just a pop culture thing (because he always wore watches over sleeves)
It's a classic, stands out in a collection and starts conversations from the wrist. It has my respect. However, I'm not a fan. Unless you actually used it, the stories it tells, belong to others. Aesthetically it just doesn't inspire love from me either. I'm happy to be a minority opinion on this.
After doing the research (highly recommend ploprof.com/1200m.html) the watch has really adjusted my thinking. Such a cool piece of machinery. And thank you as always Neel! I'm glad you enjoyed the talk
I’m sold. Am going to treat myself to a 50th Birthday present - was thinking of a Rolex but I stumbled across the Ploprof by accident. Started to research this timepiece. Hoping to buy one duty-free - Schipol, CDG or Dubai? Great video, sir - my compliments!
This badboy is one of the best Diver watches in the World a true Classic! I own a Panerai Pam 422 47mm and Rolex Submariner this Watch is on my list to buy
Thing is, the 1200's alloy seems to be inferior to the 600's, as there are numerous accounts of rust. Especially on the bezel. I wear my 600 daily and must say that over the 14 years I have had it, the only downside is its movement. It isn't the sturdiest. Full service really is necessary every three years if not earlier.
She's a beast of the deep. I'd love to do a design exercise to "modernise" the PloProf a bit with more aggressive champfers and fillets one day. But thank you, brother! Hope you've managed to clear the basement of the boxes ;)
Over a jacket while snowboarding / skiing... Surfing / Bodyboarding / sailing. It's one way to look like a certified badass in all of those settings! Thanks for the comment Kacper
My pleasure! It was such a blast looking into the history of the piece (and the video could've been another 10 minutes longer after reading the comments) Thanks for the comment, brother
18K JLC Reverso, Sub, Dweller, Speedmaster, Seamaster 300, and Ploprof 600m. Received the most compliments on the Ploprof. Come to think of it....it the only watch that received any compliments. Spot on as a conversation piece. Their "brilliant use of color" is about 40yrs too late. The orange pip, hands, and pusher's sub-conscience understanding wasnt on the original design. Its only on the modern interpretation which realistically is obsolete with the use of dive computers. Might have been logical back in days when people actually used it for diving.
Hideously beautiful, yeah I love it. It was designed for a purpose, shame COMEX didn't wait, then 3 years beyond commitment wouldn't serve good business purpose. It's so wrong, it's right ... It's defies any good reason to own it for me, but I'm going to buy one. Why? It will interest me every day I wear it.
I think "masculine" is the wrong adjective for the ProProf. I would call it purely "functional". It's obviously been designed to "work", as opposed to look good.
Nicely said. I should've included the line in there somewhere about it being more "engineered" and less "designed" - something tells me that the case was made purely to house the components. And aesthetics, beautification doesn't need to factor in at all ;) Thanks for the comment Bani!
I love using the word "professional" around it. Someone mentioned that it could visually look like a gauge for a pipe in the basement (and nobody would be the wiser seeing it) Hahaha! Thanks for the comment Felipe
Great vid. , got me thinking about buying a Muhle Glashutte S.A.R. . Any chance of your thoughts on another of what most call , ' an UGLY duckling ' .?
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The Ploprof is in my opinion, and I do not say this lightly, THE best diver on the market. Not only is the only Omega I would ever buy but it's also the only diver I would ever buy.
I have no idea how people don't consider it before blowing their money on objectively inferior watches. And I totally agree, the best thing about the Ploprof is the integration of colors and the diving functions. Absolutely genius!
"It's too big for me"
Stop, the thing is literally smaller across the wrist than a Daytona.
Agree. It is the ultimate diver.
Mate, i took my words. This is the best diver watch ever made, it is small across the wrist, it is balanced, superb clasp and bracelet, fully illuminate sapphire bezel. I still can't understand how the people buy Submariner or Black bay or Diver 300 when they can buy the best of the best of less money.
Agreed. Try to put on a seadweller over a dry suit, good luck with that. The ploprof is the ultimate diver. The brazelet fits over a dry suitz. The bezel protects the crystal and its A CHUNK of steel. Its super cool
Correct.
Another great video IDGuy. When you look up the definition of a tool watch, a picture of the Omega Ploprof is what you should be seeing.
Got a chance to try one on at an Omega store this past weekend. Still has good heft to it, even in titanium. Loved the way it looked and sat on my wrist. I've wanted one for years and still plan on getting one soon.
I've been drooling over the piece too... even though it would never work on my right wrist (comfortably) BUT I'd totally rock it. Something about it's development, history, background is just so appealing to me. When the dust settles, it's very unique. Hell, I hope you manage to pick one up, man! crazy cool watch that'll always turn heads ;)
Only the 1st generation (date on 3 o’clock) was a mono block. The future generations were with case back access, and I think because of that they added the HE valve...
I have never considered in my dreams to buy this watch, but once while I came to drop my Speedmaster for a check up in the Omega store, the technician has the new generation model on his strap and it’s look amazing, I asked him if I can try it on and I was just blown away by how light and comfortable it was to wear it. I almost regret of owning a great PlanetOcean but it’s nice to have a future dream.
Thank you for the comment about the case. It's a shame that they couldn't keep that original DNA with the newer models (dropping everything into the watch from the front) And your wearing experience sounds fantastic! I'm dying to give one a try, even though I wear watches on my right wrist, something about it, the history, backstory, just makes it so cool as this "prototype / development" watch. Having it in Titanium would also be a treat ;)
IDGuy There is something very unique of stumbling on something you thought you won’t like but the real life viewing change your all concept of esthetic completely... and I am a Professional photographer who do it for a living... you should do an episode of you going to a watch dealer and experience on LIVE the moment
Seeing you compare other divers to the PloProf, I’m going to paraphrase Crocodile Dundee.
“Hah hah hah, that’s not a diver...THAT’S a diver!”
Love it! Let's be real, it would work so well in a social situation hahaha!
I love this reference. Exactly! :)
I own a titanium PloProf with an orange ceramic bezel and I do not dive. I have always thought this watch was gorgeous and one of those watches I always had to have. It is an unapologetic design that either appeals to you or it doesn't. I pray it never changes.
And I feel the same about it too, man... it just feels so bizarre but also unique as another one of these "prototype / developmental" divers. Hope to get some hands-on time with one soon actually. I'd love to talk more about it as a daily wearer ;) Thank you for the comment as always, brother!
@@ID-Guy I will send a photo in hopefully in time for the weekend.
As a steel Ploprof owner, i appreciate your presentation.Its my favourite piece in my collection.I wonder why this watch , wasn't selected as a " Bond " watch, but i like it wasnt, as Bond, is a fictional character, and the Ploprof, is completely grounded in the harsh reality of a maritime tool watch. Great video , thank you !
My pleasure! It would've made for a great Bond watch (especially in a film like Thunderball instead of the Breitling Top Time - even though the PloProf wasn't around yet) And hey! This watch would've been incredible as a part of the new franchise! Mesh bracelet, great presence, hardcore...Even Omega doesn't think it's pretty enough ;) Still , never say never again...
My SS ploprof is also my favorite in the collection. It’s nice to see two well done reviews on this piece within a week (IDGuy & You’re Terrific).
@@erth4896 And I'd like to add, it was pure coincidence! Just saw his upload after finishing mine hahaha! Loved it. AND now I need to field test a Ploprof for the channel...
The PloProf is truly "industrial" in its design. It is right at home in its environment with the other pieces of industrial equipment required for deep dives. Over a thick dry suit it probably does not look that big. I am sure the divers were just as concerned about the lume. After all, what good is a watch 600 feet below the surface if you cannot see the hands and dial? If the original PloProp was paired to a vehicle, it would be the Humvee while latest version is more like a Hummer.
Like your Hummer / Humvee analogy ;) The modern piece is strange in a way... because it's trying to be a piece of jewellery as well as being a professional instrument. Does it manage to be both? Hell, now I need one in hand to do a follow-up review... Thank you for these comments as always Karl! "Industrial" should've been used in the video more and more
Tool design is only ugly when people misunderstand its purpose and want to parade in malls with an industrial device on the wrist as a fashion statement.
This needs to become the top comment. Excellently said. This watch in particular was never made to look "attractive" or a piece of jewellery. The whole concept has been misunderstood with the luxury watch craziness we've been seeing. Function and fashion don't need to meet
I couldn't agree more. A tool fitted for its purpose.
I don’t know what design ratios are at play but this watch has always worked aesthetically and technically for me - with the bracelet and maybe better no date or original date. A dive to 650 feet would take approximately eight days of decompression so it is quicker to get back from the moon than some dives ...and more people have been to the moon than some of the deepest oceans. This is an impressive, bold and innovative design. A great watch to showcase and your video certainly does it justice - many thanks.
It is an amazing machine. The more I make videos around these pieces (Omega especially) the more I fall (deeper) for the brand. I'd happily own one of these pieces because the X-factor "prototype" nature around it. And we both love that history. I know you're more of a Speedy fanatic, but their dive watches just always keep me coming back. Thanks a million for the comment, man! And crazy to imagine what kind of a toll that depth would do to the human body...
Nicely done, IDGuy. Since you covered the Ploprof, I’d love to you do a video on the Seiko Tuna. It’s another deep sea monoblock diver that achieves such a good seal, it doesn’t need an HE release valve. A video on the Tuna would complete your 70s deep diver trilogy.
You know what, last week I put near the top of my list of videos to make "The Greatest Seiko Divers" that recording will need to happen in the next week or two ;) Don't worry, I'll cover them all! Thanks as always for the comment Chi-Town!
Is the Omega Ploprof Misunderstood because it’s Ugly or Ugly because it’s Misunderstood? ;)
I think its ugly because its misunderstood and cool but the one with the duller edge is kinda ugly IMO. The sharper angular edge of the case changes a lot.
@@tippykaffu4047 I really should've mentioned in the video that the case could be "modernised" with deeper, more organic champfers & bevels. Thanks for the comment, brother!
Now I've had it explained to me, it's still ugly. It's like too much caramel syrup in the ice cream, it's just too much dive watch.
@@matthewrikihana6818 On one side, it has lots of overdone features (which could be seen as a good thing) BUT then it also screams "Look at me, I'm a dive watch" ;) The 70's...a bizarre time
It is super cool, it is the ultimate diver. I love it!!!.
For once a watch that has put form and functionality over fashion. A true icon in the dive community. I feel very strongly that if not for the Ploprof Rolex would not have pushed the boundaries of depth as they have today. I am a Rolex fan boy, but as a diver I would choose the Omega Ploprof because of its functionality. Nothing to distract you from what it is, a true professional divers tool. No more, no less.
Best video so far about Ploprof. Thanks for sharing. Some things that I like to say, this watch has been so forgotten, that many details remain in mystery, and apparently that's because many of the designers and people involved in the project are no longer working. About the design, one important thing to remember (other viewers can correct me if I´m wrong) is that all diver watches of that time (except for the Blancpain) did not have unidirectional bezels, because Blancpain retain the patent until 1980. So they came up with this idea of the safe-button. The other remarkable thing is that there was a Titanium version of the PloProf in the early days. The catalogue image that you show at 5:50, is a Finland catalogue (I saw that in the net before), and remark in red is where it states that PloProf had a Titanium version. So, the thing is, as you said the whole concept became more and more relevant today. I hope Omega keep making them, because technically are such an important part of watches history (the only thing can be criticized about the relaunch is that the case is no longer a single piece of metal, but I guess is a compromise with costs...). Cheers!
Bought the ploprof back in 2011.
Walked past the Geneva omega boutique shop and thought what the fck is that😳. Did my research and fell in love with everything about it. Heavy as hell and don't even think about wearing it with a cuff. Just a badass watch for those who don't run with the crowd.
Loved the comment 'that's not a dive watch' 🤣⌚👌
I have worn a Submariner since 1982, it served me in combat in Iraq and Mogadishu, even saved my life in a training mission so I have great affection for Rolex, And I absolutely love the PloProf, I simply can't understand if someone is a fan of sport watches, especially diver's why you wouldn't like it. If you want beautiful buy a Patek, Vacheron or a Lange. I know its just a matter of time before I buy one.
The plopropf is one of my FAVORITE watches. I have a 6.5" wrist but I would absolutely wear this beast daily if I had it. Great work @IDGuy. And shoutout to @Eric Bell.
My wrist is about 6.75 and I know the feeling. Also rocking it on the right wrist would be interesting ;) Thank you as always for the comments, brother! Our banter during the liveshows is always a treat.
Bleach ;)
Great video! But one thing I don't understand: Helium bypasses the gaskets, and gets into the watch through the crown and/or caseback. But it doesn't enter the Ploprof. Why? The Ploprof has a crown, and although it's a monobloc - how is the front of the watch (crystal etc.) attatched if not screwed in? If it's not screwed in, why not also use the same technology for the caseback?
Very good point, by the looks of things I feel like most of the gas entry happens through the caseback (might need to ask a few gents in this hobby who dive) But having overbuilt gaskets and seals maybe make the biggest difference? That's how all crystals are secured to the cases I believe. Think I'll do research and one day make a video about "how does helium enter a watch case" Thank you for the question, very thought provoking!
IDG Thanks for another great video. I love dive watches though I don’t dive. I love the purposefulness of the watch with its larger elements use of colors and because it exudes toughness and capability. At the risk of sounding childish, I believe that subconsciously it makes me feel like I can take it anywhere no matter what I’m doing, and somehow that translates to me being ready if not cable to go anywhere and do anything. I have many brands of diver, including Rolex DSSD and SD, Omega PO and SM, as well as several other lesser brands with tough well built personas as capable if not as refined as the luxury brands.
And then there’s the Ploprof, which pushes all those buttons and more.
I’ve liked it from afar for 10+ years. Why? The look, the utilitarian chunkiness, the colors and yes, even the seeming imbalanced balance of the asymmetrical ‘thing’! With your design description you’ve now afforded me the ability to put it better to words, and yet I somehow feel I still can’t put together and adequately explain why I like the watch so much. I would like to add that it was only about 3 months ago that I actually tried one on in an Omega boutique. It was the titanium version with the grey dial and shark bracelet. I’m not sure this is my favorite combination, but it was then I realized that I didn’t like the watch...I confirmed my suspicion that I actually loved it. In addition to its good looks, it was amazingly comfortable on my 7.5” wrist. The reason that I don’t own one (yet) is because: a) I fear I might feel like an impostor wearing one. I’ve never gone diving or even tried on a dive suit and it is so so purposeful in its demeanor. b) I don’t believe I’d give it the wrist time it deserves. Being a collector I’m trying to be more practical as I believe in acquiring watches that I’d actually wear more than once or twice a year. I then have to ask myself which other dive watch might it replace when I felt like wearing one?
So in summary I’ll attempt to answer your question and say this: To me it’s not ugly and never was. I think it’s ugly only to someone who doesn’t connect with the watches reason for being. Someone who is caught up in a type of perfection that they believe demands symmetry and a sort of strict conformance and can’t see its form as a product of its function. To me I love the idea that it looks like it might be some metering tool strapped to a pipe in the basement.
What an amazing comment! Thank you for putting the time into your reply like this Meyer! "Metering tool strapped to a pipe" that made me chuckle. And don't think that you'll be not giving the watch the proper treatment because you've never been diving. If anything, pick it up for its significance, history, development (that it had the Submariner / Sea-Dweller on the ropes back in the day) These pieces and their aesthetics are made to be enjoyed, maybe not so much for their capabilities today (since we see them largely as jewellery) but still! - I'd pick one up in a heartbeat if a) I could afford it b) because it's so damn peculiar and a "prototype" diver in a way. c) Because it's an Omega and I love the brand. A comment mentioned that next to the RM's and other crazy pieces we see today, the PloProf is an Adonis hahaha! Ah, our community is great. Thanks again Meyer
I was lucky enough to find a steel cal 8500 model on mesh bracelet recently. Currently being serviced by Omega. Longing for it to be back!
Mesh bracelet links were VERY difficult to source, however.
Congratulations! It's the model that I'm looking for too! Would love to give one a proper hands-on review in the future. And thank you for the info about the bracelet links! Let me know when you finally get it back and what the wearing experience has been like!
Superb video. I’ve been curious about this watch for years, but this has really moved it from the ‘curiosity’ to ‘must buy’ category 👌🏼
one of, if not the most unique and amazing watches ever.
It would be an honor to add one to my collection one day.
Simply amazing piece!
Beautiful video, thank you. The Planet Ocean may even be a better example of a descendant of the legacy Seamaster professional line than the Seamaster 300M featured here in my opinion, with its bezel design, arrow hands and orange cues that reminds the old Seamaster 300 and the Ploprof to some extent. Omega kept a tool look to the PO while incorporating ceramic which gives it a luxury watch look.
One of my favorite watches by Omega. I’d love one.
Like the Milgauss it’s underrated and unwanted. Stellar video and great presentation.
I've always loved the watch but to be honest always assumed it was huge. but it's lug to lug fits in my wheel house. I have no problem with how thick it is titanium is a great cure for that. But I'm currently stalking the Fifty Fathoms or the Bathyscaphe. I know you don't care for the latter:)))) But I might go try this one on.
The lug-to-lug is quite a marvel actually. Tim's reviews of this piece are solid and you get a good understanding about how it sits on the wrist (case height is a bit steep though) - AND speaking of fifty fathoms... I'm right there with you. Something about that piece is calling to me... preferably the 40mm limited models. The Bathyscaphe, eh, they could tighten them up ;) Thank you as always for the comment Rob!
Great vid! It is amazing, it's the Land Rover Defender of dive watches, function before all else results in a form like no other.
The Land Rover Defender. Damn good comment, Stu. Thank you!
@@ID-Guy Thanks! How do you feel about a video about about mid to late 20th century design being a peak for technology to that point. I don't feel today is the same for tech that is around now - ie the Eames Lounger, Rolex Sub, Habitat shop, Mcdonalds fast food compared to Ikea Billy bookcase, Apple Watch, Apple Store or Five Guys? (spoiler, Five Guys is aces and spoils the rule)
Millenary falcon on the wrist 😉.
More like the Toyota Land Cruiser, wouldn't want to rely on a Land Rover to get me home safe...
As a former commercial saturation diver (who didn't take my own watches to work), I believe this is the best diver that can be used at depths for work (if you want to risk your own money for the people who pay you well for manual deep work).
I saw the the ProPlof in an advert whilst I was at school and thought if I became a commercial diver, I could wear one.
I later saw the first Seiko Tuna and that was equally inspiring, when they went to quartz, I believe dive watches advanced to another level of technology.
I now own a SBBN015 Tuna Marinemaster, more than enough technology for my aquatic activities with an easily replaced battery.
Personally, I think the ProPlof could have been improved if it had gone quartz, function being more important then gears and springs.
I had the 1970 one. It is very comfortable and flat on the wrist. The old one has more organic lines
Thank you for this Tom. I would love to see these modern ones get a bit more "organic" with deeper champfers and fillets. The Mono case must've been amazing for wearability too...
IDGuy i had a omega planet ocean 42mm. Very unwearable it wobbles on the wrist. I wonder if rolex sub is also as undtaedy. The ploprof is very comfy. The way the cut the edges saved also wait. I think the new ss ploprof is more heavy. Anyway loved the monocase and the spaceship wearedness
Imho it's the ultimate dive watch. Looks like a piece of industrial design, an instrument & professional tool rather than a marketing strategy. Good episode, thanks 👍🏻👍🏻
So why not skip the He release valve and make the crystal a larger diameter than the dial cut-out so the metal holds the crystal down and therefore prevents blow out? Correct me if I'm wron. I know next to nothing about deep saturation dividing.
The best dive watch I have ever owned 👌👌👌👌👌👌
thanks for explaining new things and matters about industrial design and functionality.
Looking back, there's always more to discuss in these videos... like I should've added more about how they could modernise the case with more aggressive champfers and fillets (to make it look that little bit more organic) but hey! I'm really glad you enjoyed it Enrique and thank you for the comment!
Is not ugly. I wear mine as a daily wear. Very smart. I love it.
I'd take it over a Sea Dweller any day. The ultimate tool watch.
How about covering the Seiko 6159? So we'll engineered that it doesn't need a He escape valve because it keeps the gas out.
@11:38 did you mis-speak about the "orange seconds hand" ?
I concur.
I would be interested to know your thoughts on bracelet designs and their relation to the watches they are fitted to.
Check out the Crepas Megamatic. It's quite similar but more refined.
Was it discontinued ?
Very interesting video...really enjoyed it, thanks!
Thanks a lot Stuart! I've wanted to prep this for a long time (and it was great getting back into the writeup format)
Best diving watch ever made, no argue about that. Ugly? I don’t think so.
Hey IDGuy!
I sorta dig any and all timepieces that have some sort of function over form element to their design, an asymmetry that has purpose.
Whether it be Vacheron's American 1921 or Tudors BB P01, they hit me in the gut and make my desire to possess them feel different, more visceral even than my desire to own my true grail pieces; a Rolex Explorer II 1655 or a Speedmaster Mk11 or an El Primero with tri-colour sub dials.
There is a deep beauty to the aforementioned 3 pieces so that desire is akin to love. However with the obvious asymmetric or borderline ugly pieces it is pure animalistic lust!
Anyway, now that's out of the way - the dial on this piece ɪs exquisite, and barring the orange minute hand, it bears great resemblance to a watch I adore, the Certina DS PH200 which is, IMO, the most overlooked vintage styled diver on the market today. A piece with a dial that is itself heavily inspired by the mil-spec Seamasters of the late '60'S!
I would very much like to see you do a piece on such under represented watches.
Cheers mate.
Anthony.
Awesome video !! Absolutely spot on 👌👌👌
Great video and history of the awesome Omega PloProf!!
My pleasure! I'd love to get the piece in hand to do a hands-on review in the future. It's a beast that deserves a lot more love ;) Thank you for the comment, brother!
It’s not ugly... its just too big (for me)
And I wish that the crown was on the right hand side (as a LHD option) haha!
That's why you would take the baby Proplof.
Don Kremer I’ve looked at that one so many times. It doesn’t have quite the same character... but close. It’s such a cool watch.
I absolutely LOVE this watch!
Just look at it. It is truly the Millennium Falcon of wristwatches. If only I could get away with wearing one. For now I’ll have to make do with it’s ‘Baby’ brother, the Seamaster 120m Baby Ploprof. At least I get to wear that unique shark mesh bracelet and look at those gorgeous ‘Plongeur’ hands.
Yet another brilliant video here my friend. ✊
This watch is more relevant from the technical point of view. It provides since its beginning a lot of knowledge to the familiar divers. Therefore you need to have those kind of watches for the real purpose. It’s like a formula 1 car on the street. You will never catch something like this watch on the street but maybe the Sports Coupe version which would be the 300m or Planet Ocean.
And I love this strange genre of the "prototype / developmental" watch. It's like driving a 6-wheeled Tyrell or Brabham BT46 ;) Great comment Harun and thank you!
Gianni Agneli wore a Ploprof, therefore the Ploprof must be a cool Watch.
Over the sleeve of his shirt right? I was going to give him an honourable mention, but didn't want to bring fashion into it ;) The story goes that he was allergic to the nickel in the case (or one of the components of the compound) - maybe this is just a pop culture thing (because he always wore watches over sleeves)
At first I hated it. Then I looked at it again and again and again.
This is an amazing watch 👌
Now I love it because it is different
Absolutely totally agree with everything you said!! The best explanation of this model , well said 👌👌👌👌
It's a classic, stands out in a collection and starts conversations from the wrist. It has my respect. However, I'm not a fan. Unless you actually used it, the stories it tells, belong to others. Aesthetically it just doesn't inspire love from me either. I'm happy to be a minority opinion on this.
Awesome Video...Thank you.......As for the Watch.....I absolutely adore it, function over form describes it perfectly, and I need one......NOW ;)
I think its absolutely beautiful!
What a great video! And the star of the show is a watch I never thought I'd grow to like!
After doing the research (highly recommend ploprof.com/1200m.html) the watch has really adjusted my thinking. Such a cool piece of machinery. And thank you as always Neel! I'm glad you enjoyed the talk
Correct Link: ploprof.com/PloProf.html (just check out the website, it's wonderful)
@@ID-Guy Thanks IDGuy, will check the link out!!
I’m sold. Am going to treat myself to a 50th Birthday present - was thinking of a Rolex but I stumbled across the Ploprof by accident.
Started to research this timepiece. Hoping to buy one duty-free - Schipol, CDG or Dubai?
Great video, sir - my compliments!
This badboy is one of the best Diver watches in the World a true Classic! I own a Panerai Pam 422 47mm and Rolex Submariner this Watch is on my list to buy
Bleibt jetzt nur noch die Frage, ob man mit dieser Uhr auch OHNE Sauerstoffgerät 1200 M. tief tauchen kann?
Thing is, the 1200's alloy seems to be inferior to the 600's, as there are numerous accounts of rust. Especially on the bezel.
I wear my 600 daily and must say that over the 14 years I have had it, the only downside is its movement. It isn't the sturdiest. Full service really is necessary every three years if not earlier.
If Brutalism Architecture was a watch this would be it. Great Video.
Brutalism in the purest sense ;) (also, the Oris 65 hasn't left my wrist. What an amazing machine! I can't get over the aesthetics and fit)
IDGuy The thin profile makes it super wearable. I am considering to get the Original Bracelet, but it’s expensive.
A monolithic tool watch which, although once serving a vital purpose, is now obsolete from a purely practical standpoint. So, obviously, I want one.
Hahahaha! Love this! I thought your last sentence was going to be completely different after that buildup ;)
Great video man! Learned a thing or two!
She's a beast of the deep. I'd love to do a design exercise to "modernise" the PloProf a bit with more aggressive champfers and fillets one day. But thank you, brother! Hope you've managed to clear the basement of the boxes ;)
I'd wear this watch outside of my jacket when sailing.
Over a jacket while snowboarding / skiing... Surfing / Bodyboarding / sailing. It's one way to look like a certified badass in all of those settings! Thanks for the comment Kacper
I love this watch.
It's one helluva machine and thank you for the comment Jesse!
please do a video on dornbluth&sohn watches!
Great analysis.
Ugly?!!! Magnificent. I love this watch.
Thank you for your insight
My pleasure! It was such a blast looking into the history of the piece (and the video could've been another 10 minutes longer after reading the comments) Thanks for the comment, brother
I think it is cool, like the 47 mm Submersible and the Big Pilot....
18K JLC Reverso, Sub, Dweller, Speedmaster, Seamaster 300, and Ploprof 600m. Received the most compliments on the Ploprof. Come to think of it....it the only watch that received any compliments. Spot on as a conversation piece. Their "brilliant use of color" is about 40yrs too late. The orange pip, hands, and pusher's sub-conscience understanding wasnt on the original design. Its only on the modern interpretation which realistically is obsolete with the use of dive computers. Might have been logical back in days when people actually used it for diving.
Have one. Love it.
The second hand is not orange, mate.
I'd rather wear the Ploprof than any Rolex. Always loved that funky diver...
speedmaster the ones most fought after are the ones with snoopy on them....those are the one that actually went into space
Hideously beautiful, yeah I love it. It was designed for a purpose, shame COMEX didn't wait, then 3 years beyond commitment wouldn't serve good business purpose. It's so wrong, it's right ... It's defies any good reason to own it for me, but I'm going to buy one. Why? It will interest me every day I wear it.
I think "masculine" is the wrong adjective for the ProProf. I would call it purely "functional". It's obviously been designed to "work", as opposed to look good.
Nicely said. I should've included the line in there somewhere about it being more "engineered" and less "designed" - something tells me that the case was made purely to house the components. And aesthetics, beautification doesn't need to factor in at all ;) Thanks for the comment Bani!
Another great video 👌 I like the watch 👍true tool watch !
1:23 ... “leviathan” ... ID Guy: 1, Tim Mosso: 0
Let's all agree that Tim needs to up his vocab game? ;)
Just kidding around. I love Tim Mosso! I think you, Tim, and Adrian (of Bark and Jack) are amazing. Thanks for the world class content!
IDGuy Tim is a lexicon of terms but you nailed this video dead center.
Hmm, it is not ugly or over engineered but the question not asked/answered is why it has a date function?
Tbh I think this is the best omega watch ever made.
I have it and i love it.
The second hand isn’t orange in any of the watches in the video.
I love it and want One.
It’s got an appeal like the Seiko Tuna.
I'm probs in the minority but I think it looks ace!
You are not in the minority. It is one of the few watches that once you see you will never forget.
it's not ugly. It's gorgeous
It's The Humvee of watches.😊
Homage...a historic deal.
Very bulky but somehow beautiful industrial tool watch!
I love using the word "professional" around it. Someone mentioned that it could visually look like a gauge for a pipe in the basement (and nobody would be the wiser seeing it) Hahaha! Thanks for the comment Felipe
A watch is a tool. From the most rugged dive watch to the most elegant dress watch.
Is it really misunderstood though? I feel like it's universally loved - it's just not a for-the-masses kind of a watch.
I like this watch
Great vid. , got me thinking about buying a Muhle Glashutte S.A.R. .
Any chance of your thoughts on another of what most call ,
' an UGLY duckling ' .?
It´s a classic, Yes
I love it!
Love it
The Adonis of prototype divers ;) Thanks for this Mohammed!
Why never celebrated its anniversary ? 🤔
Did you make this video as a response to @YoureTerrific 😂
Funny, I just got the video recommended to me as I uploaded this today... And I just saw it... Gotta say, I want one now. This hobby is a sickness.
IDGuy You’re telling me! Every other week I have a new “Must have” watch added to my wish list 😫
Woo!
Gotta get some PloProf love in our lives!