As the official timekeeper of the Olympics, Omega released the Olympic Seamaster Planet Ocean 222.32.46.50.01.001 in 2008 to honor the Beijing Olympics.
At the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, Omega delivered a record 420 tons of timekeeping equipment, operated by 450 trained professionals and supported by more than 1,000 local volunteers.
It marked Omega’s 23rd appearance as Official Olympic Timekeeper. The Games also witnessed one of the most memorable performances in modern sports history, as Omega ambassador Michael Phelps won eight gold medals in swimming, breaking a record that had stood since 1972.
With roots in Seamaster heritage, it offers impressive water resistance, a helium escape valve, and exceptional legibility. The watch is both sporty and refined, qualities that continue to resonate as the Winter Olympics once again take center stage. Omega’s Olympic legacy continues today. In our article, on Omega’s 2026 Olympic watches, we explore how the brand is preparing for the next chapter of Olympic precision timing.
As an Authorized Omega Retailer, Precision Watches has long celebrated Omega’s Olympic legacy and its role in precision sports timing. Precision Watches recently welcomed an Omega Planet Ocean Chronograph 222.32.46.50.01.001 to our collection, a pre-owned piece priced at $5,995. Learn what we discovered when we experienced this watch firsthand in our Lower Gwynedd showroom.
Omega Olympic Seamaster Review
Appearance
Though released in 2008, this watch has a contemporary look that holds up well by modern standards. Its matte black dial is reflection-resistant for high legibility. It features silver chaptering for each subregister, producing a polished and highly stylized look.
The vintage Arabic numerals pay homage to the timepieces used at the 1932 Olympics. Broad arrow and minute hands are a callback to 1950s Omega watches. A discreet, monotone date window sits between the 4 and 5, so you can’t really see it unless you’re looking for it.
While the watch is mostly black, it features accents of color that give it a sporty look, including a red-tipped second hand, a red Olympic-style ring counterweight, and the red Omega logo at 12 o’clock.
The Fit
With a 45.5mm diameter, there is no doubt that this is a bigger watch, with its size accentuated by chunky helium escape valves, crown guards, and chronograph pushers. Its thickness is 17.3, a bit thinner than the advertised 18mm, but it still won’t fit under any sort of cuff. However, the 51.3mm lug-to-lug measurement means that it can fit on a wrist as small as 15 cm.
Despite the size, the watch fits comfortably, feeling substantial rather than heavy, largely due to the lack of a full steel bracelet. The weight is fairly well-balanced, so it sits securely on the wrist.
The Strap
The strap is one of the watch’s standout features, and considering its exceptional design and functionality, that’s saying a lot. It has a bolstered appearance, molded in rather than cushioned, to create a substantial look. The black leather complements the white stitching and adds a sense of luxury to an otherwise sporty setting.
We also appreciate how the strap swells near the lugs, leaving almost no gaps, producing a uniform appearance. The finishing touch is the deploying clasp, which pops open only when you press the triggers for optimal security. It also features a minder list system that tucks excess length under the clasp, preventing the material from flapping.
Caseback and Movement
Turning the watch over, you’ll find a solid steel screw-down caseback with the Olympic logo and a declaration that Omega is the official timekeeper of the Olympics. It is mostly brushed, with polished accents, giving it a tool-like appearance. The backing protects the COSC-certified, highly precise Calibre 3313 movement and its automatic winding system, which provides a 52-hour power reserve.
Functionality
The watch is highly functional, with a quick date setting, hacking seconds, and a free sprung balance for shock resistance. With an incredible 600m water resistance and screw-out helium valve, this is a diver’s watch. The high lume makes it visible in murky settings.
It also offers other Olympic-friendly features, such as 0-60-minute countdowns that work with the chronograph, so you can time two events concurrently. The column-wheel vertical clutch supports smooth, precise start/stop functionality in the pushers. And with three subdials, a 30-minute chronograph recorder at 1 0’ clock, a 12-hour chronograph recorder at 6 o’clock, and a small seconds hand at 9 o’clock, you can time the Olympics yourself.
For collectors drawn to the brand’s chronograph heritage, we explore that legacy further in our Speedmaster Milano Cortina review, highlighting how Omega continues to refine its most iconic timing instrument.
Experience the Olympic Seamaster Planet Ocean 222.32.46.50.01.001 at Precision Watches
If the Omega Olympic Seamaster speaks to you, we invite you to experience it in person at our Lower Gwynedd showroom. Alongside this Olympic edition, we curate a refined selection of new releases and exceptional previously worn timepieces, each chosen for quality, condition, and long-term collectability.
Prefer to shop remotely? You can explore our online collection at your convenience.
And if you currently own an Omega you’re considering parting with, our team offers discreet evaluations and competitive offers for those looking to sell an Omega timepiece. We also assist with trades and Omega authorized service, supporting you at every stage of watch ownership. Contact our team to learn more.
FAQS
How accurate is the Calibre 3313?
The movement is COSC-certified for high accuracy. Real-world users report only 3-4 seconds of loss after over 2 months of wear, demonstrating remarkable precision for a chronograph watch.
What is the co-axial escapement, and why does it matter?
The co-axial escapement is Omega’s proprietary innovation. It reduces friction and wear on the movement compared to traditional lever escapements.
Who is the Olympic Seamaster Planet Ocean 222.32.46.50.01.001 best suited for?
The watch is suited to enthusiasts who prefer large, tool-style watches and appreciate Olympic history. It can also be a great watch for serious divers and collectors.
Is this a good everyday watch or more of a special occasion piece?
The watch is highly functional and has a chunky, tool-like look, making it more of an everyday watch. But because it is big and heavy, it may not be ideal for daily wear. However, as a luxury piece, it also sits well on special occasions.
Is the Olympic Seamaster Planet Ocean 222.32.46.50.01.001 collectible?
The watch could be a collectible item as it honors Omega’s Olympic timekeeper heritage, commemorates the Beijing Olympics, is limited in availability, and features unique specs, including 600m water resistance, a helium valve, and a chronograph. However, increased retail value is never guaranteed.
How does it compare to the Seamaster or Speedmaster?
The biggest difference between the Planet Ocean, the Seamaster, and the Speedmaster is the size. It is considerably taller and thicker than the other two models. It also has higher water resistance and a different movement and back story.
