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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Automatic divers watch

OMEGA Seamaster PloProf 600m automatic divers watch

Partially verified

This stainless steel OMEGA Seamaster PloProf 600m is an automatic wristwatch released by the manufacturer in response to the growing demand for deep-sea diving equipment during the late 1960s. Produced in 1972, this timepiece, carrying reference 166.077, is powered by the calibre 1002 movement. The watch features a distinctive case measuring 55 x 44mm, incorporating a red button on the upper side which operates the locking mechanism for the bi-directional rotating bezel. The watch is fitted with a Bakelite bezel and a 'Shark Mesh' stainless steel bracelet. The dial is blue with a luminous outer minute track, luminous hour markers, and a date window located at the three o'clock position. The timepiece is designed to be water-resistant to a depth of over 600 meters and includes a screw-down crown with a locking nut to ensure underwater functionality.

Front view of the OMEGA Seamaster PloProf 600m, showing the bezel, dial, red release button and mesh bracelet
Front view of the OMEGA Seamaster PloProf 600m, showing the bezel, dial, red release button and mesh bracelet — Somlo Antiques. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
somlo.com
Category
Wristwatch · Automatic divers watch
Maker / attribution
OMEGA
Reference
166.077
Catalogue / lot identifier
03282
Source-reported date
1972
Source-reported place
Not established

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Bezel Design

The Seamaster PloProf 600m features a unique industrial case design constructed from stainless steel. It measures 55 x 44mm and is built to withstand pressures exceeding depths of 600 meters. A notable functional feature of the case is the inclusion of a red button positioned at the top right, which acts as the release mechanism for the locking, bi-directional rotating bezel. This design allows for the calculation of elapsed time, specifically for underwater air management.

The timepiece is further equipped with a screw-down crown that utilizes a locking nut to maintain its water resistance. The bezel insert is composed of Bakelite and features a graduated scale for diving calculations. The watch is presented on a 'Shark Mesh' stainless steel bracelet, which is historically associated with this specific model line.

Evidence for this section
  • “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.”

Dial and Movement

The hour and second hands are of the sword style and are also luminous. A date aperture is positioned at the three o'clock mark.

Internally, the watch is powered by the OMEGA calibre 1002 automatic movement. This movement, designed during the period following the model's debut at the 1969 Basel Show, provides the power for the watch's standard timekeeping and date functions.

Evidence for this section
  • “Dial: Blue dial with luminous outer minute track featuring sword hour and second hands.”
  • “Calibre: 1002”
  • “Movement: Automatic”

Historical Context and Nomenclature

The OMEGA Seamaster 600 was developed in response to the late 1960s requirement for specialized equipment for underwater exploration and industrial tasks, such as the maintenance of off-shore oil constructions. The model became available in 1971.

The name 'PloProf' is widely used by collectors, derived from the French term 'Plongeur Professionnel'. However, the source indicates that the term is considered a misnomer as the watch was not exclusively designed for professional divers. The name originated from an error found in a reference book but has since been adopted by the market and integrated into OMEGA's modern collections.

Evidence for this section
  • “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.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific production date within 1972 for this unit serial number?
  • Has the Bakelite bezel insert undergone any restoration or replacement?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for OMEGA Seamaster PloProf 600m automatic divers watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerOMEGA“Vendor: OMEGA”
ModelPloProf“Model: PloProf”
Reference166.077“Reference: 166.077”
Calibre1002“Calibre: 1002”
Date of Manufacture1972“Made: 1972”
Case Dimensions55 x 44mm“Case dimensions: 55 x 44mm”
Water ResistanceOver 600m“The watch was proof to over 600m”

Visible details

  • Red release button for the rotating bezel
  • Blue dial with luminous markers
  • Shark Mesh bracelet
  • Date window at 3 o'clock position

Research qualifications

  • The exact professional application of the watch is noted as a misnomer due to historical reference book errors.
  • The source provides no specific details regarding the current working order or service history of the movement.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی غواصی اتوماتیک OMEGA Seamaster PloProf 600m رفرنس 166.077 ساخت ۱۹۷۲

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 1e3b7a6dbb

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.