Egg Freckles

When you think of a Bond Watch, what comes to mind? Style, luxury, sophistication? Perhaps the actor who played James Bond in your favorite 007 movie, or maybe the over-the-top gadgetry that made the Bond Watch a trademark of the 007 films from the late 70's and early 80's?¹ No matter your initial reaction, or the concealed gadget inside, we can all attest to the coolness of the 007 timepiece. A symbol for the man every boy wants to grow up to be, and the confidence every grown man wishes he could achieve.

As an avid Bond fan I have collected all of the movies,² read all of the books, and played most of the video games.³ Not one for props, memorabilia, or firearms, I thought my Bond collection was complete. It wasn't until I became jealous of my friend's Omega Seamaster, that I realized owning an authentic Bond Watch could be within my future.

The first step in buying a Bond Watch is figuring out which watch to buy. In the movies Bond wore everything from a Rolex Submariner, to a digital Seiko. Of course for me growing up in the James Bond meant Pierce Brosnan, and his ocean blue Omega Seamaster. What can I say I am a child of the 90's.

The Omega Seamaster 2531.80 Chronometer is the watch Pierce Brosnam wore in all of his Bond movies.⁴ It played such an important role in GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, and Die Another Day that it has become known as the definitive "James Bond Watch." Handheld lasers, and remote explosive detonators aside, I wanted this watch because of its recognizable face and sophisticated style. It is by far the nicest thing I own.

What I like most about my Seamaster is its color. Depending on the light it can either appear to be bright blue or deep black. The wave pattern on the face distributes light in mysterious ways. The skeleton hands provide a sophistication that is unique to this model of watch.

If you have never worn a Seamaster than you are missing out. There is something about the way the two-tone stainless steel bracelet drapes across your wrist. Nothing is as comfortable. Unlike leather it is impervious to moisture, and unlike the cheap links of other straps, it never pinches the skin.

A brand new Seamaster costs several thousand dollars, but due to a vibrant second hand market I was able to pick mine up at less than half the asking price.⁵ When it comes to the decision between Quartz and Automatic, I would spend the couple extra hundred dollars for the Chronometer. I didn't think it would make a difference, but I have grown to appreciate the steady ticking of the mechanical movement. It will never need a replacement battery.

I own very little in the line of luxury, but I bought my Bond Watch because it is a constant reminder of confidence.⁶ James Bond might be a fictional character, but his legendary confidence has captivated audiences for over 50 years. That is a quality money can't buy, and an heirloom I hope to pass on to future generations.