The Perfect Pairing: Finding the Right Strap for the New Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean
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Time to read 7 min
Omega has done it again. Twenty years after the debut of the iconic Planet Ocean line, the brand has introduced the fourth generation, and it is a significant evolution. The new Seamaster Planet Ocean maintains its professional diving DNA but arrives with a sharp, angular case redesign, a major slimming down, and a cleaner overall aesthetic.
This redesign presents a fresh opportunity for watch enthusiasts: finding the perfect strap to complement its bold new architecture. After all, a new case calls for a new wardrobe.
Let’s dive into the details of the watch, paying special attention to the one key specification that matters most for strap pairing, and then look at the best options for each of the core colour variants.
Table of Contents
The New Planet Ocean: Thinner, Sharper, Cleaner A Crucial Detail for Strap Enthusiasts Strap Pairings for Each Variant 1. The Signature Orange Version 2. The Classic Blue Variant 3. The Stealth Black Variant Featured Pre-Owned Piece: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 39.5mm (Ref: 215.30.40.20.03.001) Conclusion
The New Planet Ocean: Thinner, Sharper, Cleaner
The fourth-generation Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean is a deliberate move towards a more refined, modern tool watch. While it returns to the highly wearable 42mm diameter of the original 2005 model, the biggest change is its proportion. The case height has been dramatically reduced from 16.1mm to just 13.79mm. This considerable reduction in bulk is achieved through a flatter sapphire crystal and a solid titanium caseback, replacing the previous display back.
Key Design Differences from Previous Models:
Case Architecture: Gone are the softer curves of previous Planet Oceans. The new case features sharper planes, more pronounced crown guards, and angular geometry, giving it a technical, architectural feel.
The Missing Valve: In a move that streamlines the design significantly, the traditional helium escape valve at 10 o’clock has been completely removed. This reflects Omega's confidence in the watch’s 600m water resistance, thanks to a new two-part construction featuring an inner titanium ring.
Dial Details: The matte black dial features redesigned Arabic numerals (at 12, 3, 6, and 9) that are now more open and squarer, mirroring the new case's sharp lines. The movement remains the superb Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8912, guaranteeing exceptional precision and magnetic resistance up to 15,000 gauss.
A Crucial Detail for Strap Enthusiasts
Now for the most important detail for anyone looking to change the look of their new Planet Ocean: the strap size.
The new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean has a 21mm lug width.
This 21mm lug width dictates the size of any replacement strap you will need. While less common than 20mm or 22mm, the perfect selection of 21mm straps can dramatically enhance the watch's tailored, integrated feel.
Strap Pairings for Each Variant
The new collection is centered around three primary colorways—Orange, Blue, and Black. Here are three recommended strap options for each variant, offering a mix of functionality, luxury, and tactical style.
1. The Signature Orange Version
The orange Planet Oceal model, with its matte orange numerals and matching ceramic bezel insert, is the most faithful to the Planet Ocean’s adventurous spirit.
Strap Type |
Why It Works |
Erika's Originals Black Ops MN Strap with Orange Centerline |
A true tool-watch classic. This Marine Nationale style textile strap is comfortable, highly secure, and the black base with the bright orange centerline perfectly picks up the watch’s signature colour accents. |
Crafter Blue UX07 Orange FKM Rubber Strap |
A high-performance, vibrant FKM rubber option. The material is marine-grade, highly resistant to UV and chemicals, and provides the ultimate sporty, waterproof pairing. |
RIOS1931 Louisiana Alligator Embossed Leather Strap in Orange |
For when the Planet Ocean needs to lean into the 'luxury tool' category. This high-quality embossed leather adds a rich texture and bold colour to instantly dress up the dive watch. |
2. The Classic Blue Variant
The Blue Planet Ocean offers a more traditional deep-sea aesthetic, featuring a rich blue ceramic bezel against the matte black dial.
Strap Type |
Why It Works |
| Artem Straps Hydroflex Navy Hybrid FKM Rubber Strap with White Stitching |
A perfect blend of style and substance. The sailcloth-like exterior gives a sophisticated, textured appearance, while the FKM rubber lining ensures it remains completely water and sweat-proof—an ideal luxury sports option. |
Erika's Originals Trident MN Strap in Two-Tone Blue |
The two-tone blue of this Marine Nationale style textile strap provides depth and variation, harmonising beautifully with the blue ceramic bezel while adding a comfortable, secure fit. |
RIOS1931 Dallas Alligator Embossed Leather Strap in Navy Blue |
A deep navy leather that gives the Planet Ocean a serious, executive feel. It’s perfect for bridging the gap between a rugged dive watch and business attire. |
3. The Stealth Black Variant
The Black Planet Ocean is the most restrained and tactical, allowing its sharp new case lines and high-contrast dial details to shine.
Strap Type |
Why It Works |
Hirsch Tiger Perforated Leather Performance Strap in Black |
An excellent option that manages to be both sporty and breathable. The perforated leather exterior is backed by a rubber lining, offering the look of leather with the performance of a high-tech rubber strap. |
Artem Straps Classic Black Sailcloth Strap with White Stitching |
The iconic sailcloth texture is rugged yet refined. It provides a crisp, tactical contrast against the black case, and the white stitching visually complements the white print on the dial. |
Erika's Originals Black Ops MN Strap with Turquoise Centerline |
(I know. Another Erikas Originals, but I couldn't help myself.) A subtle and brilliant nod to the watch's technical side. The black strap provides a stealthy base, and the turquoise centerline is specifically chosen to match the subtle two-tone Super-LumiNova X1 lume color (blue/green emission) of the hour markers and hands—a true enthusiast's choice. |
Featured Pre-Owned Piece: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 39.5mm (Ref: 215.30.40.20.03.001)
While the excitement for the new generation is palpable, we currently have a magnificent example of the previous-generation Seamaster Planet Ocean available—and it's a testament to Omega's enduring quality and design heritage.
The reference 215.30.40.20.03.001 is one of the most beloved modern Planet Ocean models, famed for its incredibly wearable 39.5mm case diameter. This makes it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the robust dive watch aesthetic but prefer a more compact fit on the wrist.
Key Features of this Model:
Wearability: At 39.5mm, this model strikes a perfect balance, offering the full 600m water resistance and professional features of the Planet Ocean line in a sleek, comfortable size.
Aesthetics: The deep blue ceramic dial and bezel deliver a classic oceanic look, providing exceptional legibility and resistance to scratching. The highly polished applied indices and hands catch the light beautifully.
Movement: This Planet Ocean is powered by the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8800. Being a Master Chronometer means it has passed the industry's most rigorous tests, offering superior anti-magnetism (up to 15,000 gauss) and phenomenal timekeeping accuracy.
Design Details: Unlike the newer generation, this model features the signature helium escape valve at 10 o’clock and a sapphire crystal caseback, allowing a view of the beautifully finished Calibre 8800.
This pre-owned 39.5mm blue Planet Ocean is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a robust, technically superior, and comfortably sized modern Omega diver.
Conclusion
The new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean marks a sharp evolution for the line, trading bulk for sleek refinement. By slimming down the case, sharpening the lines, and introducing subtle but significant design changes, Omega has ensured this collection is poised to attract a new generation of enthusiasts while honoring its deep-sea heritage.
The move to a 21mm lug width is a key detail that opens the door to high-quality, perfectly fitted strap choices. Whether you opt for the vibrant pop of an orange FKM rubber, the tactical elegance of black sailcloth, or the subtle enthusiast detail of a turquoise-accented Marine Nationale style strap, finding the right 21mm accessory ensures your new Planet Ocean not only performs flawlessly but looks incredible doing it. It’s all about tailoring the new architecture to your personal style.
The New Generation: The fourth-generation Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean maintains its 600m dive rating but features a significantly slimmer profile (down to 13.79mm) and a sharper, more angular case design compared to previous models.
Key Design Changes: Notable differences include a flatter sapphire crystal, a solid titanium caseback, and the removal of the helium escape valve, resulting in a cleaner silhouette.
Crucial Specification: The new models utilize a 21mm lug width, which is the required size for all replacement straps.
Featured Pre-Owned Piece: Highlighted the previous-generation 39.5mm Planet Ocean (Ref: 215.30.40.20.03.001) in blue, noted for its wearable size and Master Chronometer Calibre 8800.
The Author: Will Parker
Will Parker is the Head of Media at WatchObsession and has been with the company since 2020. As our dedicated photographer, videographer and content creator, he has changed more buckles, straps and clasps than we can count and his own personal watch collection grows every year, although his strap collection is growing faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest change in the new Planet Ocean design?
The most significant change is the reduction in case thickness. The new 42mm model is much slimmer at 13.79mm (down from 16.1mm), alongside a sharper case architecture and the removal of the helium escape valve for a cleaner look.
What is the lug width of the new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean?
The new 42mm Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean has a 21mm lug width. This is the exact strap size you need for a perfect fit.
What is the water resistance rating of the new Planet Oceans?
Despite the slimmer profile and the removal of the helium escape valve, the new Planet Ocean maintains its professional diving depth rating of 600 meters (2000 feet).
