The One That Got Away: PloProf 1200

[rw16610]

Ok, I technically never had it but wanted to share a little story and some images from Monochrome.

All of you here have known me for many years now, and dive watches are something I'm passionate about. Even before learning to swim as an adult back in 2009 (didn't enjoy lessons as a kid) I was amazed by the concept of a watch being able to endure a deep sea environment.

Somewhere along that journey, I visited the AD my first Omega Seamaster (2220.80) was purchased from and they had the PloProf 1200 Meter piece in Steel! Of course I asked to try it on and was blown away by the fact it fit me so well. The Neoprene box is also cool and silly me, I missed out on an eBay auction a few years back and don't recall seeing one in good shape like that get listed since.

A tough choice was made when I bought the Planet Ocean Chronograph, for me having my favourite complication in an extreme diver with the lovely movement display filled a void on my collection. There wasn't much certainty regarding my future with a Royal Oak Offshore or something else with a display case back. Fast forward just a few years and so many brands are doing it now.

Shortly after the aforementioned purchase, I still had the burning desire to own a PloProf, the ultimate novelty watch for me. With the Deep Sea Sea-Dweller at prices I couldn't consider paying, it seemed like the ultimate option.

Well, an AD I've visited since the early 2000s sells pre-owned watches, and the owner was selling his own PloProf! At the time it was $10,000 CAD plus 13% harmonized sales tax. Not sure if they would've discounted at all, but this was A LOT of money for me right after buying a Planet Ocean Chronograph.

Long story short, I didn't go ahead with it, but followed them on eBay, Chrono24, and anywhere else pre-owned watches get sold online. As the prices shot up a bit, I can't see myself being able to justifying paying that for a novelty watch that isn't very versatile. However, I can always appreciate it for the history, engineering achievements, and brand heritage imbedded in the design elements. A legendary watch, indeed!


















A glimpse at its heritage







monochrome-watches.com/legendary-omega-seamaster-ploprof-kraken-diving-watches/

[Baco Noir]

It’s a really iconic watch for sure. Anyone in the know knows what it is and those who don’t with still be intrigued by the unique appearance. It’s the exact opposite of under the radar. I hope you find a way to add one to your collection one day soon.

[rw16610]

Baco Noir Thank you! I always dream big and enjoy having various goals in life, even in my hobbies. Although I like to consider my collection complete for the most part, it never is. This and or a 16600 some day will be amazing. Just the though of having either, or both to admire, wear, and enjoy is such a happy thought.

[Baco Noir]

Jun 14, 2023 23:10:37 GMT -6 rw16610 said:

Baco Noir Thank you! I always dream big and enjoy having various goals in life, even in my hobbies. Although I like to consider my collection complete for the most part, it never is. This and or a 16600 some day will be amazing. Just the though of having either, or both to admire, wear, and enjoy is such a happy thought.

I completely get that. I do feel my collection is well balanced by brand, case material, and complications. The only thing I feel I am lacking is a precious metal piece. My AD has told me he hasn’t seen a WG Sub in 3 years and is not sure when he’ll get one. He has offered to move me up to the top of the list for any SS sports model I want and I’ve given him one option in SS and an alternate WG model, but I’m not holding my breath. I keep looking at other gold options out there, but none of them excite me like the WG Sub does. Who knows, if the grey market keeps dropping, maybe I’ll have to source one from one of the trusted sellers.

[rw16610]

Baco Noir This is certainly one of the few moments where I'm hoping things continue to fall. How perfect would that be for the true enthusiasts? My fingers are crossed that you obtain the white gold watch. If the model or brand wasn't important you can also find some cool vintage and neo-vintage gold watches, mostly yellow gold seemingly. Imagine a vintage chronograph (surfboard) in 18k gold on a nice strap? Doesn't come close to the Submariner, and I'm not even sure who made those in good if anyone, but just thinking out loud.

One thing I've learned the hard way in this hobby is to never try substitute for what you truly want. At the end of the day the desire will remain, then you'll be stuck with a watch that doesn't quite do it for you. The Submariner is such a special piece really.

[aerome]

If you want one, you'll have it. I always liked the looks of that watch and almost bought one when I bought the Deep Sea. After not liking the DS's look on my wrist, I dumped it. Started looking at these again and realized there would never be a place I would wear it so it would be a safe queen. Although I do still want one, the practicality of spending that money or even working a swap, doesn't appeal to me any longer.

[rw16610]

aerome I like that! And it's certainly true. After quickly browsing Chrono24, it'll be a tough choice for me to eventually make compared to something like a 16600 Sea-Dweller. Each is unique in its own way, but the versatility aspect (or lack thereof) is food for thought.