Omega Seamaster 300M 41mm Ref 2265.80 1998 Watch

Q: What is the Omega Seamaster 300M Ref. 2265.80 (1998)?
A: It’s a vintage, Swiss‑made Seamaster Professional 300M in stainless steel with a 41mm case, blue dial and matching steel bracelet. This reference is powered by a reliable quartz movement, features a date at 3 o’clock, a unidirectional dive bezel, a screw‑down crown and a manual helium‑escape valve. Originally rated to 300 metres when new.

Q: Which movement does it use and how long does the battery last?
A: This reference typically houses the Omega Calibre 1538 quartz movement. Expect around 2–4 years of battery life depending on use and storage. Many examples use a 1.55V silver‑oxide cell (e.g., Renata 394/SR936SW), but please have a professional confirm the exact battery for this specific watch. The seconds hand usually “jumps” in 4‑second intervals to indicate a low battery (EOL function).

Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim or dive with it?
A: The Seamaster 300M was originally rated to 300m, but water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. If you plan to swim or dive, have the gaskets replaced and the watch pressure‑tested by a qualified watchmaker, and always ensure the crown and helium valve are fully screwed in. Without recent testing, treat it as splash‑resistant only and avoid showers, saunas and submersion.

Q: How do I set the time and date on this quartz model?
A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Pull to the first click to quick‑set the date, and to the second click to set the time (the seconds hand will stop). Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am. When finished, push the crown back in and screw it down firmly to help maintain water resistance.

Q: What crystal and bezel does it have?
A: Most Seamaster Professional 300M models of this era feature a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal. The blue dive bezel is unidirectional and typically fitted with an aluminium insert. If you’d like us to verify these details for this exact watch, we’re happy to confirm.

Q: Will it fit my wrist, and can the bracelet be resized?
A: As listed, the bracelet fits up to approximately 18.5cm. We can remove or add links prior to dispatch; additional links can often be sourced (subject to availability). The lug width is typically 20mm, so you can also fit compatible straps if preferred. Share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise the best sizing options.

Q: What is the helium‑escape valve and do I need it?
A: The manual helium‑escape valve (at 10 o’clock) is designed for professional saturation diving to release internal pressure during decompression. For everyday wear and recreational swimming, you won’t need to use it—just keep it fully screwed in at all times.

Q: How accurate is it and what servicing is recommended?
A: A healthy Omega quartz movement typically runs within about ±10–20 seconds per month. Replace the battery every 2–4 years and have gaskets inspected/replaced if water resistance is important. A general movement check or service every 5–10 years is sensible. Keep the watch away from strong magnets and chemicals, and rinse with fresh water after seawater exposure once the watch has been pressure‑tested.

Q: How does the quartz 2265.80 compare with the automatic Seamaster 300M?
A: The quartz wears slightly thinner and lighter, offers set‑and‑go convenience and lower maintenance, and has a ticking seconds hand. The automatic version has a sweeping seconds hand and mechanical charm but requires periodic winding (if unworn) and servicing. Both share the classic 300M design language and original depth rating.

Q: What’s included, and what about authenticity, warranty and shipping?
A: This listing is delivered with no accessories unless otherwise stated. A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. All watches include a 12‑month movement guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers—please contact us with any specific delivery or warranty questions.