Watch Paparazzi

Athlete Michael Phelps spotted wearing Omega

In a promotional shoot for Omega, the most decorated Olympian in history was photographed wearing the very watch that bears his fingerprints — figuratively and literally. Michael Phelps, brand ambassador for Omega since 2004, is seen here with the Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Co-Axial Chronometer Chronograph in its special 'Michael Phelps' edition, a reference built around the swimmer's personal color palette and competitive legacy.

The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M ref. 215.32.46.51.04.001 runs on the in-house Calibre 9301, a COSC-certified Co-Axial movement beating at 25,200 vph with a 60-hour power reserve. The chronograph function deploys a column wheel and vertical clutch for smooth, precise activation. At 45.5mm in stainless steel, the case offers 600 metres of water resistance via a screw-locked crown and caseback, positioning it firmly as a serious dive-rated sports chronograph rather than a dressy complication.

The dial tells the story immediately. White lacquered surface, blue subdials at 3 and 9 o'clock, an orange-tipped seconds hand, and the number 12 rendered in orange — the University of Michigan's signature colors, chosen with Phelps's direct input. The blue ceramic unidirectional bezel features an orange aluminium insert at the first-minute graduation, a functional detail that doubles as a visual signature. The strap — blue rubber with orange stitching and a titanium deployment buckle — completes a coherent, purpose-built design identity.

For collectors, the Planet Ocean line has long occupied a respected tier in Omega's sports catalogue. The 600M chronograph specifically sits above the standard Seamaster 300M in prestige and specification, offering greater depth rating, a larger case, and a more complex movement. The Michael Phelps edition adds a layer of provenance that matters to both watch enthusiasts and sports memorabilia collectors — this is not a retroactive endorsement colorway but a documented co-creation.

At a retail price of approximately $9,000 USD, the Planet Ocean 600M Chronograph Phelps edition represents strong value for a Swiss-made, COSC-certified Co-Axial chronograph with 600m water resistance. Grey market values have held close to retail, reflecting consistent demand. For Phelps himself, wearing it in a shoot is simply wearing his own watch — a rare and authentic moment in celebrity horology.