Omega Ploprof Prototype: Unveiling the Early Development of an Icon

DrStrong · 2020-12-23T02:26:08Z

Explore DrStrong's rare Omega Ploprof prototype, used for in-house testing. Discover insights into its development, movement variations, and authentication challenges.

DrStrong

WPS member · Omega forum

30 replies3968 views2 photos

DrStrong, a distinguished collector, shares an extraordinary acquisition: an Omega Ploprof prototype. This piece offers a rare glimpse into the rigorous in-house testing phase during the Ploprof's early development, providing invaluable insight into the evolution of one of Omega's most iconic dive watches. His detailed account and accompanying images illuminate the subtle yet significant variations that existed before the final production model.

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I have just added this ploprof prototype to my collection.

It was used by Omega for in-house tests at the early stage of the developement of the Ploprof.

A familily shot with my other Prototype from the same batch.

Key Points from the Discussion

Early Ploprof prototypes featured various case, movement, dial, and hand configurations for testing, including plastic or steel locknuts and different caliber movements (1000, 1001 with thermal compensation, and the production 1002). The existence of black dials is debated, with some suggesting they were early color tests while others believe blue dials simply discolored over time.
Omega can confirm a watch's original movement, sale date, and location via an extract, but not necessarily the original dial color, though it usually aligns with the era. Service cases also have distinct internal markings.
The market for vintage Ploprofs, particularly SHOM models, is complicated by the release of authentic parts to third-party vendors, leading to a proliferation of 'put-together' watches. An Omega extract of the archives is crucial for authenticating these pieces.
The original Ploprof is surprisingly comfortable on the wrist compared to the 1200m reissue, despite its robust size. Some prototypes have specific markings on the caseback, indicating their experimental nature.
The unique case shape of the Ploprof means divers do not need weighted belts to wear it. The 'baby brother' SHOM model also features a distinctive case design.

The Discussion

Cpt Scarlet

Dec 23, 2020

Huge congratulations 👏 👏👏

That’s a great Omega. Enjoy !

DrStrong

Dec 23, 2020

Thank you, much appreciated

VinnieD

Dec 23, 2020

Well done for these historic specimens

You do not need any weighted belt to dive with these on your wrist. Cool case shape! I am currently looking at their baby brother, the SHOM, which also boasts a funky case

Dr No

Dec 23, 2020

Please be cautious as many are put-togethers . . .

. . . from authentic parts. Omega released several cases and dials to third party vendors which induced a proliferation of SHOMs in as-new condition. An extract would literally be worth its weight in gold . . .

VinnieD

Dec 23, 2020

Sure

I am aware of this problem. It looks like 90% are put-togethers. This is ok with me if given that I am planning to use it for sailing and active duties, provided the price is right

Bill

Dec 23, 2020

Mine all have extracts from the archives but you only supply mouvement serial.

They can confirm from the mouvement that it was indeed born in a Ploprof and when and where it was sold. But you can’t confirm the dial it was born with just the era but that usually aligns with the dials. Service case also has different markings inside.