Page Dimensions

Approx. 8" x 10 7/8" (20cm x 27cm)

Story and Details

I like to call this magazine advertisement a "mini movie poster" as it would easily hold up as such if printed on a much larger scale. Of course, the movie being promoted is Pierce Brosnan's first Bond film, "GoldenEye" from 1995. But it wasn't just Brosnan's debut in a Bond flick... It was also the first time the Omega Seamaster appeared in a leading role.

Before Agent 007 clasped a Omega Seamaster Professional Ref. 2541.80 to his wrist, the most-famous brand he trusted was famously Rolex. While the "Big Crown" Submariner Ref. 6538 worn in the earliest Bond films, such as "Dr. No", "Goldfinger", and "Thunderball" will probably go down in history as the "quintessential" Bond watch, I'd argue the Seamaster Professional is just as much a quintessential part of Bond's equipment and attire.

The Omega Seamaster is now synonymous with James Bond because of the marketing... Starting in 1995 with "GoldenEye" through the latest series in the Bond Empire, "No Time To Die", where Daniel Craig sports a newer Seamaster - with a more complex Reference (i.e., 210.90.42.20.01.001), the model has come to symbolize Bond. It's also become an integral part of Omega. The brand is more beloved today because of the people who fell in love (continue to fall in love) with the Seamaster - because of its association with James Bond.

This story of this legendary partnership and campaign is linked to none other than watch industry legend Jean-Claude Biver, who is credited with establishing key brand ambassador relationships for Omega, including supermodel Cindy Crawford. Of course, landing Bond was huge. Seamaster sales definitely picked up! Whether or not the Seamaster was initially a costume designer's choice or a result of a bold move Biver negotiation, it will go down in history as one of the best product placement/endorsement deals of all-time (certainly when it comes to wristwatches).

This advertisement is an absolute milestone ad for Omega. It's not just a celebration of a new era in the Bond history, but represents a turning point in Omega's story. No longer do they only have the Speedmaster x NASA connection to lean on. This hallmark magazine ad was published in 1995 and 1996. On a rare occasions it's "clean" with no jeweler name. More often, it has a stamp from a jeweler. Interestingly, the version of the model featured in the advertisement is the Ref. 2531.80, which is the larger, automatic option. Of course, the actual Seamaster Bond wore in "GoldenEye" is the larger (41mm) quartz 2541.80 reference.