In the world of Hollywood stars and luxury timepieces, few pairings stir up as much intrigue as an actor linking arms with a brand that's synonymous with the ultimate spy. Glen Powell, the charismatic force behind hits like Top Gun: Maverick, has just stepped into the spotlight with Omega, the Swiss watchmaker that's been James Bond's go-to since the 1995 film GoldenEye. But before anyone starts speculating about tuxedos and martinis, Powell sets the record straight: this isn't about him slipping into 007's shoes. "Absolutely not," he says during a casual Zoom chat, where his display name pops up as "Glenjamin Buttons" – a playful nod that hints at his down-to-earth vibe.
Powell's connection to James Bond runs deep, stretching back to his childhood days when the secret agent series captivated him completely. "My screen name was GlenMan007," he recalls with a grin. "I loved James Bond so much." That fandom naturally extended to Omega, the brand that equipped Bond with precision and style on countless missions. Yet Powell emphasizes that you don't need a license to kill to appreciate what Omega brings to the table. "The best part is," he says, "you can love Omega without having to be James Bond." It's a refreshing take in an era where celebrity endorsements often feel scripted, reminding folks that genuine passion for craftsmanship can stand on its own.
Image credit: Omega
This announcement comes at a pivotal moment for Powell, who's built a solid rapport with Omega over the years. Back at the 2023 Golden Globes, he turned heads sporting an elegant De Ville model, a choice that blended sophistication with his rising star power. Then, after the paycheck from Top Gun: Maverick rolled in, he treated himself and his dad to matching Seamasters – a milestone purchase that felt like a rite of passage. "Just because you're a fan of Omega doesn't mean you're able to invest in one," Powell notes, highlighting the real-world hurdle of affording such heirloom-quality pieces. For him, the Seamaster has always held a special place, first sparked by those Bond films that shaped his early tastes.
Timing couldn't be better, as Omega is unveiling a revamped lineup in its higher-end Planet Ocean collection, with Powell lending his endorsement to the launch. This marks the fourth generation of the Planet Ocean, a diver's watch that's evolved from its roots in the classic Seamaster family. Drawing inspiration from Omega designs of the 1980s and 1990s, rather than the earlier 1950s vibes of previous models, these new editions feel modern yet timeless – perfect for guys who appreciate gear that's built to last through adventures, whether that's a weekend fishing trip or just navigating daily life.
The updates start with the basics, but they're the kind that make a big difference for everyday wear. Omega has slimmed down the case from a bulky 45 millimeters to a more versatile 42 millimeters, striking a balance that delivers that substantial, tool-watch presence without overwhelming the wrist. In a market where oversized watches have lost some appeal, this adjustment opens the door to a broader crowd of enthusiasts who want something rugged but refined. Gone too is the helium escape valve that used to protrude from the side at the 9 o'clock position – a feature more suited to professional saturation divers than most of us. Removing it streamlines the profile, making the watch sit smoother under a shirt cuff or alongside a casual outfit.
Visually, these Planet Oceans pop with options for burnt orange, navy blue, or classic black bezels, each one adding its own character. The case itself has been reshaped with sharper edges that give it a dynamic edge, and the lugs evoke the sleek fins of a manta ray gliding through the ocean – a subtle design flourish that elevates the overall aesthetic without overcomplicating things. On the dial, it's all about clarity and heritage: Omega's signature broad arrow hands sweep across a matte black background, with bold, easy-to-read numerals anchoring the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock spots. The beefy bezel is dive-ready, rated for serious water resistance, but it's just as at home on dry land.
Buyers get flexibility in how they wear it, too – choose between a sturdy stainless steel bracelet for that polished look or a practical rubber strap that's ideal for active days. Powell, a diehard University of Texas Longhorns supporter, naturally zeroed in on the burnt orange version, which ties into his Austin roots. "I looked at it and I literally melted," he admits, capturing that instant connection many guys feel when a watch just clicks. "Every time I'm back in Austin, it is such a hit with everyone." It's easy to see why; that vibrant pop of color stands out in a sea of neutral tones, making it a conversation starter at barbecues or tailgates.
This refresh isn't happening in isolation. Omega has been methodically fine-tuning its entire catalog this year, injecting more of that iconic Bond essence into the flagship Seamaster while bringing back the Railmaster after a long hiatus. It's a strategic move by the prestigious Swiss brand to strengthen its dive watch offerings, positioning the Planet Ocean as a standout with untapped potential. For collectors and casual fans alike, these changes signal a commitment to evolution – keeping the core DNA intact while adapting to what modern wearers really want: reliability, style, and a touch of nostalgia.
Powell's involvement adds a layer of authenticity that's hard to fake. As a GQ cover star who's navigated the ups and downs of Hollywood, he represents the kind of self-made success that resonates with men who've put in their own years grinding away. His story with Omega isn't just about glamour; it's about earning your way to those rewarding splurges, like sharing a matching watch with your old man after a big win. In a fast-paced world where trends come and go, pieces like the new Planet Ocean remind us of the value in timeless quality – something you can pass down, much like the Bond legacy that inspired it all.
As Omega continues to bridge its storied past with forward-thinking designs, this collaboration with Powell feels like a natural fit. It's not about chasing the next big role; it's about celebrating a brand that's earned its stripes through decades of innovation. For anyone who's ever admired a well-crafted watch from afar, waiting for the right moment to make it their own, this launch – and Powell's genuine enthusiasm – might just be the nudge needed to dive in.
