What is the function of the distinct helium escape valve on the Seamaster Planet Ocean watches?
The distinct valve on the left hand side of the Seamaster professional watches is key technology for divers working at great depths. Professional divers can stay in a diving bell for sometimes several days, breathing a mix of gases containing high proportions of helium. The pressure is increased gradually to reach the pressure at the working depth. The divers, still inside the bell, are then lowered to the working site level. They will then typically leave the bell to carry out their work. Once the Divers’ work is complete, they will re-enter the bell, which is then raised to the surface. Pressure is then returned to atmospheric levels and this is when the helium escape valve must be opened. The helium molecules diffuse and penetrate the material of the gaskets. The quantity is sufficient to push out the crystal during the return to atmospheric pressure. To avoid this, the Seamaster Professional Diver is equipped with this valve, specially designed by OMEGA.
