A replica hippocampus 2013 is a counterfeit Omega Seamaster from the generation Omega refreshed between 2011 and 2013, named for the hippocampus (seahorse) emblem stamped on the Seamaster caseback. The label covers copies of the Seamaster Diver 300M, Planet Ocean 600M, Aqua Terra, and the 2013 Bullhead reissue. Collectors use it to separate this batch from older 2005 to 2010 copies and from later Master Chronometer replicas.
Why is it called a hippocampus replica?
The hippocampus is the seahorse Omega has placed on Seamaster casebacks since the line launched in 1948. That relief is one of the hardest case details to fake well, so it became shorthand for judging a Seamaster copy. A shallow, laser-etched seahorse is the first thing an experienced buyer checks.
Which 2013 Seamaster models are copied most?
- Aqua Terra >15,000 Gauss: the 2013 Master Co-Axial release with a teak deck dial.
- Planet Ocean 600M: 42mm and 45.5mm cases with the 8500 calibre and ceramic bezel.
- Seamaster Diver 300M: the ceramic dial and bezel update at 41mm.
- Seamaster Bullhead: the 2013 chronograph reissue limited to 669 pieces.
What are the main tells on a 2013-era replica?
Check the caseback relief, the crystal, and the dial printing. Genuine seahorse medallions sit deep with crisp fins, while 2013 replicas were stamped thin with soft edges and a flat mirror polish.
- Caseback: sharp engraved text, correct reference and serial fonts, no laser haze.
- Crystal: double-sided anti-reflective coating with a blue tint at an angle.
- Dial: teak lines or wave texture stay crisp, and printed text is thin and raised.
- Bezel: ceramic insert with a clean lume pip and even, clicky rotation.
- Bracelet: tapered links, correct clasp stamping, no sharp edges.
What movement sits inside a replica hippocampus 2013?
Almost none carry a genuine Omega 8500 or Master Co-Axial calibre. Most 2013 copies used a Chinese automatic or a decorated ETA 2824 clone with a fake rotor and engraved plates. The date changes slowly, the second hand can stutter, and the power reserve falls well short of a real 60 hours.
How much should one cost, and what are the risks?
Typical 2013-style copies sold for about $150 to $400 depending on the movement, and most "Swiss made" claims are marketing. Counterfeit watches can be seized by customs, carry no warranty, and are refused by many watchmakers for service. Genuine Omega parts do not fit these cases.
Frequently asked questions
Is a replica hippocampus 2013 waterproof?
Assume no. Seals are often missing or poor, so keep it away from water unless a watchmaker pressure-tests and reseals it.
Can a jeweler service a replica Seamaster?
Many will not touch counterfeits. Those who do usually swap the whole movement rather than repair it, which costs as much as the watch.
How do I check a seahorse caseback quickly?
Use a loupe. Real relief is deep and consistent, while fakes look shallow, soft, and slightly blurry along the fins.