Youcan be sure that an acrylic crystal will get scratched. Especially under a loupe or macro lens, you will see scratches clearly. If this bothers you, perhaps it would be wise to go for the sapphire version. If not, rest assured you can have the Hesalite crystal polished (using Polywatch) or replaced during a service.
Hard to tell, different markets suffers differently as far as economy goes. Would presume there is a difference between the new/old bracelet, and expectations surrounding calibre upgrade would likely matter.
Basicly there are piles of high end and luxury watches available. Not sure if Rolex has started deliveries or if they are still buliding shortages for the Titanium Yachtmaster, but that might be one of few factory made watches that in fact would be tricky to get. For the rest, pick and choose whatever your budget is.
Good Article R.J .I try one Hesalite version at my local Omega Retailer ,The watch head is Nice .Il be very polite but the bracelet is not what you expect from a 9800$ Canadian watch.It is not going to Happen for me at that price ,
sorry Omega .This New Moonwatch is way overprice for what you offer.(like a lot of stuff out there the way)
My Seiko Speedmaster 7A28-7040 will do the trick for now.
Instead of getting a new Speedy, I purchased (for the third time??) a 3570.50 and then added the Forstner Bullet bracelet. A worthwhile compromise as it was only $185. I liked it so much I added it to my Tokyo Blue Speedy. This time I might just finally keep this Speedy and not sell it.?
Really depends on what the buyer wants and likes. Speedmasters do come with a fair amount of history. I think many find that value added. And while there have been a lot of design upgrades and tweaks, Omega has not departed that far from the early models.
Fully agree with you, Scott!
I actually bought mine with the cordura strap because of the looks, but once I saw the updated bracelet with the micro-extension clasp, I had to buy it separately. Supremely comfortable and looks fantastic!
Take your watch in to be serviced. While this seems to be a common problem, it also happened on my 3861, a trip to the Swatch repair centre fixed the problem. Now my minute register finishes its movement at :00 and starts it around :59.
As for what else is available for similar or less, that question will be answered next year by Tudor with their Prince chrono. A new class-leading vertical-clutch column-wheel automatic with 200m water-resistance and similar proportions to the Moonwatch. That watch will do to the chrono segment what the Black Bay did to the diver segment, i.e., become the new benchmark for design, quality and value.
Of course, the Speedy Pro is one of the most beautiful sports-watch designs of all time. There has never been any debate about this. But this is 2023, and a manual-wind lateral-clutch cam-operated watch priced over $7k is not a good proposition.
I have had my 3861 speedy for nearly 2 years now and it has performed fantastically. I purchased my first speedmaster (3570.50 hesalite) so buying another speedmaster that almost looks identical to each other is a bit mad (does this hobby have to make sense?)
Beyond my budget yet a permanent fixture in my unobtainasia list, I probably should reserve that Speedmaster slot for a spirated iteration. The only great alternative to the present base models is the upcoming spirated replacement.
Your statement is unfortunately very true, my 20 years old sea dweller and my 35 years old speedy are the most comfortable watches ( distressed bracelets might have something to do with it) i own when my more recent explorer and globemaster ( particularly the globemaster) tend to generate some kind of wrist fatigue at the end of the day.
By the way i can tell that they are all very reliable ( i might be lucky i suppose) ?
I own and enjoy the 3861 hesalite daily. The historical design significance speaks for itself. I find the tapered bracelet and clasp more comfortable than an oyster or jubilee. And its still a bargain. Well done Omega.
One of the biggest differences (for me) not mentioned in the article from this iteration compared to last is the lug to lug length. It has been shortened just enough to make it a perfect fit on my 6.5 inch flat wrist. The previous iteration was slightly longer and made some space near the edge of my wrist, but this new snug fit, and the much improved tapered bracelet was enough for me to make the upgrade.
For some reason I prefer the older Non Step dial (and the early 2000s dark grey broad arrow dial) over the new step dial.
Specialy in combination with the sapphire crystal the new step dial look some how small and unusual to me.
Great article! Nice to hear your thoughts, as always. I just bought the sapphire version on strap/deployant two weeks ago and having fun experimenting with straps. Got it for just under $6,000 new here in the US, which I think is a pretty decent buy compared to other chronographs on the market. Like you, I wish for a bit more water resistance, but certainly not a deal killer since Omega vouches for its seals and resistance in testing. A classic watch to be sure! Cheers!
Douglas
I have two 1861 Speedmasters. A modified sapphire sandwich Moonwatch and a modified First Omega in Space. I bought a new Sapphire Sandwich on a leather strap and fitted the flatlink bracelet from the 50th Anniversary. I like everything about the watch. I have noticed no flaws, and it has operated seamlessly. The 3861 movement is superior to the 1861 movement in every way.
Launched in 1957, the OMEGA Speedmaster was originally developed as a racing chronograph. However, the Speedmaster gained global fame in 1965 when NASA qualified it for use on piloted space missions. The OMEGA Speedmaster made history in 1969 as the first watch worn on the moon. This extraordinary legacy has earned the Speedmaster the nickname "Moonwatch." To learn more, explore the detailed OMEGA Speedmaster history.
The flagship OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch is directly descended from the watches NASA astronauts wore to the moon. It has a classic 42mm case and hesalite crystal. This historic connection not only underscores the Moonwatch's robust engineering and timeless design but also its significant role in space exploration history.
Inspired by the lunar landing, the OMEGA Dark Side of the Moon has a black ceramic case and cutting-edge Co-Axial movements. It brings a modern edge to the Speedmaster. The Dark Side of the Moon version of the Speedmaster represents a perfect fusion of OMEGA's innovative spirit and its storied space-faring heritage.
With 39mm proportions, the OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced offers vintage-inspired style in a smaller case size. Older models use a hybrid movement with a chronograph module. This more compact version of the Speedmaster is particularly appealing to those who prefer a subtler, classic look but still want the distinctive Speedmaster aesthetic.
The OMEGA Moonphase displays the current moon phase in an aperture on the subdial at 6 o'clock. It features either an automatic or manual-wind movement. The meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating the Moonphase complication underscores OMEGA's commitment to precision and aesthetic elegance.
Evoking the Speedmaster's motorsport origins, the OMEGA Speedmaster Racing incorporates racing design elements like checkered flags, bright colors, and perforated leather. These stylistic cues pay homage to the adrenaline-filled world of professional racing, blending performance with a sporty flair that appeals to motorsport enthusiasts.
The OMEGA Speedmaster 57 is a retro-styled collection that pays homage to the very first 1957 Speedmaster reference, the CK2915. It has a 41.5mm case. This model revisits the original's iconic features, such as the broad arrow hands and the vintage Omega logo, marrying them with modern materials and technology.
With a 38mm case and typically diamond-set bezels, the OMEGA Speedmaster 38 is a refined unisex collection with a slimmer profile. Most models have automatic movements. This series caters to those seeking elegance alongside functionality, offering a variety of dial colors and coordinated subdials that enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Built for space missions, the analog-digital OMEGA X-33 has multiple functions useful to astronauts and pilots, such as mission timers, multiple time zones, and alarms. This model exemplifies Omega's commitment to serving the needs of professionals who require more than just timekeeping capabilities from their watches.
OMEGA resurrected its famous caliber 321 manual-wind movement, the same one used in early Speedmasters. The OMEGA 321 powers limited edition "Ed White" tributes. By powering the "Ed White" tributes with this legendary movement, OMEGA not only preserves but also celebrates its rich heritage in watchmaking and space exploration, making these timepieces highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
With distinctive barrel-shaped cases, the OMEGA Speedmaster Mark II reissues are modern recreations of a 1969 model designed for enhanced readability and ease of use. These reissues maintain the original's sleek, streamlined aesthetic while incorporating contemporary materials and OMEGA's advanced technology for improved performance.
The newest Speedmaster model, the OMEGA Chronoscope has a 1940s-inspired "heritage" design. It features a manual-wind movement with multiple scales on the dial. The Chronoscope's dial includes a tachymeter, telemeter, and pulsometer, offering a variety of measuring capabilities that echo the functionality of vintage chronographs.
The OMEGA Snoopy is a beloved series of limited edition watches that pay homage to the enduring relationship between OMEGA and NASA, particularly the role of the Speedmaster in the Apollo missions. The Snoopy editions feature the beloved Peanuts character, Snoopy, who has become a symbol of NASA's safety and success, with various designs incorporating the iconic beagle on the dial, caseback, or even as a special presentation box. These whimsical and highly collectible timepieces showcase OMEGA's ongoing commitment to space exploration and the brand's ability to create watches that capture the imagination of enthusiasts and collectors alike.
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