Introducing the New Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Black & White: A Dazzling Fusion of Tradition and Modernity!
Omega has unveiled two fresh variations of its iconic Speedmaster Moonwatch, each showcasing a stunning blend of contemporary flair and classic design.
What You Need to Know
Today marks an exciting addition to Omega’s Speedmaster Moonwatch family, featuring the much-loved reverse panda dials. Available in both robust stainless steel and elegant Omega's 18K Moonshine Gold, these timepieces retain the familiar aesthetic we all know, yet introduce a new level of sophistication with their lacquered dual-layer dials and ceramic bezels.
The primary dial layer boasts a sleek, high-gloss polished black finish, while the lower layer peeks through with a contrasting glossy white lacquer. This striking design allows for cutouts that reveal three subdials, each adorned with markers and numerals in the opposite colors: the main minute track and text are displayed in white, with the subdials featuring black numerals and indices. The hands and applied markers harmonize with the casing materials of each model, and the distinguished Omega logo hints at the innovative sapphire sandwich construction—incorporating sapphire crystals on both front and back, moving away from traditional hesalite.
This modernization beautifully aligns with Omega’s vision for the Moonwatch, as the bezel has been upgraded from aluminum to durable black ceramic, complete with a white enamel tachymeter. This particular detail isn’t frequently seen across the current catalog of Moonwatch models; it's primarily reserved for select precious-metal and two-tone options. By offering a ceramic bezel insert on a stainless steel variant, Omega is undoubtedly catering to collectors seeking a bold, modern interpretation of their timeless chronograph.
At the heart of these watches lies the reliable Calibre 3861 chronograph movement. This manually wound, cam-operated mechanism provides a power reserve of 50 hours and is proudly METAS-certified. It features Omega’s innovative free-sprung balance and co-axial escapement, ensuring precision and durability.
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Black & White is now available for purchase, priced at $10,400 for the stainless steel model and $49,300 for the luxurious Moonshine Gold variant.
Our Thoughts
Starting the year with these releases is certainly exciting! While they don’t drastically alter the established design, many will likely appreciate this measured approach—especially those who found last year’s Planet Ocean redesign to be a bit too radical. Importantly, these models do not replace the beloved classic Moonwatches. It’s refreshing to see a reverse panda dial introduced into the steel Moonwatch offerings within the standard catalog.
Omega’s decision to incorporate a ceramic bezel on a steel Moonwatch is particularly intriguing, as it adds an aesthetic dimension that perfectly complements the glossy nature of the entire dial. And trust us, this dial shines brilliantly!
Although the watch community often cherishes the Moonwatch for its faithful homage to the models worn during the 1960s moon landing, these new iterations align well with Omega’s modern design ethos: they are shinier and more appealing to today’s consumers. Parallels can be drawn to other contemporary chronographs on the market, notably the ceramic-bezeled Rolex Daytona, as Omega continues to launch products that reflect its ambition for a more upscale and glossy appeal (after all, this version signifies that the steel Moonwatch has officially crossed the $10,000 mark!).
Having had a brief opportunity to examine these watches in person, I noticed they carry a slightly bulkier feel compared to the original versions. Initially, I thought it was a mere illusion, but indeed, these models are a fraction thicker than the typical variants, increasing from 13.18mm to 13.54mm. This can be attributed to the dual-layer dial construction, which inherently adds thickness, especially with the distinctly sunken subdials. Stay tuned for my colleague Mark’s detailed review of these two Moonwatches, where he will provide additional insights and observations after spending more time with them.
Specifications at a Glance
- Brand: Omega
- Model: Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Black and White
- Reference Numbers: 310.30.42.50.01.004 (Steel), 310.60.42.50.01.002 (Gold)
- Diameter: 42mm
- Thickness: 13.54mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel; 18k Moonshine Gold
- Dial Color: Unique double plate "step" dial, featuring polished black varnished and lacquered finish with rhodium-plated subdial frames and polished white varnished subdials
- Indexes: Rhodium-plated or diamond-polished hour markers
- Lume: Hands filled with white Super-Luminova (green emission); luminous plots on the edges of the markers.
- Water Resistance: 50m
- Strap/Bracelet: Matching case bracelet with polished sides and Omega's patented comfort release adjustment system (2 positions, 2.30mm), fitting between lugs at 20 mm and 15 mm at clasp.
Movement Details
- Caliber: OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds at 9 o'clock, chronograph, 30-minute recorder at 3 o'clock, 12-hour recorder at 6 o'clock
- Power Reserve: 50 hours
- Winding: Manual
- Frequency: 21,600 A/h (3 Hz)
- Jewels: 26
- Chronometer Certified: METAS certified
- Additional Features: Includes Omega’s free-sprung balance, Co-Axial Escapement, and NIVACHOC shock protection.
Pricing and Availability
- Price: $10,400 (Steel), $49,300 (Gold)
- Availability: Currently available
- Limited Edition: No
For further details, feel free to click here.
What are your thoughts on Omega's new releases? Are you excited about the modern twist on such a classic design? Join the conversation and share your opinions below!
