Omega Speedmaster Watch Review
Mike | Founder, Biel Watches
Aug 19, 2024
When the talk turns to chronographs, two names tend to run the room: the Rolex Daytona and the Omega Speedmaster. Both have earned their place among the greats, and yet I keep finding myself pulled toward the Speedmaster over the Daytona.
Surprised? Let me walk you through why this "Moonwatch" wins me over every single time.
A Tale of Two Icons
The Omega Speedmaster, known to most as the "Moonwatch," wrote itself into history when it became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. That tie to space exploration gives it a pedigree nothing else can touch, and it is a big part of why the watch stands as a true icon in horology.
The Rolex Daytona took a different road, making its name in motorsports, with the name itself coming from the famed Daytona International Speedway. It is the racing chronograph people point to, and it is famously tied to Paul Newman.
On the Wrist: A Perfect Fit
The current Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch lineup runs a 42mm case, which is a great size for bigger wrists like mine. It wears easy, and because Omega folds the crown and pushers into their measurements, the watch actually feels a touch smaller on the wrist. The stainless steel bracelet starts at a 20mm lug width and tapers down, so you get a fit that is both secure and clean. The Jubilee-esque links bring a little vintage charm and add to the comfort and everyday wearability.
If 42mm is not your size, the Speedmaster gives you plenty of other references to look at. The Speedmaster Racing (ref. 329.32.44.51.01.001) steps up to a larger 44mm case, while the vintage-inspired "Ed White" Speedmaster (ref. 105.003) sits at a more modest 38mm. If you want something in the middle, the "First Omega in Space" comes in at 40mm. Between these and more, there is a Speedmaster for just about every wrist and every taste.
I have been lucky enough to handle a number of Speedmasters at Biel Watches HQ, and I can tell you honestly that each one is a pleasure to wear. The versatility is what gets me. Swap the bracelet for a vintage leather strap and it becomes a completely different watch, which is what makes it work for just about any occasion. The Hesalite version has its own charm and a friendlier price, but I usually find myself leaning toward the "sapphire sandwich" variant, with its exhibition case back showing off the movement underneath.
If you want a Daytona with a display caseback, be ready to spend six figures on the secondary market for a platinum Daytona (ref. 116506).
Functionality: More Than Just a Timer
In a world where our phones handle just about everything, a chronograph might sound outdated. But there really is something special about having a timer right on your wrist. No unlocking, no swiping, just one satisfying click. The engineering that makes that happen is a joy to watch, especially through the sapphire crystal case back of the Speedmaster reference 310.30.42.50.01.002.
If Hesalite and Sapphire crystals are new terms for you, here is the quick version. Hesalite is a type of acrylic crystal. It is softer than sapphire but more resistant to shattering, which is part of what earned it NASA's approval. It can scratch, but minor marks buff out easily with a professional watchmaker, or even at home with a little "Polywatch" and some elbow grease. Sapphire is far more scratch-resistant, though not fully immune. In my opinion the roughly $1,000 premium for the sapphire version is well worth it, especially with the display case back you get in the bargain.
Some purists point out that the sapphire crystal can throw a halo effect in certain light. I have found it to be a small thing that does not take away from the experience at all.
Final Thoughts: A One-Watch Collection?
By now it should be pretty clear that I am a die-hard Speedmaster guy. I really do believe it could be the centerpiece of a one-watch collection, especially for anyone just getting started in this hobby. The history, the timeless looks, the reasonable price, and how easily it wears all add up to a watch that is hard NOT to love.
Like I said, I take the Speedmaster over the Rolex Daytona. The Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, and the "Sapphire Sandwich" in particular, retails for around $8,000 MSRP, and you can often find it for slightly less pre-owned on the secondary market. The Rolex Daytona retails for close to double the Speedy, and that is only if you are lucky enough to have the "spend history" to actually get the call from a Rolex Authorized Dealer. Right now Daytona prices on the secondary market are hovering around $25,000, which is pure madness.
Both watches earn a spot in any serious collector's box, but for me the Omega Speedmaster will always hold a special place. Its knack for pairing with all kinds of straps makes it a versatile addition to any wardrobe, and it is a piece of history you get to wear on your wrist.
What are your thoughts on the Omega Speedmaster? I would love to hear from you in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation going.
Founder, Biel Watches
Mike is the founder of Biel Watches, where he helps collectors buy, sell, and source authenticated Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin. He would rather have a real conversation than make a quick sale, and it shows in how his clients keep coming back.
