As the only watch NASA has flight-qualified for space missions, the Moonwatch stands out as Omega’s most famous and historical model, defined by the role Omega Speedmaster’s moon landing legacy. Introduced in 1957, it has seen several updates throughout the years. Now the brand has introduced a new version featuring a reverse panda-lacquer dial to kick off 2026, available in 18K moonshine gold and stainless steel.
Pictured below is the original Omega Speedmaster documentation from 1965, when the watch was officially certified by NASA for manned space missions—cementing its place in horological and spaceflight history.
This release continues Omega’s long-standing commitment to precision chronographs and professional tool watches, further strengthening its place among the most respected Swiss watchmakers. For those interested in the broader collection, explore our selection of Omega watches to see how the Moonwatch fits into the brand’s modern lineup.
This article will tell you what to expect when watch meets wrist.
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Experience
Appearance
The different materials affect the watch’s appearance in various ways, but let’s start by discussing the overall design.
Each watch features a 42mm Professional case, offering an asymmetrical design, an integrated bracelet, crown-guard shoulders, and the familiar three-register chronograph layout with subdials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. The deep black lacquer stands out from the white varnish of the lower plate. The high legibility reminds us that this is a NASA-approved instrument.
The dial is framed by a black tachymeter insert with a white scale. A tapered bracelet slips from the twisted lugs, accentuating the bold design while adding elegant sophistication.
Stainless Steel
The stainless steel model offers more of a ‘tool watch’ DNA. Its brushed surfaces with polished accents provide a utilitarian appearance. The monochrome look is understated, reading more as a professional chronograph than a luxury dress watch. The hands and markers are white with a somewhat creamy lume.
18K Gold
While dressier, the gold watch also features a combination of polished and brushed surfaces, bringing a classic look down to earth. It provides a consistent appearance with gold hands, a gold bezel ring, and applied elements that match the external hardware. Overall, this model speaks of heritage and celebration, which sets it apart from the stainless-steel tool-watch aesthetic.
The Fit
At 42mm, this is a larger watch. However, its relatively slim case and twisted lugs make it feel smaller. Although it has presence, it will slide under most shirt cuffs.
The different metals affect the fit with stainless steel offering a lighter, more balanced feel that’s ideal for everyday wear. The gold watch is heavier on the wrist, letting owners know they are wearing a serious watch. However, as with the stainless steel model, the curved lugs and slim case make it present rather than uncomfortably heavy.
The Bracelet
Each watch features a vintage-inspired 5-link bracelet in the chosen metal material. The aggressive taper from the lugs to the clasp provides an elegant, flowing line that prevents the watch from feeling blocky. Polished edges and bevels catch the light as the wrist moves and stand out from the brushed case flanks.
The clasp features a double-folding butterfly system that keeps it secure. Micro-adjustment provides the ideal fit, allowing wearers to compensate for wrist swelling throughout the day. The fully milled solid construction reinforces a sense of quality.
Caseback and Movement
Both watches feature a Sapphire display back, allowing the movement to be seen in full. The finishing is worthy of exhibition, offering calibre striped or satinated surfaces and beveled edges. A surrounding ring states “The first watch worn on the moon,” and asserts its co-axial chronometer movement.
Speaking of which, the watch features the Calibre Omega 3816 manual-winding chronograph movement with a Co-Axial escapement. It is a Certified Master Chronometer, Metas-approved with a free-sprung balance. The 50-hour power reserve and 50m water resistance back its reliability.
Functionality
Each subdial offers a unique function: the dial at 9 o’clock runs seconds, while a 30-minute counter lies at 3 o’clock and is adjacent to a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock. When you press the top pusher, the second hand will sweep around the dial, measuring elapsed seconds.
The tachymeter scale measures speed over a known distance, such as a mile— a hallmark feature of professional chronographs and a defining part of chronograph functionality. To use it, start the chronograph when the object passes the starting point, and stop it when the object reaches its endpoint. The second hand will point to a number on the tachymeter scale, indicating the average speed over that distance.
Purchase Your Next Watch at Precision Watches
The new Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is an exciting release, and it may inspire you to take a closer look at your own timepiece. Precision Watches offers a curated selection of luxury chronographs, along with Omega watch repair and servicing to support owners throughout the lifetime of their watch.
Explore our collection online or visit our Lower Gwynedd showroom to experience the Speedmaster in person and speak with our watch specialists.
FAQs
1. Is the Moonwatch still manually wound?
Yes, in traditional fashion, the Moonwatch is still manually wound. This feature provides a small ritual for owners and keeps the watch relatively slim.
2. Should I choose the gold or stainless steel Moonwatch?
The stainless steel Moonwatch is a utilitarian model that is suitable for everyday wear. It appeals to those seeking a relatively comfortable, casual watch that stands the test of time.
The gold Moonwatch is a dressier option that many will reserve for special occasions. Its heaviness on the wrist may not make it ideal for everyday wear, and it is not as damage-resistant as its steel alternative.
3. What is the water resistance of the new Speedmaster Moonwatch?
The Speedmaster Moonwatch’s water resistance is 50 meters. It can withstand light splashes and rain and may even be submerged for brief periods. However, it is not a diver’s watch.
4. What does ‘Professional’ mean on the Moonwatch case and dial?
Professional refers to the asymmetrical NASA-qualified case design introduced in the 1960s. Features include a 42mm case with twisted lugs, crown-guard shoulders on the right side, and manual chronograph movement.
5. How does budget factor into the decision?
Those deciding between the stainless steel and 18K gold models should consider the cost. With the gold model costing about five times as much as its steel counterpart, price can be a significant factor.
6. Why is the panda dial a big deal for Moonwatch enthusiasts?
The panda dial is a big deal for Moonwatch enthusiasts because it gives them a fresh way to enjoy the design while honoring its heritage, taps into a popular collector’s aesthetic, and ties the Moonwatch’s space story back to its racing roots.
