The OMEGA Railmaster Returns: Don’t Call It a Comeback
August 4, 2025
The Omega Railmaster was initially released as part of the OMEGA 1957 trilogy alongside the Speedmaster, OMEGA’s racing watch, and Seamaster 300, OMEGA’s diving watch. However, unlike the other two watches, it has never been adequately recognized- until now. In 2025, the company re-released the Railmaster in an updated version that offers the homage the watch deserves.
History of the OMEGA Railmaster
OMEGA released the Railmaster in 1957 as part of a professional trilogy. The watch stood out for its protective case around the movement, which made it anti-magnetic up to 1,000 gauss (a unit to measure magnetic field), an impressive achievement at the time. This feature made it ideal for engineers, technicians, scientists, and anyone else who worked with magnetic components.
Other features of the original watch included its unique bracelet with a brushed inner link set and polished outer segment. Those who saw the Oppenheimer movie may recall a scene where Cillian Murphy peers at his Railmaster, which he later wore to the red carpet premiere. Although the watch in the film is faux-aged, the aesthetic is accurate.
2003 & Mid-2000s Release
Although the Railmaster had its time, it was discontinued in 1963 due to its lack of broad appeal in the evolving technological landscape. However, it was re-released in 2003 and again in the mid-2000s as part of OMEGA’s adventurous Aqua Terra line. The latter saw the Railmaster in an Aqua Terra case, reminiscent of the Seamaster, enveloping two trilogy brands into one.
2017 Release
The Railmaster resurfaced in 2017 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the professional line. It was back and bigger than ever, featuring a 40mm x 12mm fully brushed case and caseback to support a rugged aesthetic. The style carried through to the bracelet, which had a tooled appearance.
However, the dial was the star of the show. It featured a sleek number set and a brushed dark gray dial. The numbers were sunken, providing visual depth. Although the 2017 model was popular, it was discontinued in 2024, perhaps to make way for a newer, more elegant release.
Today’s OMEGA Railmaster
The modern version has been updated to 15,000 Gauss, meeting modern METAS standards. It has been released in four styles, including:
- Steel on Steel: A gray model with a stainless steel bracelet
- Steel on Leather: A gray model with a leather strap
- Beige on Steel: A beige Small Seconds timepiece on a stainless steel bracelet
- Beige on Leather: A beige Small Seconds timepiece on a golden brown Novonappa strap
Each model blends vintage style with modern elements.
Let’s Talk Specs
The new models feature a 38mm case with a 12.36 mm thickness, making it an elegant choice. It offers alternating brushed and polished surfaces, lyre-like lugs, and a conical screw-down crown.
The gray models feature recessed Super-LumiNova-filled markers and hands that bring the watch up to date and ensure easy reading. The beige/brown dials feature numerals and indices in a faux-patina color, evoking a vintage aesthetic.
The screw-in caseback features a wave-edge design with a sapphire crystal showing coaxial 8806 (central seconds) or 8804 (small seconds) automatic movement. It offers a power reserve of 55 hours (central) or 60 hours (small). The water resistance is up to 150 meters.
Although the watch has classic elements, its updates are apparent on the dial. It offers a broad arrow handset and arrow-tipped second hands. Printed numerals appear at 3, 6, 9, and 12, while markers track the minutes. Finishing touches include the Omega and Railmaster logos.
METAS Certification
Like many modern OMEGA watches, the Railmaster is METAS certified. This means it passed rigorous testing to meet high Swiss performance standards. It must first pass COSC certification before undergoing additional tests for magnetic resistance, water resistance, and power reserve.
Anti-magnetism testing is critical, as it is a key feature of the Railmaster model. According to METAS certification, it can withstand a magnetic field of 15,000 gauss, significantly higher than the magnetism encountered daily. The testing ensures the watch continues functioning after magnetic exposure, making it ideal for modern scientists, engineers, and rail workers.
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About the Omega 1957 Trilogy
The Trilogy collection was initially released in 1957 to cater to the post-war generation. At this time, the world was enjoying a booming economy with a focus on leisure activities. Therefore, it made perfect sense to create watches like the Seamaster and Speedmaster, which appealed to racers and divers, and the Railmaster, which honored hardworking professionals.
Both the Seamaster and Speedmaster would go on to become iconic OMEGA watches. The Speedmaster was famously the first watch worn on the moon. The Seamster became a favorite among divers and adventurers and was even a watch choice for James Bond.
The Railmaster was considered the black dog of the pack but has quietly enjoyed recognition over the years. Its latest reboot may be the best one yet.
Purchase Your OMEGA Railmaster From an Authorized Dealer
Are you in the market for the new OMEGA Railmaster or other luxury watches? If so, it’s best to source them from an authorized dealer. Here’s why:
- Reduce the Risk of Counterfeits: An authorized dealer carries authentic watches, so you don’t need to worry about counterfeits.
- Warranties: Most authorized watch purchases include warranties, saving you money on repairs and replacements. They are also intimately familiar with the watches they carry, ensuring quality results.
- Insider Information: Your dealer may have insider information on exclusive deals and new releases.
· Personalized Services: After working with an authorized dealer for some time, you may build a relationship, ensuring priority access to preferred products.
Precision Watches is Your Source for Omega Watches
There are various authorized Omega watch dealers in the industry, but none match Precision Watches. We have been serving the public since 1946. Browse our website or visit our Gwynned, PA store to check out our wide selection of new and pre-owned luxury watches. We also offer expert watch repair.
Contact us for all your luxury watch needs.
