If you are familiar with the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional, you know it is one of the brand’s most prestigious watches. Introduced as part of the Speedmaster line, it was selected for spaceflight in the 1960s and worn on the first American spacewalk and on Apollo 11. The Buzz Aldrin Speedmaster was the first to be worn on the moon.
As an authorized Omega dealer, Precision Watches has the honor of featuring the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional 42mm 18K Yellow Gold 310.63.42.50.10.001 priced at $23,995, a 2022 release and part of the series of gold Moonwatch watches in Omega’s Moonshine gold alloy. Here’s what we noticed based on our experience working with this highly regarded timepiece.
Hands-On Review Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch
Observing the watch up close, we noticed outstanding features like a superior fit, exceptional aesthetics, and optimal functionality. Here’s a breakdown of all it has to offer.
Appearance
The watch pays homage to its original vintage appearance, with features such as three subdials, a dot over 90, and a 42mm case. However, its most notable changes are the upgrade from stainless steel to 18K gold and the green dial.
The 18K gold is no ordinary gold. Instead, it is Omega’s proprietary gold alloy, comprising silver, copper, gold, and palladium. It produces a more subtle tone than most yellow golds, creating a warmer appearance that stands out without being too flashy. The material is also supposed to protect the watch from fading.
The consensus? It perfectly complements the green dial and surrounding bezel with tachymeter scale. It’s ideal for anyone who likes subtle luxury.
Another feature to consider is the consistent layering of gold. The watch features yellow-gold applique indices and a matching Omega logo, creating a cohesive aesthetic that’s pleasing to the eye. The gold color also stands out nicely on the darker surface, offering optimal readability, which is further enhanced by its glow-in-the-dark luminosity.
The Fit
The watch is true to its original size with a 42mm case that’s larger than most. However, we found it fits perfectly on a 7-8 inch wrist, making it ideal for the average man.
It could be that the 47.5 lug-to-lug measurement provides a slimming effect, or the darker base and dial could make it look small and not too overbearing. The overall message is- don’t be intimidated by the size.
However, the cantilever can get hung up on dress shirts, so that’s one feature to keep in mind.
The Strap
The watch is complemented by a green matte alligator leather strap that further establishes the theme of alternating dark green and gold. It is nicely bolstered and stuffed with single-stitch lining. The clasp is moonshine gold with the Omega logo and features a gold twin trigger release, ensuring the watch won’t pop open.
Caseback and Movement
Turning the watch over, you’ll find a transparent caseback- and here’s where you’ll notice the most watch updates.
The newer model features the same Calibre 3861 Master Chronograph movement with some improvements. Most notable is the 26 joules of movement, up from the previous 18. The free-sprung architecture supports more precise movements and greater shock tolerance. Anti-magnetism is also increased to over 15,000 Gauss.
Other updated features include hacking seconds, allowing you to stop the second hand by pulling out the crown. It also offers a 50-hour power reserve, up 2 hours from the previous models. Overall, the watch is highly durable and accurate, and features one of the most sophisticated escapements on the market.
The watch is waterproof up to 50 meters, a depth Omega claims is okay for swimming, but some experts recommend exercising caution in water.
Functionality
Those new to the watch may be confused by the dial layout. The subdials are as follows:
- 30-minute chronographer counter at 3 o’clock
- 12-hour chronographer counter at 6 o’clock
- Runs small seconds at 9 o’clock
The tachymeter dial works with the chronograph second hand to tell you how many miles or kilometers you’re traveling per hour over a fixed distance.
Experience Omega Speedmaster Gold Moonwatch at Precision Watches
Does the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional sound good to you? If so, try it out by visiting our Lower Gwynedd showroom. It’s also available for purchase online.
And if the Speedmaster Moonwatch isn’t the perfect fit for you, we offer an extensive selection of new Omega watches and a curated collection of pre-owned Omega watches, guaranteeing you find the perfect timepiece at a reasonable price. Our authorized Omega watch repair services ensure your watch retains its value and delivers operational excellence throughout its lifetime. Contact us to learn more about what we offer.
FAQs
What are the key features of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional 42mm 18K Yellow Gold 310.63.42.50.10.001?
The watch’s key features include a 42mm gold case, a green dial with three subdials, a manual-wind chronograph, a green tachymeter bezel, sapphire crystals on both sides, and a Calibre 3861 Master Chronograph movement.
How do you use the chronograph on this Speedmaster?
To use the chronograph, press the top pusher to start and stop the central chronograph second hand; press the bottom pusher to reset it back to zero.
Is the watch manual-wind or automatic?
The watch is manual wind meaning owners must wind it once a day until firm resistance is felt at the crown to keep it fully powered.
Is this still a true Moonwatch if it’s gold?
Yes, although Moonwatches are typically stainless steel, the gold model is still authentic featuring signature components like the handwound design, tri-compax layout and tachymeter bezel.
Is this a good everyday watch or more of a special-occasion piece?
The robust chronograph movement and 42mm case make it a suitable everyday watch. However, the full gold construction and higher price point may mean some owners reserve it for business and more formal events.
