A Cosmic Collision: Reviewing the New Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite

Omega’s Speedmaster, the “Moonwatch,” boasts a legacy deeply intertwined with space exploration. From accompanying astronauts on lunar missions to inspiring generations of watch enthusiasts, the Speedmaster remains an icon of horological achievement. Today, Omega unveils two captivating additions to the Speedmaster family: the Moonphase Meteorite models.

A Touch of the Celestial

These new Speedmasters are distinguished by their dials crafted from genuine meteorite fragments, a testament to Omega’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological innovation. The inclusion of meteorite, a material formed from celestial debris, imbues the watches with a unique cosmic character.

Design and Aesthetics

The 43mm stainless steel case, while maintaining the Speedmaster’s iconic silhouette, features an asymmetrical design, a hallmark of this particular Speedmaster line. The black or blue ceramic bezels, adorned with white enamel tachymeter scales, provide a striking contrast against the meteorite dials.

The dials themselves are a spectacle. The black PVD-coated meteorite dial on the black model offers a deep, inky backdrop, while the galvanic grey-coated meteorite dial on the blue model presents a more subdued, yet equally captivating, appearance. 18K gold hour markers and hands, treated with blue PVD on the blue model, provide a touch of luxury.

The moonphase complication, a staple of the Speedmaster Moonphase collection, takes center stage at 6 o’clock. However, these models elevate this feature with a unique twist: the moon itself is crafted from genuine pieces of lunar meteorite. This exquisite detail adds a profound sense of connection to the celestial body that inspired the Speedmaster’s legendary status.

The Heart of the Matter: Calibre 9914

Powering these cosmic creations is the in-house Calibre 9914, a hand-wound chronograph movement renowned for its precision and robustness. Master Chronometer certified, it guarantees exceptional performance in terms of accuracy, magnetism resistance, and water resistance. The column wheel and vertical clutch mechanism ensure crisp chronograph operation, while the 60-hour power reserve provides ample timekeeping autonomy.

On the Wrist: A Personal Perspective

As a watch aficionado with a penchant for the extraordinary, the Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite has ignited a spark of pure fascination within me. The way it blends rich heritage, innovative technology, and a touch of the cosmos is simply awe-inspiring. Wearing this watch wouldn’t just tell time; it would be a constant reminder of the universe’s vastness and humanity’s enduring quest to explore it.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the price. At EUR 18,800, these watches are a significant investment. While the use of meteorite and the overall craftsmanship undoubtedly justify a premium, potential buyers must carefully weigh their budget and priorities.

Conclusion

The Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite models are more than just watches; they are celestial artifacts. They embody the spirit of exploration and innovation that has defined the Speedmaster’s legendary status. With their unique dials, robust movements, and impeccable craftsmanship, these timepieces are destined to become highly sought-after collector’s items.

Certainly, here’s the reformatted version of the technical specifications for the Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite, aiming for a cleaner and more readable presentation:

Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite – Technical Specifications

Feature Specifications
Case 43mm diameter x 13.6mm thickness x 48.6mm lug-to-lug

Stainless steel asymmetrical case, brushed and polished

Fixed black or blue ceramic bezel with white enamel tachymeter scale

Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment

Sapphire caseback

50m water-resistant

Dial Black PVD coated meteorite dial on black PVD coated base or galvanic grey coated meteorite dial on a blue PVD coated base

18K gold hour markers and hands, blue heat-treated on the blue model

Moonphase on two hemispheres, moon made from genuine pieces of Moon meteorite

Movement Calibre 9914

In-house

Master-Chronometer certified

Hand-wound integrated chronograph with column wheel and vertical clutch

45 jewels

Co-axial escapement and silicon balance spring running at 4Hz

Two barrels mounted in series with 60h power reserve

Resistant to magnetic fields up to 15,000 Gauss

Hours, minutes, small seconds, date indication by hand at 9 o’clock, double moonphase at 6 o’clock, chronograph with 12-hour and 60-minute recorders at 3 o’clock

Bracelet Stainless steel “Nixon-style” bracelet, brushed and polished

Striated folding clasp with comfort setting

References 304.30.43.52.06.001 – blue

304.30.43.52.01.001 – black

Availability Permanent collection
Price EUR 18,800 (incl. taxes)

CHF 15,000 (excl. taxes)

USD 17,100 (excl. taxes)

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