BLACK FRIDAY SALE: UP TO 15% OFF

Omega x Swatch Speedmaster Moonswatch Mission On Earth Desert Watch Review - SO33T103

July 15, 2024 Nick Lehner

In addition to the Polar Lights edition, recently Swatch released two other new Moonswatch variants under the Earth planet. I'm still hoping to get a Lava, but I was able to purchase this Desert edition at the Swatch boutique in Times Square recently.

If you're not familiar with the Swatch x Omega, I recommend reading the review of my first Moonswatch, the Mission to Mars review. There I discussed why I wanted the Mars version to help make up for big regret and how it might compared to a real Speedmaster. Or if you have a planet in mind, you can check out all Moonswatch reviews here.

If you'd like to learn about some other great watches under $500, you can read the StrapHabit Top 10 list, or view other reviews of watches under $500.

Moonswatch Mission On Earth Desert First Impressions

The sand-colored case combined with the light brown dial gives it a subtle, earthy look. Although Moonswatch models are intended to evoke Omega Speedmaster models, this one reminds me of the attractive Seamaster No Time to Die edition.

Although different, it looks most similar to the original Missions to Jupiter and Saturn models. It features a darker dial along with a few other updates. Check back soon for a comparison review.

Moonswatch Mission On Earth Desert Details

This version also features matching sand-colored rings around its recessed subdials. This provides a good blend of legibility and visual interest on the dial.

Under the macro lens, you can better see the desert inspiration. The sand-colored case has the appearance of small grains in it.

All Moonswatch versions have the same dimensions, Unlike the Mars, other variants like this Mission On Earth feature stick hands without lume for the chronograph subdial hands. The Arabic numbers on the desert's subdials are oriented in a radial format which Swatch says is "a nod to the Speedmaster Alaska II and III projects."

The tachymeter scale is color-coordinated with the dial and case, of course with the "dot over 90," another nod to vintage models.

Desert also features the same Swatch S engraved in the underside of the crystal as other Moonswatches, similar to the Omega Greek symbol you'd find on a "real" Moonwatch.

If you'd like some extra protection for your Moonswatch crystal, check out our Crystal Film Protection kids.

The crown is dual-signed to represent both brands.

Wearing the Moonswatch Mission on Earth Desert

Despite being on the larger side at 42mm wide (the same as a Speedmaster), all Moonswatch variants are quite comfortable due to the ergonomic case shape and low weight.

The sand hour and minute hands stand out against the taupe dial and create good legibility (although I still wish that they were thicker). The hour markers are easier to see than on other versions though, due to the dark dial color.

The lume is similar to other Moonswatch models and bright if a bit thin.

Moonswatch Mission On Earth Desert Original and Replacement Straps

The nylon Velcro strap is of the same design as other Moonswatches, this time in a color that Swatch calls "greige (taupe)" with "sand-colored topstitching." It's lightweight and comfortable if a bit bulky and cheap feeling.

I've been wearing it on several StrapHabit straps, and have found the khaki Ribbed Rubber Pass-Through to look great on it.

Here is a list of some other straps that would fit and we think look great with this watch. At the end of the article, you'll also find photos of some of our favorite combinations.
-Deployant Rubber
-Ridge Rubber
-Tropical Rubber
-Premium Sailcloth and Sailcloth Colorway Collection
-Smooth Rubber
-Rubber and Sailcloth Hybrid Straps
-Vented Rubber
-Slim Ridge Rubber
-Waffle Rubber
-Epsom Leather
-Elastic

Moonswatch Mission On Earth Desert Movement

All versions of the Moonswatch use the same Swatch quartz chronograph movement. And of course, the battery cover on the Earth features a photo of our home planet. I believe that all versions have the same text molded into the caseback.

The pump pushers are easy to operate.

Conclusion:

Although one of the less exciting new releases, the Moonswatch Desert is an attractive addition. The combination of sand and taupe, combined with the subdial rings give it an attractive look that I've enjoyed wearing.

To learn more about it, you can see it on the Swatch website here.

Specifications:

Name: Swatch x Omega Moonswatch Mission on Earth Desert
Reference Number: SO33T103
MSRP: $270
Diameter: 42mm
Height: 47.2mm
Thickness: 13.25mm
Lug Width: 20mm
Weight: 29g
Movement: Swatch Quartz Chronograph Movement
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Acrylic
Crown: Push-pull
Bezel: Fixed, tachymetre
Strap: Velcro