So, You Want an Omega Speedmaster: An introduction and guide into the world of pre-owned Speedmasters

 

StrapHabit readers: After reviewing StrapHabit's Men Wear Pink and FKM Ribbed Pass-Through straps for the WatchClicker website, contributor Furry Wrist Abroad graciously wrote a few guest posts for the StrapHabit blog. You'll find one them below that I think you'll enjoy!

-Nick

 

Dear readers,

Due to the release of the Omega x Swatch Moonswatch not too long ago, there has been a quiet but gradual rise of interest in used Omega watches from the general public. StrapHabit offers some of the best options for MoonSwatches on the market, and many of you come here as a result in search of better straps for these popular watches. These two articles focus on two popular models, the Seamaster and Speedmaster, and will offer you a brief guide as to what you can expect and what to potentially look for when shopping for a pre-owned Omega. 

A Renewed First Impression for Many:

Nearly three years ago, as the world was still coming to terms with how it could possibly return to any state resembling normalcy, Omega and Swatch released their highly successful MoonSwatch collaboration. This resulted in introducing the Speedmaster to the general public, who, over the last decade, had lost touch with watches in general due to always having the time available on their smartphones (you can click here for a comparison of the Speedmaster and Moonswatch).  

When first holding a Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, most, including myself, come away with the impression that the watch is perfect. This is due to its perfect dial proportions and flawless legibility. There is a good reason that the Moon Watch continues to be an incredibly strong seller. 

There is a fairly good chance that if you are looking for a pre-owned Speedmaster, you will more than likely be looking at the 3750.50.00 model, aka the standard Moon Watch. Nick wrote a wonderful review of its sapphire upgraded version, the 3753.50.00, here, and he covered the differences between the two models wonderfully. Upon your many searches, you may have encountered Speedmasters that also look entirely different from the traditional model. In order to serve you best, we will also look at two variants, which cover the extremes available - the third generation of the quartz-powered X-33 and the larger automatic calibre 9300 or 9900 powered column wheel chronographs. With more than ten years of experience in owning and spending time with these models, it is our hope to help guide you toward the perfect Speedmaster for your wrist.

The Differing Wearing Experiences on Offer:

The Speedmaster 3750.50.00 has been in production with slight variances since 1996. Thus, it will be the most bountifully available model and probably the best choice for most people looking at pre-owned examples. It uses a hesalite acrylic crystal, which gives the dial a warm glow, and it develops slight scratches over time. There is no reason to worry about these scratches, however. First, they add a wonderful character to the watch, giving it a vintage feel. Second, the crystal is incredibly easy to polish. All you need is some PolyWatch, and a microfibre cloth. For reference, I have not polished the crystal on my Speedmaster in over two years, for the hairline scratches do not bother me. On the wrist, the manual wind movement, a joy to operate, makes it possible for a surprisingly thin-wearing experience while beating away at a calming and crisp 3 Hz.

The quartz-powered X-33 model is the best choice for those of you who want near smartwatch functionality but without the invasive connectivity and monitoring that comes with such devices. Made from grade-five titanium, this watch disappears on your wrist even though it has a larger 45mm case. With a stopwatch, countdown timer, countdown bezel, three alarms, and multiple time zones, the X-33 will offer you the most functionality while still being a luxury timepiece. There are far fewer X-33s on the pre-owned market, but due to not being as highly desired, you can occasionally find good deals on them. The batteries on these timepieces will need to be changed every two years, but their battery life can be greatly extended by putting the watch into its sleep mode by pulling out the crown.

All this being said, Omega’s modern interpretation of the Speedmaster lies with their two-register models. Initially popularized a decade ago with the introduction of ceramic cases in their “Dark Side of the Moon” models, the steel variants are often overlooked. This is a shame, for their wearing experience is faultless for those with 6.75” and larger wrists. While wearing one of these models (reference 311.30.44.51.01.002 pictured here), you will notice their higher and more modern build quality versus a standard Moon Watch. For many, this would be enough reason to look at these models. Their longer power reserves, double water resistance at 100 metres, date window, and smoother chronograph operation make this the perfect option for most people. These watches are more expensive than the other two Speedies here, but you are getting your money’s worth in terms of build, materials, and functionality.

Conclusion:

 It is easy to be overwhelmed when looking at your first luxury watch, especially if it is a Speedmaster. Instead of following what may pass as conventional wisdom, ask yourself what is most important to you. If it is to have a piece of history that is as analogue as an experience one can have, the 3750.50 Speedmaster Professional is truly your best option. However, it is instantly recognizable by others, so this may either be a positive or a negative.

If you are coming from the world of smartwatches and demand more from your watch, the X-33 is certainly your best option and one that is rarely taken. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station are currently using these watches, so you know for a fact that these wrist-mounted instruments are built to perform and to last.

If you want the closest experience to the best that Swiss watchmaking can offer on a mass-produced level, the two register 9300 models will grant you a lifetime of joy. Upon their release, many compared this series of watches to the modern Rolex Daytona, and for good reason. Its modern mechanical movement and larger 44.25mm case size decidedly make this watch feel like a contemporary offering.

Omega’s strength in comparison to its competitors is its extensive catalogue. They make a watch for almost everyone, and this is true within their Speedmaster lineup. These three examples just scratch the surface but are the best place to start. Take a deeper look at all of the Speedmaster models, and I am sure you will find the perfect Speedmaster for you.

Reference Numbers:

Omega Speedmaster Professional: 3750.50

Omega Speedmaster Professional X-33 Solar Impulse Limited Edition: 318.92.45.79.03.001

Omega Speedmaster: 311.30.44.51.01.002