Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch - References, Prices and Owners' Reviews

The Omega Speedmaster, often called «Moonwatch», is one of the mechanical chronographs the most emblematic in watchmaking history. Launched at the end of the 1950s to meet the needs of drivers and motorsport enthusiasts, it especially became famous when the NASA selected it to accompany the astronauts on the Moon in 1969. Its timeless design – 42mm steel case, black dial with three counters, tachymeter bezel – and its manual winding movement give it a unique charm. Today, the Speedmaster remains both a symbol ofspace exploration and a versatile timepiece, appreciated for its robustness, precision and exceptional history.

History of the Omega Speedmaster

The Speedmaster was created in 1957. Originally, Omega conceives it as a sports chronograph intended for automobile racing, hence the presence of the tachymeter bezel allowing speed to be measured on a basis of 1000 meters. Its sober but effective design, marked by a large black dial, clearly readable counters and a robust steel case, quickly contributed to its success. Omega engineers then relied on a manually wound movement – ​​the legendary caliber 321 – already renowned for its precision and reliability.

At the beginning of the 1960s, the NASA, in full preparation for the Gemini space program, is looking for a reliable watch to equip its astronauts. An informal call for tenders led the Agency to test several models from different brands: they were subjected to extreme conditions (violent shocks, vibrations, temperatures ranging from -18°C to +93°C, depressurization, etc.). To everyone's surprise, only one watch manages to endure all these tests without fail: the Omega Speedmaster. It was officially approved in 1965 for all human space flights.

The historic moment occurred in July 1969, during the mission Apollo 11. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, equipped with their Speedmaster on their wrists, land on the lunar surface. During this spacewalk, it was Buzz Aldrin who wore the watch outside the lunar module (Armstrong having left his on board). Thus, the Speedmaster becomes the first watch worn on the Moon, forever earning the nickname «Moonwatch». This feat seals the reputation of the Speedmaster as one of the most robust and precise watches in the world.

After the lunar episode, the Speedmaster continued to shine in other space missions. We find it during Apollo 13, where it is used to accurately time the ignition duration of the engines in order to correct the trajectory of the damaged module. Without the help of the Speedmaster, the outcome of the mission could have been completely different. This reliability, combined with the fascinating story of the conquest of space, propels the Speedmaster to the rank of absolute icon.

On the aesthetic level, the watch undergoes gradual evolutions, but theoriginal DNA (black dial with three sub-counters, tachymeter bezel, steel case measuring approximately 42mm) remains almost unchanged. The movements evolved: caliber 321 gave way to caliber 861 in 1969, then caliber 1861 in the 1990s, up to the most recent caliber 3861, introduced by Omega to further improve precision and magnetic resistance. Despite these updates, the Speedmaster preserves most of its distinctive features, which appeals to both purists in love with authenticity and newcomers looking for a model. mythical.

Today, the Speedmaster is no longer limited to the “Moonwatch Professional” version. Several versions are being released (hesalite or sapphire glass, case in steel, gold, or even high-tech materials), as well as numerous limited editions commemorating this or that space anniversary or major event. But they all retain the same heritage, that of a watch designed for adventure and precision, and which left an indelible mark on the conquest of space.

Main technical characteristics of the Speedmaster Moonwatch

Hand-wound movement

Caliber 321 (historical), 861, 1861 or more recently 3861. All share the same philosophy: reliability, emotional connection reinforced by manual winding, and above-average precision. The transition to caliber 3861 notably brings Master Chronometer certification and better resistance to magnetism.

Steel case (42mm)

The 42mm diameter, inherited from the 1960s, remains the signature of the Speedmaster “Moonwatch”. Made from stainless steel, it features polished and brushed finishes, and straight or lyre horns depending on the generation. The general architecture has changed little to preserve the authenticity of the design.

Tachymeter bezel

Flagship element for measuring speed over 1000m. Often in black aluminum, sometimes in ceramic on certain contemporary versions for greater resistance to scratches. A nod to the initial “motor racing” vocation of the Speedmaster.

Hesalite or sapphire glass

The “Professional” version adopts hesalite glass validated by NASA, known for its curved appearance and vintage look. Omega also offers a “Sapphire Sandwich” variant including transparent back and sapphire crystal, which is more scratch-resistant.

Three-counter dial

Small seconds at 9 o'clock, 30-minute totalizer at 3 o'clock and 12 hours at 6 o'clock. Indexes and hands often covered with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent visibility. “Speedmaster” logo and signature within 12 hours, faithful to the aesthetic of the 1960s.

Waterproofing and daily use

Around 50m, sufficient for everyday activities (rain, hand washing), even if the watch is not designed for diving. Robust and versatile, it retains a “tool” DNA adapted to many situations.

Bracelet and personalization

The steel bracelet remains the most classic configuration. Other options, such as leather or NATO, allow you to vary the style, from the most elegant to the most casual. This personalization makes it easier for each enthusiast to take ownership of the watch.

Customer reviews 

Feedback regarding the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch underline several recurring points: spatial heritage, construction reliability, comfort and emotional appeal. Here is a summary of the feelings shared by many owners.

Emotion and historical heritage
Many people talk about the “watch that walked on the Moon”, seeing the Speedmaster as a strong symbol of human exploration. Owning this object steeped in history provides a feeling of pride and fascination for the conquest of space.

Mechanical movement and daily winding
Manual winding, an essential gesture to activate the movement, is seen as a pleasant ritual. Some, however, prefer the automatic for greater practicality, but most appreciate this direct link with watchmaking tradition.

Wearing comfort and readability
Despite its diameter of 42mm, the Speedmaster is comfortable thanks to the shape of its lugs and its weight distribution. The contrasts of the black dial and white hands are also popular, offering excellent readability.

Bracelets and versatility
The ability to change straps (steel, leather, NATO, etc.) gives the Speedmaster a wide variety of uses. It can easily go from a sporty look to a dressier style or from an everyday outfit to an adventurous getaway.

Reliability and maintenance
Owners emphasize the solidity of the movement, provided that the recommended revisions are respected. The waterproofness (50m) is considered sufficient for everyday life, even if diving remains not recommended.

Value for money and iconic aura
Finally, a consensus emerges on the fact that the Speedmaster offers consistent value for money for a chronograph with such a rich history. Its iconic status also gives it a much appreciated emotional and heritage value.

Ultimately, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is not limited to its role as a reliable chronograph: it represents a part of space history and embodies a pioneering spirit which continues to seduce several generations of enthusiasts.

(Updated January 2025)