The Sapphire model gets polished accent links between the three large links and will bring a flair of presence to the watch that you may or may not appreciate. If you opt for the Hesalite Speedmaster you’ll get a fully brushed bracelet, and this is the single biggest shift in appearance that should be influencing your decision. It’s similar in feel to Rolex’s Jubilee style bracelet.

The construction is also top notch for a watch in the price range, easily forming over the wrist. It’s noticeable right off the bat and feels absolutely dapper on the wrist. First off, there’s dramatic taper from the 20mm lug span to the 15mm clasp. This bracelet is on point, and I have no doubt it will be the deciding factor for current owners on the fence about jumping to the new one. Upon first holding the new Speedmaster the one item that made the single biggest impression on me was the new bracelet. Some expected a ceramic execution for the bezel, with aluminum feeling almost like a novelty these days on watches in this price segment, but it’s a practical and welcome retention, as nothing prone to shattering would find itself accompanying astronauts on their journey. It’s a bit like AP returning their logo to 6 o’clock on the dial of the Jumbo: if you know, you know. The dot marking the number 90 on the tachymeter is placed above the number (more accurately, the number is placed below the dot), returning to its proper DON roots. The bezel insert remains aluminum, and the only change here is a big one for vintage enthusiasts. These are the types of small changes you don’t really see from a brand like Rolex, and signal a nod to heritage without taking a step back. It’s subtle, but the feeling is distinct. It opens the dial up just enough to release some of the tension seen in the prior model, and while I suspect this will be at the center of some debate among enthusiasts, it’s a welcome change in my book.Ī sharp eye will also notice a teardrop shape to the counterweight of the timing seconds hand, which again presents a bit softer than the squared off end of the outgoing model.Įach of these are small changes in their own right, but combine to create a clearly well thought out evolution to the Moonwatch. I know that sounds like a tiny change but the resulting effect is tangible.

It’s not a detail that jumps out at you but in the right light adds a lot of character to the dial.Īdditionally, the number of hashes between the minute marks has been cut in half, going from 4 to 2. First is the stepped dial, which makes its return to the Moonwatch after a near 50 year absence. Opting for the sapphire variant will get you an applied Omega mark, but the printed fits just fine in this application.Ī closer look and you’ll notice a few changes, however, that create a perceptible shift in the overall appearance of the watch. Thin pencil hands track against lumed hour bars with the stoic branding printed on at 12 o’clock. It’s classic Speedmaster with registers at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock each nestled into their recessed dish. A glance at the dial will reveal a very familiar looking scene.

Omega speedmaster moonwatch