Omega just released a new take on its Speedmaster with a vintage-inspired dial for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics that begins 100 days from now. Available in Moonshine Gold or stainless steel, the Speedmaster Chronoscope “Paris Olympics 2024” features a silver dial with black registers, along with solid gold numerals and gold-plated hands.

Initial thoughts

Omega is known for the many commemorative timepieces to mark the Olympics over the years, with the most recent one being Seamaster Diver 300m Paris Olympics Edition. A variety of Omega models have received the Olympics treatment, so the appeal really depends on the specific model, rather than the commemorative aspect.

The new Chronoscope certainly looks good, with the gold accents on the dial giving it a more vintage feel, particularly on the steel model. That version brings to mind mid-20th century chronographs that combine gilt hands and markers with contrasting steel cases.

With only the dial being unique to this edition, it remains chunky at 43 mm. Although large on paper, it is not all that large in reality, due to the short lugs of the Speedmaster case. I would imagine it to wear reasonably well on an averaged-sized wrist, given that the 42 mm Speedmaster Moonwatch wears well across most wrist sizes.

The new Chronoscope ranges from US$9,500 to US$51,400, depending on the metal and strap configuration. Although the value proposition is decent for the steel model, the Moonshine gold version is harder to justify at US$51,400, given that the competition, like the Rolex Daytona in gold, costs less.

Opaline “panda”

The new Chronoscope is equipped with a silver opaline dial featuring black counters. Both the registers and outer scale for the seconds are snailed. The applied hour numerals are solid 18k Moonshine gold, while the hands and markings on the registers are in Moonshine gold plating.

In traditional Speedmaster style, the dial is stepped on the periphery. Unlike typical Speedmaster dials, however, the Chronoscope includes a trio of timing scales in dark grey print: tachymeter, pulsometer, and telemeter.

The closed case back on the reverse is engraved with the Paris 2024 Olympics logo. Below sits the Co-Axial Master Chronometer cal. 9908/9909, which is certified by METAS for performance, accuracy, and magnetic resistance. A notable feature of the movement are the 60-minute and 12-hour counters combined in the three o’clock register.

The cals. 9909 and 9909 are identical, save for the balance bridge. Found only inside the gold model, the cal. 9909 has a solid 18k gold Sedna gold balance bridge.

Key facts and price

Omega Speedmaster Chronoscope “Paris Olympics 2024”
Ref. 522.60.43.51.02.001
Ref. 522.62.43.51.02.001
Ref. 522.30.43.51.02.001
Ref. 522.32.43.51.02.001

Diameter: 43 mm
Height: 13 mm
Material: 18k Moonshine gold; stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: Cal. 9908/9909
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and chronograph
Winding: Manual-winding
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Matching bracelet or black calf-skin leather strap

Limited edition: No
Availability: Available at Omega boutiques and retailers starting April 2024
Price: US$51,400 for Moonshine Gold on bracelet, US$32,700 for Moonshine Gold on strap; US$9,800 in stainless steel on bracelet, US$9,500 in steel on strap

For more, visit omegawatches.com