Diversity is arguably a strength – and a weakness – of the Speedmaster – and Omega is proving this with the Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite. In contrast to the recent military-inspired Speedy, the latest model goes for exotic materials:  the dial is made of lunar meteorite finished in either grey or black, while the moon phase sports twin moons similarly fashioned from meteorite.

The moon phase display is a double moon that depicts the age of the moon in both the northern and southern hemispheres. Completing the celestial scene, the stars on the moon phase disc replicate the night sky when Apollo 11 landed on the Moon in 1969, as observed from Omega’s headquarters in Biel.

Initial thoughts

Maybe the new Speedmaster is an ironic reference to the “Moonwatch” nickname. In fact, it doubles the Moon reference with Moon meteorite fragments and the moon phase. But does the Speedmaster need to be dressed up with a moon phase and meteorite?

Intrinsically, the new model has a few things going for it. The in-house movement inside is one of Omega’s top-of-the-line chronograph calibres. And it also has a scaled-down case that improves wearability. Now 43 mm, the watch has a more compact form than its chunky 44.25 mm predecessor.

Despite the in-house movement and liberal use of meteorite, the Speedmaster Moonphase still feels pricey with a retail of US$17,100. That said, most recent Speedmaster models are expensive – this costs only US$1,500 more than the Speedmaster Calibre 321 “Ed White”, reflecting the overall state of the market.

Lunar rock

The Speedmaster is equipped with a range of complications beyond the basic chronograph. A single sub-dial at three o’clock contains both the 12-hour and 60-minute chronograph counters, while the small seconds and pointer date are placed at nine o’clock.

Taking centerstage at six o’clock is the moon phase, now in double moon format. Each applied Moon is  lunar meteorite in “cabochon” form, giving the Moon a domed surface.

Powering the watch is Omega’s proprietary manual-winding cal. 9914 beating at 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz). Offering 60 hours of power reserve, the movement employs a vertical clutch and column wheel for the chronograph.

The cal 9914 is METAS-certified, which entails magnetism resistance of up to 15,000 gauss thanks to a silicon hairspring and non-magnetic escapement.

Key facts and price

Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite
Ref. 304.30.43.52.01.001

Diameter: 43 mm
Height: 13.6 mm
Material: Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: Cal. 9914
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, pointer date, moon phase and chronograph
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Winding: Manual-wind
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Steel bracelet

Limited edition: No
Availability: Now at Omega boutiques and retailers
Price: US$17,100

For more, visit omegawatches.com