Omega Speedmaster Professional

When I first thought about writing the Omega Speedmaster Professional I was stumped. It’s a watch that probably many have worn, hundreds of enthusiasts have written reviews about (some even wrote books) and basically, it’s a timepiece that I wouldn’t have too much to write about which has not been covered yet.

Even though I don’t presently own one, I worn one in the past. So what could I have done in this situation where I didn’t have it, but had an idea of how it feels to wear one? Well, my best guess was to combine the new with the old and add a few extra spicy details about it and hope my readers would enjoy this review.

Omega Speedmaster Professional: The Moonwatch

Why is the watch referred to as such? Well, it’s because far back in nineteen sixty three, its processor was discussed as being used by NASA astronauts. From one mission to another, the watch has accompanied these brave astronauts in their successful and not so successful missions.

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Even though the watch was already getting famous, a critical point in its history was when astronaut Edward White decided to wear it outside his space suit in 1965. When you think about the conditions the watch has been put through, from searing hot to freezing cold temperatures, you can only gauge how much work was put into the build quality.

My Personal Watch

I know this watch ever since I purchased it in ’95. When I brought it home and opened it, I have to say I wasn’t ecstatic about it. Even though I saw it in the brochure, I found it a little odd looking and slightly larger than I had picture. I started wearing, obviously, and five years from that time, I wasn’t interested in buying another watch. It suited me perfectly, I’m really happy with the name on the dial and I feel it doesn’t need anything more to be a better watch.

The Case

The dimensions are the standard thirty nine millimeters across the bezel and thirteen point five millimeters in thickness. Given the design of the case sides, this one doesn’t seem as thick. Mine is the ’85 model that comes with 2 very slight differences to the model sold for the previous years.

The first difference is in the design of the case, which is a little different in what regards shape and cut. When viewed from the top, there would be less flat metal protruding for under the bezel on the crown side. If viewed from the side, you would notice a downward curve on the lugs. Second of all, it’s the accent of the “e” in the word “tachymeter”. The UK models didn’t have this for a very long time.

The Movement

In my example, the Omega Cal. eight six one is used. It’s basically a Lemania caliber that dates back some thirty years ago and it comes with seventeen beats and jewels at a relatively leisurely 21.600 bph. It’s practically a manual wind with a power reserve that lasts for around fifty hours. In what regards the chronograph, it’s a twelve hour variant with central seconds, a thirty minute register at three and a twelve hour register at six.

The Dial/Hands

This is where you’ll see this watch shine. You can easily see the time due to the legibility this watch has. You won’t find unnecessary accolades and markings with this watch, featuring matt black dials and matt painted hands. The hours are then completed by simple batons that for me, until this day, seem like the best chronograph dial ever created. It’s truly a magnificent watch I don’t see myself ever forgetting and I think I will purchase one very soon.

In conclusion, the Omega Speedmaster Professional is a refined, sturdy and historical watch you’ll find yourself proud to wear. It has the best chronograph in existence and I would love to have it on my wrist in any day of the week!