RELEASED: Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition

It’s finally here! The highly anticipated 50th anniversary was finally released and not without mixed reactions. This had been one of the most awaited watch after Omega released the re-issued gold Speedmaster and the rumored production of the 321 Caliber.

Watch Details

Model : 310.20.42.50.01.001
Price in AU: $13,175.00
Between lugs: 20 mm
Bracelet: steel
Case: Steel
Case diameter: 42 mm
Dial colour: Yellow
Crystal: Flat scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with anti‑reflective treatment on both sides
Water resistance: 5 bar (50 metres / 167 feet)

Initial Reaction

There has been a mixed to positive reaction based from various online forums and I agree with some of them. First, the gold and black accents blends well. This reminds some of the Tudor BB58 and I couldn’t agree more. Second, the bracelet is an interesting one. Some are actually hoping that this can be purchased separately as well. Third, the second dial reminds them of the previous Apollo missions. Lastly, the decision to move away from the 1861 caliber to the upgraded modern Master Co-Axial Calibre 3861.

The topic I want to quickly mention is the move to the 3861 calibre. This is a good if not the best opportunity to move away from the old 1861, but at the same time I feel conflicted. The purist would say this is not what the speedmaster is, but Omega has to move forward and I couldn’t agree more with the choice of movement. Moving forward with the more common speedmaster, the rumour is that it’s going to be the upgraded 3861 movement as well.

The upgrade is not without its merits. Co-axial escapement and a silicon balance spring and is Master Chronometer certified by METAS. In addition, this is also resistant to magnetic fields reaching 15,000 gauss. These are very substantial improvements making the 3861 worthy of being called an improvement. However, another nitty-gritty to note that Omega removed the “Flight Qualified By NASA” status on the caseback as the 3861 is not qualified yet even though it’s an upgrade. On the other hand, Omega can always make the 3861 available only for special models.

Movement

Reference: 3861
Base: Lemania 1873
Movement: Handwound
Display: Analog
Diameter: 27.00
Jewels: 26
Reserve: 50
Frequency: 21600
Chronograph: Chronograph
Hands: Small Seconds, Hours, Minutes
Additionals: Chronometer

For more information, visit the omega website. Images are all taken from the Omega website. Movement information taken from Watchbase.