In January 2025, Omega unveiled the Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite, a timepiece that seamlessly blends the brand’s storied lunar heritage with contemporary watchmaking artistry. This release introduces two distinct models, each featuring genuine meteorite elements and a newly developed hand-wound movement, the Caliber 9914. The watches are available in black and gray dial variations, both housed in a 43mm stainless steel case.
The Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite stands out with its unique dial crafted from iron meteorite, ensuring that no two watches are identical due to the natural patterns inherent in the material. The black dial version boasts a black PVD-coated meteorite surface complemented by 18K white gold hands and hour markers. In contrast, the gray dial variant features a galvanic gray-coated meteorite dial set against a blue PVD-coated base, with blue PVD-coated 18K gold hands enhancing its visual appeal.
A notable feature is the moonphase indicator at the 6 o’clock position, showcasing two lunar meteorite cabochons representing the moon’s phases as viewed from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The starry backdrop mirrors the night sky observed from Biel, Switzerland, on July 21, 1969, the date of the Apollo 11 Moon landing.
Powering this timepiece is Omega’s newly developed hand-wound Caliber 9914. This movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a 60-hour power reserve. As a Master Chronometer certified by METAS, it ensures precision with an average daily accuracy of 0 to +5 seconds and boasts antimagnetic properties up to 15,000 gauss. The chronograph function utilizes a column-wheel mechanism, and the movement features Omega’s Co-Axial escapement. The sub-dial at 3 o’clock combines the minute and hour chronograph counters, while the 9 o’clock sub-dial houses the running seconds and date indicator.
The 43mm stainless steel case has a thickness of 13.6mm and a lug-to-lug measurement of 48.6mm, making it slightly larger than the traditional Speedmaster Professional. Both models feature a ceramic bezel insert with a white enamel tachymeter scale. The watches are paired with Omega’s “Nixon” stainless steel bracelet, characterized by its combination of brushed and polished links. The folding clasp incorporates Omega’s easy-adjustment system, allowing for a comfortable fit on the wrist.
The Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite is priced at $17,100 USD. This represents approximately a 50% premium over the existing automatic Speedmaster Moonphase models without meteorite dials. For comparison, Omega’s Constellation models with meteorite dials carry a 32% premium over their standard counterparts. The higher premium for the Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite may be attributed to the inclusion of lunar meteorite elements and the new hand-wound movement.
The Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite is a testament to Omega’s dedication to innovation and its deep-rooted connection to lunar exploration. By incorporating genuine meteorite materials and introducing a new hand-wound movement, Omega offers a timepiece that appeals to both watch enthusiasts and collectors. While the premium pricing may be a consideration for some, the unique features and craftsmanship of this model underscore its value within the Speedmaster lineage.
What are your thoughts on the new Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite?
(photo credit: Omega / www.omegawatches.com)
Design and Aesthetics
The Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite stands out with its unique dial crafted from iron meteorite, ensuring that no two watches are identical due to the natural patterns inherent in the material. The black dial version boasts a black PVD-coated meteorite surface complemented by 18K white gold hands and hour markers. In contrast, the gray dial variant features a galvanic gray-coated meteorite dial set against a blue PVD-coated base, with blue PVD-coated 18K gold hands enhancing its visual appeal.
A notable feature is the moonphase indicator at the 6 o’clock position, showcasing two lunar meteorite cabochons representing the moon’s phases as viewed from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The starry backdrop mirrors the night sky observed from Biel, Switzerland, on July 21, 1969, the date of the Apollo 11 Moon landing.
Movement and Technical Specifications
Powering this timepiece is Omega’s newly developed hand-wound Caliber 9914. This movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a 60-hour power reserve. As a Master Chronometer certified by METAS, it ensures precision with an average daily accuracy of 0 to +5 seconds and boasts antimagnetic properties up to 15,000 gauss. The chronograph function utilizes a column-wheel mechanism, and the movement features Omega’s Co-Axial escapement. The sub-dial at 3 o’clock combines the minute and hour chronograph counters, while the 9 o’clock sub-dial houses the running seconds and date indicator.
Case and Bracelet
The 43mm stainless steel case has a thickness of 13.6mm and a lug-to-lug measurement of 48.6mm, making it slightly larger than the traditional Speedmaster Professional. Both models feature a ceramic bezel insert with a white enamel tachymeter scale. The watches are paired with Omega’s “Nixon” stainless steel bracelet, characterized by its combination of brushed and polished links. The folding clasp incorporates Omega’s easy-adjustment system, allowing for a comfortable fit on the wrist.
Pricing and Availability
The Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite is priced at $17,100 USD. This represents approximately a 50% premium over the existing automatic Speedmaster Moonphase models without meteorite dials. For comparison, Omega’s Constellation models with meteorite dials carry a 32% premium over their standard counterparts. The higher premium for the Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite may be attributed to the inclusion of lunar meteorite elements and the new hand-wound movement.
Conclusion
The Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite is a testament to Omega’s dedication to innovation and its deep-rooted connection to lunar exploration. By incorporating genuine meteorite materials and introducing a new hand-wound movement, Omega offers a timepiece that appeals to both watch enthusiasts and collectors. While the premium pricing may be a consideration for some, the unique features and craftsmanship of this model underscore its value within the Speedmaster lineage.
What are your thoughts on the new Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Meteorite?
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