The Omega Speedmaster is arguably one of the most recognisable mechanical sports watches in the world. As such, whenever the brand decides to launch a new variation of this classic model it’s kind of important they get it right. Fortunately for us, they usually do and the new Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Chronograph Master Chronometer due to be officially unveiled at Baselworld later this week is no exception.
The Speedmaster Moonphase Chronograph Master Chronometer
Presented in a 44.25mm x 16.85mm steel case the new Speedmaster Moonphase Chronograph Master Chronometer is definitely on the larger side of things when it comes to dressy sports watches. That being said, the larger case size does allow for the sun-brushed blue dial to be spread out just that tiny bit more, ensuring there is enough space for the impressive amount of indications this watch manages to pack in.
To start with there are the central hour and minute hands, with the small-seconds and date indicator shown on the sub-dial at 9 o’clock. Over on the opposite side the other sub-dial at 3 o’clock features a 60-minute and 12-hour, with a central chronograph seconds hand complemented by a ceramic bezel with liquidmetal inlay completing the timekeeping responsibilities.
At six o’clock we find the almost photo-realistic Moonphase indication, which is calibrated to 29.5 days and only requires correcting once every 10 years. If you look closely you will also notice a subtle nod to the Speedmaster’s heritage as the Moonwatch – there’s actually an astronaut’s footprint on the face of the Moon. Very cool.
Powering the Speedmaster Moonphase Chronograph Master Chronometer is the new 368-part Caliber 9904, complete with a silicon balance spring and co-axial escapement. The new movement offers a 60-hour power reserve and is COSC-certified as a chronometer. Omega has also taken things one step further however and had it METAS certified as well, hence the ‘Master Chronometer’ designation.
Essentially this means the movement has satisfied a number of additional tests which are supposed to represent everyday wearing conditions plus it has shown a suitable resistance to water and magnetic fields. Omega adopted the METAS certification standard back in 2014 although I’m not sure how much additional value it really adds on top of the original COSC certification.
To learn more about the new Speedmaster Moonphase Chronograph Master Chronometer please visit www.omegawatches.com. Otherwise stay tuned for more from Baselworld 2016 later this week.
