The Collector’s Guide to the Omega Speedmaster

Brief History of Omega

Omega is a brand synonymous with precision, innovation, and heritage in the world of horology. Founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Omega quickly established itself as a pioneer in watchmaking. The company gained global recognition for its groundbreaking advancements, including the introduction of the first-minute repeating wristwatch in 1892 and becoming the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games in 1932.

Among Omega's many achievements, the Speedmaster remains one of its most iconic timepieces. Introduced in 1957 as part of the Speedmaster Professional collection, it was initially designed for motorsport enthusiasts, featuring a tachymeter scale on the bezel for measuring speed. However, its destiny changed when NASA rigorously tested and selected it for its space missions. In 1969, the Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission, earning its legendary "Moonwatch" status. This enduring legacy, combined with its superior craftsmanship and versatility, has made the Speedmaster a must-have for serious collectors.

This guide explores the history, models, materials, features, and special editions of the Omega Speedmaster, showing collectors why it’s one of the most iconic watches ever made.

History of the Omega Speedmaster

The journey of the Omega Speedmaster began in 1957 when it was launched as a robust chronograph designed for professional use. The watch was distinguished by its innovative design, featuring a triple-register chronograph layout, high-contrast dial, and external tachymeter bezel. Initially intended for motorsports, the Speedmaster's precision and durability caught NASA’s attention.

After extensive testing, NASA officially certified the Speedmaster for spaceflight in 1965. Four years later, it made history when Buzz Aldrin wore his Speedmaster during the Apollo 11 mission, marking it as the first watch worn on the moon. This cemented its reputation as the "Moonwatch." Over the decades, the Speedmaster has seen numerous variations, each building on its legacy while incorporating modern advancements.

Variations of the Omega Speedmaster

Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch

The most iconic Speedmaster model, the Professional Moonwatch, has remained largely unchanged since its introduction. Featuring a manual-wind movement, Hesalite crystal, and a distinctive black dial with white hands and markers, it is the closest version to the one worn during the Apollo 11 mission. A solid gold version of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch has historically been gifted to astronauts post-Apollo XI, as well as to U.S. Presidents and Olympic athletes. In 1992, Omega produced a limited run of 999 watches commemorating the 30th anniversary of the 27 CHRO 12 movement.

Omega Speedmaster Reduced

The Speedmaster Reduced, also known as the Speedmaster Automatic, is often seen as the smaller sibling of the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch. With a 39mm case compared to the Moonwatch’s 42mm, it offers a more compact and comfortable fit, making it a great option for smaller wrists. Unlike the manually wound Moonwatch, the Speedmaster Reduced features an automatic movement, providing a more convenient and accessible alternative while still maintaining the classic Speedmaster design.

Omega Speedmaster Racing

Designed for motorsport enthusiasts, the Speedmaster Racing models feature vibrant color schemes, larger dials, and modern materials. Often equipped with automatic movements and additional complications such as date functions, these watches offer enhanced legibility with contrasting color combinations and luminous markers.

Omega Speedmaster Broad Arrow

A tribute to the original 1957 Speedmaster, the Broad Arrow models feature the signature broad arrow hands. The Omega Speedmaster Broad Arrow watches blend vintage aesthetics with contemporary advancements, making them highly sought after by collectors who appreciate heritage and modernity.

Omega Speedmaster 57

The Omega Speedmaster 57 collection pays homage to the original design with straight lugs and a brushed metal bezel. These models often feature updated movements and materials, offering a fusion of vintage charm and modern performance. A standout model includes a stainless steel tachymeter continuous with the case, a striking forest-green dial, and signed case, dial, and movement.

Omega Speedmaster Materials and Finishes

Stainless Steel: A durable and classic choice used in many Speedmaster models.
Sedna Gold: Omega's proprietary rose gold alloy, known for its luxurious appearance and resistance to fading.
Ceramic: Used in modern Speedmasters for its scratch resistance and sleek aesthetic.
Titanium: Lightweight and hypoallergenic, adding comfort and durability to select models.

Omega Speedmaster Watch Blue Side Of The Moon — Omega Speedmaster Moonphase "Blue Side Of The Moon" Reference 304.93.44.52.03.002

Omega Speedmaster Straps

Omega offers a range of strap options to complement the Speedmaster’s versatility:

Stainless Steel: Classic and durable, ideal for daily wear.
Leather: A more refined choice, offering a sophisticated appearance.
NATO Straps: Rugged and functional, popular for their durability and comfort.
Rubber Straps: Sporty and resilient, suited for active lifestyles.
Velcro Straps: Originally designed for astronauts, lightweight and highly practical.

Omega Speedmaster Features

Chronograph Function: Allows precise timekeeping and stopwatch functionality, essential for various professional uses.
Tachymeter Bezel: Enables the measurement of speed based on travel time, a key feature for motorsport enthusiasts.
Water Resistance: Offers protection for everyday wear and some water activities, enhancing the watch's durability.
Anti-Reflective Coating: Ensures readability in various lighting conditions by reducing glare on the crystal.
Luminous Hands and Markers: Improves legibility in low light conditions, a crucial feature for night-time use.
Manual and Automatic Movements: Provides options between traditional hand-winding mechanisms and modern self-winding technology.
Co-Axial Escapement: Featured in newer models, this technology reduces friction and improves accuracy and longevity.

Women's Omega Speedmaster Watches

Omega has expanded the Speedmaster line to cater to female collectors, offering models with smaller case sizes, diamond embellishments, and refined color options. The Speedmaster 38mm collection includes pastel dials and luxurious materials, combining elegance with the collection's signature technical excellence.

The Omega Speedmaster stands as one of the most enduring and celebrated timepieces in watchmaking history. Its unparalleled legacy, from motorsports to space exploration, coupled with its superior craftsmanship and versatile design, makes it a cornerstone of any collection. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance, innovative features, or timeless aesthetic, the Speedmaster represents more than just a watch—it embodies human achievement and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

How Much is an Omega Speedmaster?

The price of an Omega Speedmaster varies depending on the model, materials, and rarity. A stainless steel Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch typically retails for around $7,000 to $8,500, but limited editions and vintage references can command significantly higher prices. On the secondary market, collectors can expect to pay anywhere from $7,500 for pre-owned models to over $30,000 for rare and historically significant pieces. Special releases, such as gold or platinum versions, can range from $25,000 to well over $50,000, with auction results often pushing prices even higher.

Do Omega Speedmasters Hold Value?

Omega Speedmasters have a strong reputation for retaining their value, particularly models with historical significance or limited production runs. The enduring appeal of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch, combined with Omega's legacy in space exploration and horological innovation, ensures consistent demand. Vintage Speedmasters, especially pre-moon references or special editions, have appreciated significantly over time. While standard models may experience moderate depreciation initially, well-maintained or rare Speedmasters often appreciate in value, making them an attractive option for collectors and investors alike.

Advantages to Buying Omega Watches on the Secondary Market

1. Access

Sotheby’s provides exclusive access to a curated selection of Omega watches from its long established global network of sellers. As a leading marketplace, Sotheby's offers exceptional Omega timepieces, from iconic classics to rare references. Our watch specialists are dedicated to sourcing the most desirable Omega watch models from collectors around the world.

2. Flexibility

Sotheby’s offers multiple ways to purchase Omega watches, including online and in person at our locations in New York, Hong Kong, Paris, and London. We also provide a concierge service to help source specific Omega watch models not available online.

3. Value

While authorized Omega boutiques offer their latest collections, finding specific models—especially those with strong collector demand—can be challenging due to availability constraints. Sotheby’s presents a curated selection of Omega watches, including rare and discontinued references, available for purchase without the need to visit multiple retailers. Shopping with Sotheby’s ensures access to exceptional Omega timepieces, from vintage icons to modern grail watches, all authenticated by experts.

4. Discovery

One of the greatest advantages of shopping in a global luxury marketplace is the chance to discover unique, limited-production Omega watches no longer available at retail. Our curated selection of Omega watches is continuously refreshed, ensuring that you’ll always find something new and exclusive.

Buy and Sell Omega Watches at Sotheby's

Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest Omega watches available for immediate purchase, as well as through auctions held in New York, Paris, and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Omega models in every sale, including iconic pieces like the Omega Speedmaster, Omega Seamaster, and more in exceptional condition. Sotheby’s auctions feature an array of Omega timepieces, ranging from elegant vintage models to contemporary masterpieces, showcasing the brand’s unmatched craftsmanship and innovation.

Prices for Omega watches start around $6,000 for basic yellow gold and stainless steel models and rise significantly for highly sought-after pieces. Iconic models such as the Speedmaster and Seamaster often command starting prices of around $15,000, while rare collectible editions can exceed $100,000.

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