Omega reinforces its position as the custodian of horological spacefaring heritage with two compelling additions to the Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional collection, both housed within the contemporary 42 mm architecture that has defined the modern Moonwatch since its 2021 recalibration. The reference 310.30.42.50.01.004 in stainless steel and the reference 310.60.42.50.01.002 in 18K Moonshine gold represent Omega's continued commitment to the fourth-generation Speedmaster aesthetic that accompanied humanity's most audacious extraterrestrial expeditions, now enhanced with dual-sapphire construction and precious metal exclusivity that speak to contemporary collector expectations.
Things to Know About the Watches
Both new watches, reference 310.30.42.50.01.004 in stainless steel and reference 310.60.42.50.01.002 in Moonshine gold, feature 42 mm cases and are distinguished by the use of sapphire crystals protecting both dial and display case backs, departing from the usual Hesalite-front configuration that purists cite as historically accurate.
Omega finishes the ‘Reverse Panda’ dial configuration with a black varnish and lacquered double-plate step dial with white varnished and lacquered subdials set within rhodium-plated frames, creating a visual hierarchy that enhances legibility under varying light conditions. The applied Omega logo and indexes maintain manufacturing integrity, while the famous "dot over 90" marking on the black ceramic bezel ring preserves one of professional chronography's most recognizable design signatures.
The Moonshine gold reference 310.60.42.50.01.002 elevates the proposition with Omega’s proprietary 18K yellow gold alloy, formulated to resist tarnishing over decades. The sun-brushed 18K Moonshine gold step dial features blackened subdials and indexes creating dramatic contrast, while the black ceramic bezel ring incorporates an Omega Ceragold tachymeter scale—ceramic durability fused with precious metal detailing that exemplifies contemporary haute horlogerie.
Both polished case backs bear double bevels and the engraved inscription "FIRST WATCH WORN ON THE MOON," connecting each wearer to Buzz Aldrin's July 1969 lunar surface chronometry.
Both versions maintain the asymmetrical case architecture providing crown protection during extravehicular activities, a functional element that has become aesthetic orthodoxy within the Speedmaster lineage. With a water resistance rating of 50 meters, these are timepieces designed for atmospheric pressure variations rather than aquatic immersion. The polished-brushed five-arched-links-per-row bracelet demonstrates refined finishing, with individual links featuring polished center sections flanked by brushed outer surfaces and a comfort-fit clasp.
The Movement
At the heart of both timepieces is Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, a manually wound movement delivering 50 hours of power reserve through 26 jewels, beating at 21,600 vph. The 3861 succeeds the venerable 1861 with silicon Si14 balance springs, magnetic resistance exceeding 15,000 gauss, and METAS certification extending well beyond COSC chronometer standards.
Summary & Price
The steel reference 310.30.42.50.01.004 positions itself as modern interpretation unencumbered by vintage orthodoxy, while the Moonshine gold expression 310.60.42.50.01.002 delivers precious metal status without the white metal premium commanded by Omega's Canopus Gold offerings. Both demonstrate Omega's understanding of how to honor lunar legacy while accommodating contemporary expectations for movement performance, material quality, and finishing standards.
Sticker Price USD 10,400 for the steel reference and USD 49,300 for the Moonshine gold reference. For more info on Omega, click here.
