The Omega Speedmaster‘s status as an iconic watch is unquestioned. Holding the distinction of being the first watch worn on the moon tends to have that effect.
Omega certainly knows this, too, which is why the brand offers countless versions of the Moonwatch today in a variety of materials and colors. Still, most people, when it comes down to it, tend to prefer the classic Speedy: a black-on-black dial with a stainless steel asymmetric case and bracelet.
For those who want that iconic Moonwatch look but a feel that’s quite a bit more special, Omega has quietly just debuted the watch for you.
Known by the reference number 311.90.42.30.99.002, Omega’s latest Speedy is perhaps the ultimate expression of the Moonwatch — and one of the best examples of the “quiet luxury” trend I’ve ever seen in a watch.
Nothing But the Best
At a quick glance, this new Speedy looks like your standard Moonwatch. It has the classic asymmetric case and a three-link bracelet, both made of silver-colored metal, a black tachymeter bezel and a black-on-black dial. But it doesn’t take too much investigation to see that this is far more special than the entry-level Speedy.
Let’s start with the dial. The deep black color is the result of onyx, which Omega uses in two layers here to create the classic stepped dial. Next, we have meteorite subdials. This material is probably overused in the industry at this point, but I’ve always felt it belongs on a Speedy, the definitive space watch, more than any other watch. What’s more, the meteorite used here is from a lunar meteorite, directly tying this Moonwatch to the moon.