From The Sea To The Moon: Our Four Favorite 2019 Omega Novelties
At Swatch Group's #TimeToMove event, assembled press experienced an immersive encounter which saw Omega shooting for the stars.
Omega unveiled its new collection on the morning of the first day, in a large entrance hall of its assembly factory in Biel. One of the most highly anticipated releases of the week, of course, was the 50th Anniversary limited-run Speedmaster Apollo 11 timepiece. A special commemorative edition (of 6969 pieces) featuring a stainless steel case mounted with an 18K Moonshine Gold and ceramic bezel.
THE Speedmaster
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Apollo 11 50th Anniversary piece sees updates to its movement, case, and dial. Powered by a cutting-edge Omega 3861 manual-winding calibre with Co-Axial escapement. The talking point with this piece is the 9 o’clock subdial depicting Buzz Aldrin climbing out of the Eagle LEM. Presented on a classic brushed steel bracelet, the Limited Edition offering comes with a cork-lined Velcro strap. Retro chic with modern finishes.
The remarkable caseback includes an engraving of the footprint Neil Armstrong impressed on the surface of the moon, as well as the words he impressed upon the world: “THAT’S ONE SMALL STEP FOR A MAN” and “ONE GIANT LEAP FOR MANKIND”. With only 6969 pieces in production, this chronograph commemorating the 50th anniversary of the moon landing should be sought after by collectors. Priced at $9,650 USD.
The Seamaster Evolved
Another new novelty expected to have broad popular appeal is the Seamaster Diver 300 in black ceramic and titanium. This 43.5mm reference is waterproof to 300 meters, made of technical ceramic, and sporting a titanium unidirectional rotating bezel with a ceramic hoop whose figures have been filled with white enamel. The ceramic dial is embellished with a raised image of waves, and the ensemble is powered by an automatic caliber Omega Master Chronometer Cal. 8806 tested and certified by Metas.
The piece, designed to withstand extreme situations and the wearers who encounter those situations, is equipped with the closing system NAIAD LOCK. In addition to guaranteeing total impermeability of the instrument, this further ensures the correct positioning of the markings on the bottom. This rugged model is presented on a natural rubber bracelet with buckle closure, with an optional NATO-type bracelet included in the set. Priced at $8,100 USD.
A Worldtimer We Weren't Expecting
The Seamaster Aqua Terra Worldtimer was designed to meet the expectations of frequent travelers. All dressed in steel, this reference of 43 mm in diameter carries an Omega Master Chronometer Caliber 8938 automatic caliber with the complication of hours of the world on which appears the city of Bienne at GMT +1 in place of Paris or Geneva, a cheeky reminder to the watch’s future owner of where it was built.
In the center of the dial, enthusiasts will appreciate the treatment that has been made of the Earth and especially the care given to the cutting which makes it possible to bring out titanium worked in temperature thanks to a laser process, colors that give the whole a little something unreal and incredible strength to this watch whose idiosyncratic appearance will not soon be forgotten by anyone who sees it – Nor by anyone who receives it. A starting price of $8,900 on rubber strap.
A Tresor For Him
Wrapping up on a more elegant note: city dwellers in particular should feel drawn to this sleek, attractive Omega 18K gold Sedna Trésor. Very finely sketched, this gorgeous 40mm-diameter watch will be irresistible to timepiece fanatics looking for a more dressed-up accessory. This watch is meticulously designed: its grand feu enamel dial is accompanied by an 8929 manual caliber Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber with a balance crafted in Sedna gold. Priced at $13,800 USD.