Omega Speedmaster vs Seamaster: Battle of Two Omega ICONS

Omega is one of the most famous luxury watch brands on the market right now. Thanks to their historical significance and prominence in numerous fields, Omega is a recognizable presence. As a brand, Omega has numerous models in its extensive catalog, each one exemplifying its watchmaking expertise. 

Two particular models that stand out are the Omega Speedmaster and Seamaster. When someone is looking into buying an Omega for themselves, they are most likely looking at these two models. Indeed, who could resist the history, heritage, and luxury of these models? Today, we’ll be going over what makes the Speedmaster and Seamaster special and help you decide which watch is the right one for you. 

About the Omega Speedmaster 

The Omega Speedmaster has achieved legendary status due to its association with space. However, the Speedmaster was originally designed to be a sports and racing-themed chronograph. As the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games, Omega needed to supply accurate timepieces that measured everything down to the very millisecond. 

All Speedmasters have a chronograph feature, a tachymeter bezel, and two lumed pips at 12 o’clock. The Speedmaster became forever associated with space when these watches accompanied astronauts like Ed White and Buzz Aldrin on their missions to space. Ever since Buzz Aldrin landed on the lunar surface and famously uttered “One small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,” the Speedmaster has been deemed the “Moonwatch.” 

A person who is looking at a Speedmaster probably has heard of the stories behind this legendary watch and wants to be a part of the history. There’s a saying in the watch community that no collection is complete without a Speedmaster. Given how iconic this watch is, a Speedmaster is an amazing centerpiece to any collection. With how many editions of the Speedmaster there are, Omega has a watch for anyone. 

About the Omega Seamaster 

The Seamaster lineup is a testament to Omega’s long association with the ocean. Omega has produced the Seamaster since 1948 when it took design cues from watches worn by the British Royal Navy. The Seamaster was made to be as water-resistant as possible and utilized technology like a sealed O-ring gasket to achieve higher water resistance. 

The idea behind an O-ring gasket was inspired by the submarines at the time. Famous divers throughout history have worn the Omega Seamaster, including Jacques-Yves Cousteau, a pioneer in the field of modern diving. 

More popularly, however, many people know this watch as James Bond’s personal watch. The Omega Seamaster was first seen in the James Bond film Goldeneye and has appeared in nearly every Bond movie since. The Seamaster has undergone great changes in the films and has evolved alongside Bond. The latest Speedmaster in “No Time to Die” is a culmination of every evolution the Speedmaster has gone through. 

A Seamaster is a great choice for both people who love the water and also Bond fans. This super sleek sports watch is an amazing tool that is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Just like the Speedmaster, there are numerous versions of the Seamaster. The right one is definitely out there for you! 

Omega Speedmaster vs Seamaster: Which One Should You Choose?

Now comes the very important question: Do I pick a Speedmaster or a Seamaster? We’ll describe these watches’ various features to help you decide. For comparison purposes, we’ll use the current version of the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch (ref. 310.30.42.50.01.001) and the current Omega Seamaster Diver 300M (ref. 210.30.42.20.03.001).

Functions

The Moonwatch is a chronograph reminiscent of its early days as a racing-themed watch. The pushers on the right side of the dial are the same design as the original watch. The dial features a small seconds, a 30-minute scale, and a 12-hour indicator. Around the bezel is a tachymeter, which can be used to measure speed and distance. 

The Seamaster shows the hour and minute along with a sweeping seconds hand. The rotating bezel is a diving bezel used to measure elapsed time. At the 6 o’clock position is a laser-cut date window. There is also a conical helium escape valve at the 10 o’clock position. 

Build Quality

Build quality is without question one of the greatest features of both of these watches. Omega’s careful attention to detail is evident in how sharp and clean the dials and cases are. The bracelets are both engineered for comfort and reliability. The biggest difference between these two models is the choice of material. 

The Moonwatch we are comparing today is a faithful recreation of the original. Therefore, it has an aluminum bezel and a domed Hesalite crystal. These materials are not as durable as ceramic, sapphire, or stainless steel. Over time, there will be more scratches and other marks on this Moonwatch. The Moonwatch is also only water-resistant to 50 meters, or 167 feet. 

The Seamaster is made with modern materials and is a serious dive watch. It is all stainless steel with a hardened ceramic bezel and a white enamel diving scale. The wavy pattern on the dial is laser-cut and extremely precise. The hands are plated with rhodium and filled with bright Super-LumiNova. The hour markers are sharp, shined, and also filled with Super-LumiNova. As a dive watch, it is water-resistant to 300 meters or 1000 feet. 

Movements

The Moonwatch is powered by the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, while the Seamaster is powered by the Omega Master Chronometer Calibre 8800. The 3861 beats at 21600 vph and has a power reserve of 50 hours. The 8800 beats higher at 25200 vph and has a slightly higher 55-hour power reserve. 

Both movements have Omega’s Co-Axial technology, are resistant to magnetic fields reaching 15,000 gauss, and are certified as Master Chronometers by METAS. The 3861 is hand-winding, while the 8800 is automatic. 

Price & Availability

The Moonwatch is currently $6,600 on Omega’s website, while the Seamaster is listed at $5,600. Where does that extra $1,000 come from? Perhaps Omega wants the Moonwatch to appear more exclusive and valuable compared to the Seamaster. It can also charge more for its history, demand, and status. 

One of the biggest differences is the fact that the Moonwatch features the chronograph complication, which tends to demand higher prices than time-only watches like the Seamaster. Both watches are ready and available for purchase at any Omega authorized dealer. As these are not limited edition models, there will be enough supply for everyone to enjoy their very own Omega icon. 

Value Retention & Investment

In terms of holding value, both of these watches are desirable models that are very good investments. The Moonwatch, in particular, is extremely popular and holds its value well in the secondary market.

Because of its iconic status and history, the Moonwatch is a highly collectible timepiece. It may even increase in value as other Omega models are released. I would feel confident knowing that my Moonwatch is a special piece that will be valuable for a long time to come. 

Other Notable Omega Speedmaster & Seamaster Models

Apart from the standard versions of the Omega Speedmaster and Seamaster, there are also a few other significant models within these two families.

Omega Speedmaster Calibre 321 “Ed White” (ref. 311.30.40.30.01.001)

Ed White was the first American to ever walk in space and wore an Omega Speedmaster while doing so. The Omega 321 was the workhorse behind this iconic watch, and this Speedmaster reissue keeps the spirit of this movement alive.

Omega released this non-limited edition model as a tribute to the famous watch worn by Ed White, and it is a blend of historical authenticity and modern improvements. For example, the 321 movement is faithfully recreated and accurate down to the very last detail. The only change is swapping the copper finish for a more modern and stable Sedna gold.

This material is a fine Omega creation, crafted out of 18kt gold and other metals to create a durable and shiny material. Thanks to the sapphire glass caseback, the movement can be seen in all its glory. Other modern luxuries include the sapphire crystal, ceramic bezel, and a buttery-smooth chronograph.

Omega Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” (ref. 310.32.42.50.02.001)

The Silver Snoopy Award is a prestigious award given to astronauts who have contributed significantly to the field of space exploration. Snoopy, Charlie Brown’s adorable and mischievous companion, has long been recognized as a mascot for NASA and its space missions.

This very special edition of the Omega Speedmaster is a true standout among other Speedmasters. The blue and white color scheme really makes the watch pop. The matching blue nylon strap also perfectly complements the watch. Of course, the main star of the show is Snoopy, and he can be found in two places.

First, on the 9 o’clock sundial, where Snoopy is happily grinning in a spacesuit, with the words “50th Anniversary” just above him. Second, he is found on the caseback, which is indeed very interesting. Snoopy is found circling the moon in a tiny spaceship, with the Earth also rotating in the background. Snoopy and the Earth rotate on discs as the watch is running. Snoopy rotates with the chronograph, while the Earth rotates once a minute with the second hand. 

Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon (ref. 311.92.44.51.01.003)

This striking, sporty, all-black ceramic Speedmaster is luxurious in every sense of the word. The hands are made of 18kt white gold, the dial and most of the case are made of hardened black ceramic, and the Omega Caliber 9300 powers the watch. The all-black color scheme, splashes of red, and shiny white hour markers really help this watch stand out. 

The sapphire display caseback shows off the self-winding chronograph movement, complete with Omega’s signature Co-Axial escapement. Just above the sapphire crystal display caseback are the words “Dark Side of the Moon,” referring to the side of the moon not visible during rotation.

The case diameter is 44mm, and the thickness is 16.1mm. The sloped lugs conform to the shape of the wrist and make this very special Speedmaster comfortable and easy to wear. 

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra (ref. 220.10.41.21.03.001)

The Aqua Terra line is a dressy series of sports watches that exemplify Omega’s maritime history and dedication to creating amazing timepieces. These models are lightweight, durable, and feel great on the wrist. This particular reference has a beautiful sunburst blue dial.

The horizontal lines on the dial remind wearers of the wooden deck of a sailboat. The light blue accents on the text and every quarter-hour marker provide a wonderful contrast to the dial. Every hour marker is sharply finished and radiates in the sunlight.

The stainless steel bracelet feels like velvet and is a combination of brushed and polished finishes. The Omega Caliber 8900 maintains the highest level of accuracy and is even COSC-certified. 

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean (ref. 215.30.44.21.01.002)

This stylish Seamaster is an exceptional dive watch with impressive specs to back it up. With water resistance up to a huge 600 meters, or 2000 feet, no dive is too deep for this amazing watch. The helium escape valve, an Omega signature feature, is prominently featured at the 10 o’clock position.

It is a legacy addition to this dive watch that is made of premium materials. These materials include the polished black ceramic bezel and the new Liquidmetal diving scale. Liquidmetal is an Omega invention that blends ceramic and metal to create an ultra-durable and resistant material. 

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M “No Time To Die” (ref. 210.90.42.20.01.001)

Omega are masters at marketing their watches, and eager James Bond fans will be delighted to see this very special Seamaster available for purchase. Featured prominently in the latest James Bond film “No Time to Die” and worn by leading man Daniel Craig, this particular Seamaster is Bond’s faithful companion as he races around the world. 

The Grade 2 titanium construction makes this watch extremely light and comfortable to wear. Adding to this comfort is the fact that this model is slightly thinner than other Seamasters due to the shape of its sapphire crystal. 

The dial and bezel are a dark chocolate color with light patina-colored lettering. At the 6 o’clock position is the broad arrow symbol, a mark of the British Armed Forces. There are several strap options, including a milanese bracelet with an adjustable buckle or a specially colored striped NATO strap. Any agent would do well with this incredible watch!

Conclusion

Omega is beloved for a reason. Their influence in so many different fields, including space, films, and diving, makes this brand a recognizable status symbol. Any Omega on your wrist is going to be expertly crafted and a testament to the brand’s dedication to creating amazing timepieces. The Speedmaster and Seamaster show off Omega’s best qualities, including its history, heritage, quality, and value.