By Jovan Krstevski
Some of us remember that Omega launched the Speedmaster ’57 Co-Axial, at Baselworld 2013. This year, Omega introduces the slightly updated version of the Speedmaster ’57 Co-Axial Chronograph, a new family member that gets even closer to the legendary Speedmaster from 1957.
Inspired by the design of the first Omega Speedmaster from 1957, the Speedmaster ’57 has straight lugs extending from the watch case and the bracelet recalls that of the renowned chronograph. The size has remained the same, 41.5mm wide and 16.17 millimeters thick.
The first Omega Speedmaster from 1957
The slightly different black dial features two sub-dials instead of the three that are normally associated with the Speedmaster. This distinction is made possible by the placement of the 12-hour and 60-minute counters on the same sub-dial at 3 o’clock allowing a comfortable and intuitive chronograph reading. The second sub-dial at the 9 o’clock position keeps track of the passing seconds. The brushed steel bezel is easily recognisable with its familiar tachymeter scale.
The big difference between this compared and from the one that was released a couple of years ago, is the “Broad Arrow” hour hand, minute hand, markers and the colour of the Super-LumiNova from white to “vintage” green (faux patina).
Back in the 50s, Omega did probably not see the Speedmaster as a watch for use by NASA in space. This version of many other Speedmasters is very important, and the updated face-lift is surely welcomed. It seems like Omega and even most of the other brands and are looking back to what they have done before. It’s a bit like Hollywood, many of the new movies are remakes.
Powered by the in-house Co-Axial calibre 9300 – this is one of OMEGA’s exclusive Co-Axial calibres to incorporate a chronograph function with 60 hours of power reserve – the Speedmaster ’57 combines a vintage look and a revolutionary movement. This incredible Co-Axial movement is visible through the sapphire crystal caseback.
The reliability of the OMEGA Co-Axial calibre 9300 is so outstanding that the Speedmaster ’57 is delivered with a full four-year warranty and it is water-resistant to 10 bar (100 metres / 330 feet).
The Speedmaster ’57 OMEGA Co-Axial collection is a welcome addition to the great Speedmaster family. With its choice of styling, its advanced movement and carrying on its legendary name, it will find an enthusiastic following among Speedmaster fans who wish to honour the impressive legacy of an iconic chronograph by combining it with one of the best produced mechanical chronograph movement in the world. The Omega Speedmaster ’57 ‘Retro Dial’ will be available either on a brown leather strap with a brushed steel fold-over clasp, or on bracelet with a butterfly clasp. Price for the version on the steel bracelet will land on 7,500 USD. For more info, please visit omegawatches.com
Jovan Krstevski – Founder, Proprietor & Executive Editor
Watch collector, aficionado and an Event profile in the Swedish nightlife. He launched Watchgeek back in 2011, which is now known as WristReview and is one of the most widely read watch blogs on the Web. He quotes ’WristReview is a site to help people find, explore, discover and enjoy wristwatches.’ His passion for horology jump started in his early teens, when he was given his first mid-range wristwatch which was an Omega Seamaster. Since then he has always been in love with wristwatches! Besides WristReview, he also writes for a number of publications. P.S. He is also a huge fan of The Man of Steel/Superman. Read his articles here.