I’ve always been fascinated by the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch. It’s just such a classic, iconic piece. So, I finally decided to pull the trigger and get one for myself. I did a bunch of research beforehand, you know, just to make sure I knew what I was getting into and avoid buying a fake or something, because the price is high.
First off, I started looking at a bunch of pictures online and comparing different models. I noticed that the real deal always has really crisp printing on the dial, and the layout is super consistent. Then I learned about the hallmarks and serial numbers – where they should be, what they should look like. Those are big clues to figure out if a watch is the real thing. Also, I spent a lot of time just feeling out the watches that my friend has. The genuine ones have this smooth, refined finish. It’s hard to describe, but it just feels solid and well-made.
The dial has three little sub-dials. It is easy to recognize. On the right, at 3 o’clock, that’s the 30-minute counter. At 6 o’clock, you’ve got the 12-hour counter. And over at 9 o’clock, that is the second hand sub-dial. This layout is a big part of what makes the Speedmaster so recognizable.
Then, I realized there are actually different versions of the Speedmaster. There is this “Speedmaster Reduced” or “Speedmaster Automatic” that winds itself. But that’s not what I wanted. I wanted the classic, manually-wound Moonwatch. Size was another thing. My wrists are not small, and I wanted a watch that had some presence.
And I made a list of what I absolutely needed: it had to be a Speedmaster Professional, with that Moonwatch history, and I preferred the hesalite crystal because it just feels more authentic to me.
There are also those with an automatic movement and a manual movement, I opted for the classic hand-wound.
My Decision
After all that, I decided to go for the classic Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch with the sapphire crystal. It’s the one that feels right to me. It’s got the history, the look, and the quality I was searching for. Also, I chose the sapphire crystal one because I’m kinda clumsy, and it’s much more durable. It’s not the fanciest watch out there, but that’s not what I’m after. I wanted something reliable, that’s gonna be with me for a long time, and that won’t cost me an arm and a leg, you know. It’s a tool watch, and that’s what I love about it.
The day I finally got the watch, I was like a kid on Christmas morning. I carefully opened the box, and there it was. Man, it was even more beautiful in person. I strapped it on, and it just felt right. It’s got some weight to it, but it’s comfortable. And the way the light plays off the dial and the crystal, it’s just mesmerizing.
Setting the time and winding it up for the first time was a bit of a ritual. I read the manual like five times to make sure I didn’t mess anything up. And then, that first tick…man, that was a special moment. I know it sounds silly, but it felt like I was connecting with a piece of history.
Wearing it every day since then has been a joy. I love how versatile it is. I can wear it with a suit, I can wear it with jeans and a t-shirt, it just always looks good. And every time I look down at it, I can’t help but smile. It’s not just a watch, it’s a conversation starter, a reminder of human achievement, and a little piece of history on my wrist.
- Examine the materials: Look at the case and bracelet. Fakes often use cheaper materials.
- Check the dial: Compare the dial layout and printing to real models. Look for any differences.
- Look for hallmarks and serial numbers: Make sure they’re there and correct.
- Feel the finish: Run your fingers over the case and movement. Real ones feel smooth and well-made.
I know that the decision is very personal for everyone, but I wanted to share my experience with the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch with the sapphire crystal. It’s been an awesome journey, and I’m so happy with my choice. It’s a watch that I’ll cherish for years to come.
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