REPLICA OMEGA SPEEDMASTER – 6 ALTERNATIVES TO THE MOONWATCH (UPDATE 2024)
Why Replica Omega Speedmaster alternatives? – First of all: A Speedmaster fan writes here. This sporty chronograph is an integral part of both my collection and this watch blog. Among other things: the classic Moonwatch (purchased in 2007), two (!) the vintage Speedmaster Mark II, a Mark 4.5 (my first Speedy), a Triple Date (aka Day-Date/MK40) and the limited Speedy Tuesday 2 – Ultraman (2018). That should be enough to be part of the Speedmaster community, right?
So how do I come to be disloyal to the Omega Speedmaster and suggest alternatives here?
Well, you can find the answer in this article. The topic of “moon prices” at Omega not only makes me a little angry, but also always makes me think. Especially when it comes to the future price development of the Speedmaster. And it might not be all that fun for Moonwatch fans – at least for those on average incomes.
The short version of the article: Omega has reissued the “legendary” caliber 321. This movement was installed in the Speedmaster that was present during the first moon landing in 1969. And it is precisely this work that is coming back as a new edition in some Speedmaster models. The price of the first steel model, in this case in the so-called Pre-Moon or Ed White style (see above), is 13,100 euros 15,500 16,400 16,800 euros (update 2024). For comparison: When this article first appeared (2020), the “normal” Moonwatch cost 4,600 euros (caliber 1861) – now it is 6,600 7,000 7,400 7,600 euros (update: 2024).
If you’re not familiar with the Moonwatch calibers – roughly the historical progression:
You see: Omega is taking three (evolutionary) steps back with the new edition of the 321 – and is charging a lot of money for the revived nostalgia. – Yep, you can think about that.
AND WHERE IS THE PROBLEM NOW?
Well, there isn’t one yet. If you have money to spare, you can spend 13,100 euros 15,500 16,400 16,800 euros (updates 2020-2024) on this (pre-)moon watch in plain steel. Or buy another “special” Moonwatch model in the five-figure range and thereby stand out from the 4,600 euro 6,600 7,000, 7,400 7,600 euro Moonwatch owners.
But only financially, not in terms of watch know-how. In my opinion, a new caliber 321 doesn’t change anything.
Real connoisseurs choose a vintage Speedmaster with caliber 321 (see ebay – partner link/advertising*). They sometimes pay less – and have most likely made the better investment.
However. Now let’s get to the point why – sooner or later – it might be worth taking a look at some Moonwatch alternatives.
WILL THE MOONWATCH BE EVEN MORE “ORIGINAL” – AND EVEN MORE EXPENSIVE?
My personal thesis is: Omega seems to think that the currently available Moonwatch in steel is too cheap. Especially in comparison to its eternal competitor Rolex and its bestseller Daytona. The steel version costs well over 10,000 (list price) – including the automatic movement, ceramic bezel and considerable potential for increased value. If you get it at all – after years of waiting. But that’s another topic.
