A look at the 2021 Speedmaster 310.30.42.50.01.002 sapphire sandwich moon watch with 3861 co-axial movement. Music - Virtualignment by KMONEY 1986 / virtualignment Clasp replacement info (see his archived story) - / watchonmywrist
Excellent review of a beautiful watch. Sometimes, you have to ignore the hype and consider a watch on its own merits. I am 75 years old and yes, I did watch the moon landings on a small black and white TV. I purchased my 1969 Speedmaster in the early 70s and have treasured it ever since.
The 3861 Hesalite is my 4th Speedy Pro and it is the best they’ve ever produced. While the connection to Space is a bonus for me - I’m a massive “early space race” nerd - the main draw is it’s no nonsense approach. It is arguably one of the most versatile watches on the market. A watch with massive historical significance, true “iconic” status, that you can readily buy under MSRP. Mine runs at +1.8 secs per day, incredible. The improvements to the case were immediately noticeable and it wears far better than the old 1861. Small details like a narrower chrono hand, step dial, 1/3 second marks (vs 1/4) all help clean up the dial. The bracelet is the best Omega has ever produced. It is as comfortable as a Rolex jubilee. And this bracelet is a direct clone from the 1970s - it is the same from the solid gold l Speedy all Apollo astronauts received as a gift from Omega. The fact it’s 2022 and it pretty much shares the aesthetics as one from 50 years ago is remarkable.
That's yet to be seen... most mid-1994 Speedmaster chronographs ran for 20 years without problems (mine from 1994 to 2016 before needing a service) #MoonwatchUniverse 🧐
Agree. The 3861 is the best Speedy so far. In design with the DON bezel, stepped dial, and flat pushers very close to the famous 105.012 of Moonlanding fame, mechanically more accurate. Slightly thinner than the previous iteration, sits better on the wrist. Of course, it has to be the Hesalite version. But the bracelet I don’t care for, too dressy and delicate. Much prefer a good leather strap.
This isn’t a watch that went to the moon , it is THE WATCH that went to the moon. Love it or hate it, it is a legend and a must have for all collections.
@@mimikatzit’s the history of the watch that matters,not the first movement that was in that speedmaster. I want today’s movement and the legendary speedmaster look
I always liked the Moonwatch but didn’t want to own one until this new version came out. The whole moon connection is cool but it’s not a big factor for me. The watch is just beautiful. Hopefully, the sapphire sandwich will be my next watch.
I feel the same way I’ve always liked the speedmaster but didn’t want to own one cause of the lack of hacking, it would have definitely bothered me if it didn’t hack which is why I’m really interested in this newer version of the moonwatch watch.
@@neo3429 There are many versions of the Speedmaster. This is just one version. There are other versions (non Moonwatch) that have better WR, are automatic and feature hacking seconds all along.
After a couple of years of waiting, I finally got the chance to try one on. Absolutely loved it !! Now just trying to justify spending that amount on a watch 🙂
This is an awesome watch, the movement and bracelet are on point, I think you are sleeping on how good this watch is in my opinion, thanks for the video
I received my Sapphire Sandwich yesterday. I love the watch for its looks, not for its history. The history is a nice bonus though. I didn't like the previous model mostly because of the bracelet, but Omega did everything right with the 2021 Speedmaster. I don't care much about the dot over ninety, but i love the looks of the step dial, the applied logo and of course the new bracelet. On the technical side, the improved movement with the metas certification was also a bonus point for buying this watch. Thank you for the video and your opinion. Love your content :)
@@albundy3929 I think you are confused. There is a big difference in a rock solid bracelet that still molds to your wrist and isn’t bulky in the least (ie modern rolex oyster) and something that is just cheap and flimsy. The 3861 bracelet is poorly finished, absolute junk. It’s nowhere near the quality of a Rolex oyster bracelet or even an omega bracelet from the 90’s. Nothing more than a cost savings measure by omega disguised as “vintage” inspired.
My wife bought me this exact watch for my 30th. I love it, and was not expecting it at all, so for me it doesn’t remind me of the moon but rather my wife (and feeling old)! To me that’s what watches are all about! Love the speedy looks, size and feel. For the price it’s a whole lot of watch. Thanks for the great vids!
Especially, if you consider, that he owned a grey side of the moon... I was really surprised, that you didn't even lost a single word about it.🤔 Was a fan, but not a big one of the former version, but as you said it, the new braclet brought it on a new level! Nevertheless, I stay with my Apollo 8, but for a one watch watchcollection, this would probably be my pick.
Regardless of whether one is interested of the journey to the Moon or not, this watch is simply a classic. It has the best legibility of any chronograph out there in any light conditions, there is nothing superfluous on the dial, which would distract from reading the time, it's robust and durable. I used mine with the 1861 movement for both road and off-road cycling, hiking for over 10 years. I rode across the Alps in all kinds of whether conditions from 35-40 degrees C to freezing conditions up at 2700m of altitude. I sweat an incredible amount with the watch on, it has seen loads and loads of dust from the road and it just kept working. I even used to sleep with the watch because of the good lume. In addition after 12 years of intense use I could sell it for almost twice the price I bought it for. If you don't go diving, you can really use this watch for just about everything else, from sports to business meetings as it slips under the cuff. I like my Speedmaster more than ever and if I could keep just one wristwatch this would be it. It makes a perfect one watch for everything provided you don't go diving and swimming with it. It might even take some swimming, I never tried that however, I just have no need for it. I also find the chronograph function very useful. So the advertising of Omega, that this is a robust, no-nonsense, do-it-all watch is no bullshit. I would never part with it any more.
Great video, than-you! I’ve always dismissed the Speedy 42 assuming it would be too large on my 7” wrist and I don’t like the 38mm so I was amazed when I tried this yesterday. Looked absolutely spot on size wise and that bracelet is next level of comfort. Love it!
The ‘sourdough sandwich’ insight was my favourite… Really refreshing to see an objective (your lack of enthusiasm for chronographs aside) review of this watch. And an honest appraisal of the moon connection. I really like it but would have it on a strap.
I just got my SS on bracelet on 10.7.23 and I am very pleased with it. I have wanted a "Moonwatch" since the 70's and it looks like my timing is excellent. The 3861 with all its technical / mechanical advancements is amazing. The new 5 link melt on your wrist bracelet with the recently introduced on the fly micro length adjustment. The new stepped dial, lume, domed hands, dot over 90, etc... is close to perfection. I chose the SS because of the durability and the open case back. I love to look at the movement. I am very pleased. It set me back USD 8,000 and is a tremendous value. Oh, yeah did I say it is beautiful. A classy, humble beautiful.
Great honest review man, just like all your others! I'm a super Omega fan, but the SpeedyPro never really did a lot for me. I mean I've tied!! I owned about half a dozen, then went without for a while. Then just HAD to get another one. Ended up settling on a 3572 hesalite front sapphire back and have owned it for over 6 years now. Hardly ever wear it, but I appreciate it so much, I just can't go without it. Gives me so much joy just handling it and looking at it, I don't need to wear it! Watches are like art like that.
Kind of found out about this channel a little bit late into my watch obsession and your very unusual style (for a USA’er) heavily sprinkled with sarcasm really resonates with me. Quickly becoming a fan, please don’t sell out.
Beautiful simple looking watch. Not to flashy, it's sporty and at the same time got some elegance. It goes under the radar, until it catches your attention, then it becomes interesting and you would want to look at it again and again to find out what the watch is all about. The movement is stunning, and high quality. This is a true masterpiece of a watch. Most likely the best chrono for under $10K.
Great review! I still bought one and am currently wearing it. As far as tool watches go, this is one of the only ones that kind of makes sense to me. Water resistance doesn't matter too much since I haven't gone swimming in... a decade. And I probably wouldn't wear a watch if I did swim anyway. Plus this watch is rated for a swim after all. Pro tip: Don't go in the ocean the day after a major storm... Rip currents can be deadly! Therapy helps!
I think you’re being very harsh, ok yeah this exact model didn’t go to the moon but 50% of the parts of the 3861 mov’t is the same as the 1861 and this is just a polished up version of the 861, and the 861 is just an updated version of the original 321 movement made in 1957-68. Also, Omega has tested the new 3861 using the same tests nasa used on the original moon watch. The new bracket and clasp is also similar to the earlier ones, you’ll really struggle to find a Watch that’s easily available that’s modern and still has a lot of its original features and using similar movements (from before they became part of swatch, and tbf omegas movement development and technology has really thrived in the last decade ish years). Yeh they’ve gone on about the moon, but it’s still an epic story, hopefully be my next watch
Your honesty in your reviews are breath of fresh air. Also the subtle humor is the icing on the cake. I have owned many of the previous iterations but departed from them for the reasons you mentioned. The new movement seems good but the balance regulated by weight screws are not user friendly for me. Most of the time even with the metas this that I find myself regulating to my liking of 2 seconds or less per day. I know I am spoiled by Rolex and GS spring drives. But with new architecture, it seems it would be difficult to do. Thanks again for a great review.
I’ve been collecting seriously for about 5-6 years, and bought dozens and dozens (and sold). Have a few Omegas which i still have, never a Speedmaster Moonwatch. Got one few months back, a Hesalite 3861. Im over the moon with it, just strikes a cord of good looks. On a Nato or Omega Croc, changes things up to. Really enjoy it, keeper. Ill buy back the Globemaster, had the 41 annual calendar, will go for the 39 date only. That will be my first ever buy back.
Great review buddy ! And may i say I like your nice subtle sense of humor ! Also, my feelings towards the watch are same as yours but it has grown on me.
I’ve recently acquired the Speedy Pro with the cal. 1861 from my bro in law who needed to make room for his collection. The speedy pro was in the chopping block but I grabbed the opportunity to buy it. It’s a 2018 Big Box with all the goodies. It was priced fairly well. He included the new bracelet as well which made the wearing experience on my 6.25” feel incredible. It’s so good that it took the wrist time away from my Explorer 124270. It’s an incredible watch and i love looking at the dial.
Thank you for the very thorough and clever review. Oh, I love the quality and look of this watch. I've been studying it for weeks. I just can't pull the trigger because of your last comment "I forgot to wind it." The manual wind is holding me back. I'm almost ready to move on.
I bought one yesterday. Box is over the top. I love the watch. Story is a cool part of history. I have 3 straps for it. Might even get a space suit so I can wear it over that. Cheers to bezos for wearing the professional with the blue origin nato strap.
Fantastic watches. I've owned two hesalite 1861s and sold them each time. As you say - water resistance and I just didn't see the need for a Chronograph .. oh.. and a little too bulky But they do look fantastic and the quality really is there...I just can't justify a watch that will not be worn... great vid as always
My first Speedy, bought around 17 years ago, was the first Sapphire Sandwich model with the 1863 movement. It has the original "First and only watch worn on the moon" inscription on the back case. That, of course, has to be edited when it was discovered that on Apollo 15, Dave Scott had taken a Bulova prototype chronograph with him and wore it on his third moon walk when his Speedy's crystal popped off. The inscription was changed to "The first watch worn on the moon". The 1863 was and still is a beautiful watch but it always ran a bit too fast for my taste and the lack of hacking made setting the time an adventure. I'm going to sell it but in advance of that I recently bought the Speedmaster 3861 Sapphire and couldn't be happier. The Co-Axial master movement is aces. It's gaining 3 seconds every two days and the addition of hacking was long overdue. The bracelet came with the quick adjust clasp. While it only really gives you a small +/- one stop change, making that change without having to push the pins in is great. The watch actually wears bit smaller than its 42mm size and the bracelet laying flat on the wrist also is factor in that. To me it's the perfect Speedmaster
the new bracelet changed everything about this one and I love it. I had the "old" version and bought the new bracelet. It feels much better on the wrist and looks so good.
I have this exact one. The links to the moon landing and NASA heritage means very little to me and who really uses a a chronograph these days. Who uses any of the mechanical watch complications these days? Generally ppl are buying watches for the look of the watch or the brand/hype… hate it all you want but it’s the reality. I am a watch lover more than a hype guy but hype plays a part in every kind of watch collector. No one is going to say no to a Batman nor Daytona… which brings me to my point . I am astounded how this watch is available and at or below retail on the grey market. This is a far more attractive watch than most Daytonas. The bracelet is a masterpiece. The dimensions are spot on. It’s gorgeous from any angle and in your video is looks INCREDIBLE on your wrist. Made me fall in love with it even more. It’s hands down my favorite piece and I have many Brands including the hottest Rolex. The fast this is not a hype piece blows my mind and In fact it’s great becuase they are available. It’s like the best kept secret in front of everyone’s eyes. I cannot recommend this watch more to anyone. If you are the fence buy it. It’s the best speedmaster available today and ever. Snoopy is nice but this is more versatile and the movement in display makes it a true classic.. I guess in the end this watch like is all subjective yet there are watches out there that appreak to almost 100% of watch enthusiasts. This one in my opinion is one of them and maybe you gotta see it , feel it, wear it and own it to know what I’m taking about … ok rant over. Great video bro .
Zen mind is beginner's mind. Your impressions of a watch you haven't owned are very insightful, enlightened even. Very worthwhile review that made me laugh more than a few times. Also, the videography was outstanding. And your conclusion is spot on. This may be one of your best videos since the ones featuring...the Cartier Santos Medium. BTW, did you watch the recent video from Theo and Harris giving you propers on your videos? I think they specifically mentioned the videos on...the Cartier Santos Medium. Do you miss that watch yet?!?!
I gave this video a thumbs up, I’m so curious how many gave it a thumbs down lol I like this review coming from a disconnected perspective and reviewing it purely as a watch vs an icon. Always enjoy your work.
This is the first time I think I've been tempted by the Speedmaster. Size looks good. Strap looks good. I'll probably buy a MoonSwatch to get a sense of sizing first though :)
I have the previous version of the standard Moonwatch with Hesalite glass. The bracelet is SOLID. I am not a bracelet guy, but this one feels very sturdy and matches the heft and toughness of the watch head. It is a real proper technical and tool-driven piece. Yeah sure it has a moon-embellished case-backing, but who doesn’t like to party? In the front it’s all business. The new one seems to be a departure. It seems more dressy, more delicate and I’ll admit - easy to wear. Which is okay. It’s fine if that’s what Omega wants/people want. I love my version and I wouldn’t trade it for the new one. To each his own. I do feel that ALL pre-coaxial Speedy models will command premiums in the somewhat distant future. The introductions the coaxial movement is a monumental change for an already historic piece. In any case, get a Moonwatch. You won’t regret it.
I have the older version and was convinced I was going to trade it in for the new one until I saw it in the metal and the extreme taper on the bracelet, the clasp at 15mm just felt too small. If it had been 20 to 18 or 17 it would have been better.
I own both the following Speedmaster Moon wacth and the 3861 and for me I definitely prefer the 3861. It's way more accurate than the 1863 I own and I love the hacking seconds hand on the 3861 as for the bracelet I prefer the new bracelet.
@@rey_s90 I had a choice between both new and chose the 1861. I don't like the stumpier case on the new one and the step dial did nothing for me. I also don't need the reported teething problems that many have had on the 3861 movement.
The pre coaxial speedmasters will definitely not command premiums. Omega cranked them out by the millions. The market is literally saturated with them and will be for many decades
I gotta agree this is one of those watches you either get it or you don't. Maybe if you grew up when we first walked on the moon it might be easier. It's also easier to appreciate it considering it is one of few mechanical watches subjected to testing and certification for use in space, an awesome thing in itself.
Your humorous review reminded me of what George Carlin once said; "we spent millions going to the moon, and what did the common man get out of it? Tang". 😲🍊
I see the Moonwatch more like a peace of art or as an artifact of human development. It reminds me that even the boldest dreams can come true! IMHO the Omega Speedmaster Professional is unique combination of overwhelming design and fantastic history!!! Love the twisted lugs. Love the clean dial. Love the Space connection.
Good review. I agree and have the same reasons for not owning a Speedy. Looking and trying them on I know if I do pull the trigger it would be a hesalite version.
Thank you for your honest opinion. I do own a previous version of this watch. But my question is towards your own experience with the Explorer 14270 and an IWC Mark XII. Would you please be able to comment on which watch of the two would occupy your wrist? Thank you in advance.
I ordered this yesterday. I love the speedy more the previous model but wasn't able to obtain one and wanted it new. I love th3 story behind the speedy and the moon history. This may not be that one but prohaps In the future it could be.
I'm one of those who looks at a Speedy and IS reminded of everything humans are capable of, Manual winding - doesn't bother me, I like the ritual of turning the crown for 30 seconds.... Mind you, I'm also a total space junkie and SpaceX fanboi. And just to totally throw a spanner around, I also have a Komandirskie and I like it, I like it a lot!
Most honest review of the moon watch I’ve seen. You did leave out the actual connection to space of this modern version i.e. on the wrist of a cowboy hat wearing, billionaire space tourist. 😂
I bought this bracelet for my previous model cal.1861 (yes, it fits!) to make it wear smaller on my flat-profiled 6-inch wrist. I was so close to selling it because of how the original combination wore on me, but I'm glad I didn't as it has solved all my issues with it. Amazingly, the bracelet is easy enough to order through an AD and fairly priced.
As an Omega fan I have no issue with some valid criticism - I just wish RU-vidrs would apply the same criticism for Rolex. When was the last time someone made a video about "Unsure about the new Rolex Submariner" - or I guess it's just perfect then?
@@YoureTerrific I have. But comparing a video about a $40k watch to Omega's sub-$10k flagship model is not accurate. Why don't you do a video about the Submariner maxi-case and how the lugs are so wide and the case is too fat?
This, the medium Santos, the stainless steel ADLC bezel with the grey dial, or a Tudor bb58 (classic black, silver, or bronze)? These are my options for a next watch?
I have a discontinued 1863 in which I love, and luckily was able to pick up a few months back in a new old stock. I also like and prefer the bracelet on that model and it looks and feels nice in my opinion.
I would suspect the fact that the watch doesn’t include the adjustable clasp has to do with the fact that it is still NASA flight certified and the push button slider may be more prone to failure.
Love this un-bias review; there's something special about this watch when you put it on, you really do need to try it. Also, quick question, what 'invisible' stand are you using to get those shots with the watch standing upright?
Like your honesty, many people seem to be afraid of giving criticism to popular models. All of the other videos besides yours that I’ve seen have been the same reaction and opinion for the most part.
I have the Hesalite version and it's brilliant. The 3861 is incredibly accurate. When I was into measuring mine last summer it was +0.4 seconds per day after settling in. I also tested the power reserve to 65 hours and keeping accurate time at least up until 4 hours before (that's when I went to bed). Like you, I appreciate the moon history, but it's not the driving factor for me wanting this watch. Honestly it was the new bracelet and dial. If I could change one thing, maybe having it be 40mm and adjusting the proportions (meaning slightly thinner, etc). I have a 6.5" wrist, and in no way does it wear large for me, but 2 mm less would be ideal. I'm interested in trying and comparing the the Zenith Chronomaster Original one of these days. No dealers near me, but the next time I'm in Vegas...maybe.
The new bracelet is indeed awesome, but I wear my Speedy Hesalite always on a Nato Strap (you never know when I need to go into space 😃 ), so for me the upgrade was not that big and I kept my caliber 1861 Speedy. Also; with current prices my Speedy almost looks like a bargain when I bought it.
I love NATO straps, but I have yet to take the Speedmaster off the bracelet so far. I do wear my Planet Ocean almost exclusively on a NATO these days. The Speedmaster bracelet has spoiled me.@@Franzino
