So I am looking at several watches in the Speedmaster is one of them. I was in an Omega Boutique today and the salesman was telling me that the more sought-after Speedmaster in the long run was the ones with the original movement. I am somewhat confused over which of the speedmasters have the original movements. I don't really see that clearly on omega's website and digesting today's visit was much.
He may also have been talking about the 861/1861 caliber vs the different versions of the Speedmaster they make with all types of movements and complications...
Yes. He was referring to 1861 and he was comparing it to the newer movements and complications. So which one of these has the 1861? And if that was not the original movement that makes it more confusing. Thanks
The watch that actually was on Buzz Aldrin on the moon had a Cal. 321. That movement was slightly modified (principally in the way in which the chronograph was actuated) and became the 861. The 861 was then rhodium plated by Omega years later and became the 1861, which is what is in the modern, handwind Moonwatch. So, in terms of new watches you can purchase at the boutique, the closest thing you can get in terms of movement to the original Moonwatch is the handwind model with 1861 movement. The other handwind moonwatch has a sapphire (and not hesalite) crystal and is outfitted with an essentially identical 1863 movement that is just a bit better decorated and that has a metal rather than a Delrin (plastic) brake. The upshot is that if you want a brand new "Moonwatch", the closest you can get is the handwind 1861 model with hesalite crystal. I believe the last three digits of the reference number for this model are .001 (on leather strap) and .005 (on bracelet).
That is correct. The automatic movements - with or without date displays or other complications - may share the name "Moonwatch", but they don't share quite the same pedigree.
Do not fear the manual watch, Grasshopper - it is a wonderful thing that will build a special relationship with you.
Two of my Omega watches are handwind. One of the joys of ownership is having my sons take turns winding them.
As a young man in the ‘70s, all I ever wanted was a watch that I never had to wind or, preferably, even adjust. I have since seen the error of my ways.
I hear you, sir...I am so sick [and tired] of ..."updating this"..."downloading that"...regarding dang-blasted computer crap. I currently derive big serenity and huge joy regarding winding/setting/regulating my watches.
