Hi All, After months of looking, I have narrowed down my choice to Omega Speedmaster Pro (moonwatch with a leather strap). The AD is ordering one for me to look at, what should I look for in the serial number to make sure I am getting the most recent production model. Thank you in advance.
You could always consider buying one with the steel bracelet. The leather ones can be found for decent prices new and used, in addition to many great aftermarket straps. Welcome to the forums
Thank you, I prefer the leather strap as I already have a watch with a bracelet. Also, which model and movement is the better choice, regardless of price: (3873.50.31 with 1863 movement or the 3870.50.31 with movement 1861)
It depends really, the 3863 I believe is the displayback sapphire front and back model. A real Speedmaster Pro has a hesalite crystal, so that means the 3870.50 is the one to go for. If you want to, you can buy a displayback after the fact and attach it, but I'd get the classic.
In terms of serials, there's no way of telling like there is with older Rolexes. What you get will be fine though, the year bought tends to be what matters in Omega.
The 3873.50.31 has the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the transparent case back and the Caliber: Omega 1863 movement. A beautiful watch, but as Ashley has said the one to go for is the 3870.50.31. Hesalite crystal, Caliber: Omega 1861, with the 'first watch worn on the moon' case back. Which ever one you choose i'm sure you wont be disappointed.
The 1863 has one more jewel, a metal chronograph brake instead of nylon, and a better finish compared to the 1861. They're both still based on the Lemania 1873.
The metal brake is just for aesthetics. Omega re-fitted it on the clear glass backcase so its owners didn't have to look at a nylon brake. The nylon brake was added to reduce friction and wear.
Went to another local AD and tried on the Speedy Pro (3870.50.31) and it was love at first sight. Thanks everyone for your input and education of the different models. It was a lot of fun trying it on and knowing that the 3870.50.31 is the one for me. Thanks again everyone!
I am seriously considering it. One thing the salesperson mention that didn't I didn't understand was that She said that the movement for the watch is Not considered in-house movement... Does someone else make the movement? I thought that given the heritage of Omega they would make the movement too. All part of the education process.
The base movement is made by Lemania which is owned by Swatch Group (Omega) however for all intents and purposes, it is considered the Speedmaster movement. Nobody with a knowledge of Speedmasters will ever deride the Cal 1861/1863 for not being an entirely in-house movement, its probably the closest thing in the watch world to the Porsche 911 in that its pedigree is beyond reproach.
Ah, thank you for the information. That's very helpful to know. I am very close pulling the trigger and pick one up next month or so. Once I do, I will post pics.
The AD called today and said that the Speedmaster Pro is in for me to take a look at, How can I tell that I am getting the newest serial number? What should I look for? Thanks.