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I am not going to buy Apollo 11, 50th ann. So: Two possibilities—help needed

Evitzee
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eugeneandresson eugeneandresson
(not to hijack the thread but) that is kindof why I don't get (nor will I pay) the premium on certain 'special caseback' models of said watch...
I agree. Back in the day ALL watches came with solid backs, the Swiss, or Germans, or Japanese never thought they had to display the movement, but once prices started going up they went with sapphire backs to show the prospective buyers what they were getting, and then the public started demanding display backs. It's all silly, in the case of the Speedmaster it doesn't seem worth a $1,000 upgrade to have a little bit better finished movement and a sapphire crystal. But that's what the market demands, there are some potential buyers that just have to see the movement.
 
Japanred
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eugeneandresson eugeneandresson
(not to hijack the thread but) that is kindof why I don't get (nor will I pay) the premium on certain 'special caseback' models of said watch...
I’m the opposite; at this value these are all dress watches and not just objects for telling the time. My watches are pieces of jewellery and I want them to look great. It would really put me off even the most beautiful watch if it was plain on the back.
 
efauser
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Japanred Japanred
I’m the opposite; at this value these are all dress watches and not just objects for telling the time. My watches are pieces of jewellery and I want them to look great. It would really put me off even the most beautiful watch if it was plain on the back.
How often do you wear them with the movement showing?
 
Japanred
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efauser efauser
How often do you wear them with the movement showing?
Never but that doesn’t make my statement wrong.
 
Stufflers Mom
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I'd probably pass on both and get the large size 44.25 racing version with orange accents.

Omega-Speedmaster-Racing-.jpg
 
64Wing
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A betting man would tell the AD to keep the deposit for the inevitable 50th Apollo XIII for next summer...just a thought 😀
 
Evitzee
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64Wing 64Wing
A betting man would tell the AD to keep the deposit for the inevitable 50th Apollo XIII for next summer...just a thought 😀
I take the opposite view, a betting man would probably conclude that the chances of Omega pulling off another 45th Apollo 13 mega-hit is pretty slim. There have been some indications that it will NOT be a Snoopy theme. Since the Apollo 13 50th will be LAST big anniversary piece for awhile (will anybody really be interested in a 55th anniversary Apollo 8, 11 or 13?......yawn), Omega will probably have to do something big and different like the Apollo 8 or 11 issues. If they go big, Snoopy may not be in the mix. No one knows anything at this point, but I think the bubbling hysteria about the next BIG Speedmaster edition may be setting people up for a disappointment.

Anyway, the OP wanted opinions about TWO watches; the Apollo 8 or the sapphire sandwich.
 
D
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Evitzee Evitzee
I own all three of the watches mentioned. I would describe them as follows:
1. Apollo 11 50th - Elegant homage
2. DSOTM Apollo 8 - Tech flashy
3. Classic Speedmaster - Tool

You have ruled out the Apollo 11, but I personally think it is the most compelling of the three. The Apollo 8 is in the larger ceramic case with very innovative dial and movement treatment, you either like it or not. It's a very comfortable watch on your wrist and looks the part. It's also about 50% more expensive than a sapphire sandwich.

The standard moonwatch (hesalite or sapphire) is the quintessential tool watch. Recognizable from afar, it serves its purpose. It's a classic.

If you are only going to have one Speedmaster than I'd go for the classic edition, if it is part of series of Speedmasters in your collection I'd go for Apollo 8.

If you want the leather strap classic version, and are buying from an AD, I would buy the bracelet version which is just a $100 more, and then ask the dealer to include a leather strap and Omega deployant buckle as part of the deal. Most dealers will do this and it gives you more flexibility and will make the watch easier to sell down the road. Even if you figure you'll never sell it you never know, times and tastes change.
I also own all three and couldn’t agree more with Evitzee’s assessment. Well said.
 
kelsey
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efauser efauser
How often do you wear them with the movement showing?
If it’s the Apollo 8 all the time 😉
 
kkt
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The Sapphire Sandwhich is not qualified for space. It's less resistant to being magnetized. I went for a traditional moonwatch.
 
JohnnyRocket
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Hey there...
If you can I would choose the Apollo 8. I’ve had mine for a few months now and it truly is a work of art that you never tire looking at. I customized mine by going with an omega black gator strap with the dual pin Titanium and ceramic clasp!
Much more secure than just the buckle, especially if you have a large Sasquatch
Sized wrist as I do. It strangely seems to focus your attention on the watch face
Detail as well. You notice the yellow more. I liked the raised detail of the gator
More than the smoothness of the original strap. More pricey Yes, but peace
Of mind knowing the watch is incredibly secure. Also high cool factor of being a bit unique! Have fun.
 
STANDY
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i would buy the classic Moon watch and a 1171 bracelet.
 
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