OK, now I have a dilemma! EDIT: Dilemma solved!

Well, the last week or so has seen me do a load more research on the Pro, various calibres, the merits of each etc and has had me thinking about what I want from the watch. I have to say, I'm probably at least 60/40 in favour of the Pro at the moment.

Tomorrow will be the decider I think, as I'll be in close proximity to two ADs so will be looking at bothe the black Racing and the Pro for a genuine comparison.

Either way, I should hopefully be pulling the trigger on a new Omega tomorrow! Wish me luck!

I've been to an AD and was finally able to compare the Pro to the Racing. They had to dig a Pro out of the safe that had been sold and awaiting collection, hence the distance between the watches in the wrist shot (they didn't want me to scratch either watch should they come into contact with each other. Fair enough).

Thoughts? My gut feeling went for the Pro as soon as I saw it, and I don't think it looks too big for my wrists. It actually wears flatter than the Racing and I think that helps.

I may give my local AD a call tomorrow and see if they can get in the sapphire sandwich for a good price.

Oh, and I couldn't believe how big the new box was! It's massive!

Pro for me is a better design for everyday wear. You can get the Saphire version and then you're safe, also with the movement. I have the Hesalite version on as I write this and I love it. I find the design simply unbeatable, wether on a Nato strap, leather or the bracelet. I think eventually you'll get tired of the racing design and I would see the Racing as the special occasion watch, not an everyday.

And based on the pictures the Pro looks great on your wrist. It's a great watch. Yes, the box is massive, at least the one I got with the Nasa and Nato straps, the band switch tool and loupe. A little much but, hey, you're paying for it right?

Thanks for the input Serio, appreciate it. Funny how you should mention the everyday vs special occasion thing. I proginally looked at getting the Racing for every day and maybe a vintage Pro for those special occasions. Now it seems the opposite hold true!

Thinking back on it, when I first saw the Racing, I liked it, but not as much as I thought I would. When I first saw the Pro I was surprised at how much better in the metal the object is - pictures sometimes just can't do it justice!

Another reason I originally went for the Racing was the added advancements in the movement - auto, si-14 spring, co-axial etc and thought this would be a better every day prospect. However the beautiful simplicity of the 1861/3 movement means it's proven over decades.

I'll see what the AD says tomorrow and with a bit of luck I'll be able to get one ordered. I caan then reward the good forum members patience with a few good pics of 'The Chosen One' when it arrives!

It's been a tough decision for you, and yours is one of the few that I have enjoyed reading and participating with.. 3 Pages and all!! But honestly, with this type of devotion, I truly doubt this will be your last Omega... But don't (for the sake of this thread) buy both at once!! Keep us Posted..

Thanks yande - you'll be pleased to hear I finally pulled the trigger today!

I went for the 311.30.42.30.01.006 (sapphire sandwich). They only had the hesalite version in so I've had to order it (and not actually seen the 'SS' but have seen plenty of pictures and it's essentially the same!).

I bought it from my local, family run (it's in its 6th generation or something) AD. They were only going to offer a 12% discount but I pushed it to 15%. Still worth paying a bit extra from an independent, local dealer and guaranteeing a brand new watch with full warranty imho.

Anyways, it's coming direct from Omega and should be here anywhere between 3 and 10 days. Can't wait for that phone call to say it's arrived!

Thank you to everyone who has contributed - I couldn't have done it without ya! Haha!

I shall of course be posting plenty of pics when it arrives, and I look forward to many years of wear and enjoyment!

Congrats on your purchase! I too have followed your journey to selecting your watch. I think now you can see why the Racing isn't really "seen" as often vs the Speedy Pro. I went through a similar process and ended up with a 3572.50. 😀

Enjoy it!

Congratulations, I think you've made a great choice. and I think choosing the sapphire sandwich is a great way to go, If I had to re-purchase mine I would go for the Sapphire as well. After all is not like I got the 321 so the authenticity of the Hesalite 1861 is kind of questionable and it's not like you're going to crack that glass in 0 gravity!!

Enjoy!!