Speedmaster versus Planet Ocean - which to add to collection?

scott784 · Feb 28, 2021

I own a SMP 300m on white dial with bracelet and black rubber strap. Great watch. But I want to add a second Omega timepiece and I'm undecided. I have looked at the "big brother" (so to speak) of the SMP - namely the Planet Ocean; and I could really see myself owning the PO along with the SMP 300m (even though it seems a bit chunky). They are different enough from each other to work; and the PO is a great looking watch with an excellent bracelet and rubber strap options where I can make it very distinctive from my existing SMP 300m. I really like the Seamaster watches a lot!

That being said, I've recently started looking at the Speedmaster Moonwatch. If I go this route, (just me) I would prefer the sapphire over the hesalite. But I've noticed there's now a waitlist for the old 1863 movement, reference number 311.30.42.30.01.006. It looks like now, the 3861 movement, master chronometer certified, reference number 310.30.42.50.01.002 is the new edition. It appears this was a recent upgrade to the Speedy; and of course the new price tag to go along with it. The Speedy never really struck me so much at first. But the more I look at its complications as a chronograph; I think I could really appreciate it in my small collection; and it's certainly very iconic with its history!

It goes without saying the PO and Speedy are very different watches from Omega; and I am on the fence about which way to go. I will say one thing that concerns me with the Speedmaster is the fact that it does not appear to have the quick easy micro-adjust feature on the bracelet clasp like the Seamaster models. On the other hand, I think the PO is a bit chunky, although I still think it could work on my 7.25 inch wrist. Perhaps, the chunkiness is the biggest issue with the PO and the Speedy's bracelet without a nice quick adjust on the clasp would be one of it's biggest negatives.

Once I pull the trigger, I don't expect to be buying a third piece for a long time. And while these things are personal decisions, more than anything - I am just looking for advice (perspective) here from others. Perhaps there other factors that I should think about? Thanks for any replies here.

8100_RPM · Feb 28, 2021

I own both the 8900 PO and the Speedy Pro. Since you already own a SMP 300, you should opt for a little variety and go for the Speedy Pro. The Speedy Pro is also a strap monster that you can dress up if needed. Just my $0.02.

Good luck with your purchase!

Kiltie · Feb 28, 2021

I agree with the above.
The level of - I don't know what else to say - awesomeness - of the new SMP300 really undermines the PO line-up at this time, I think. PO line is really gonna have to take things out a new door on the refresh. The SMP300 punches WAY above its' weight re: dollar for dollar.
Mix it up, before the Speedmaster takes yet another hike and you regret it.

dsio · Feb 28, 2021

The SMP300 is a really good watch as stated above, Speedy Pro is a very different watch being a manual wind chronograph and makes a solid next logical step. If you bought the PO odds are you would end up preferring one of the two since they’re so similar and just not wearing the other much, while the Speedy and Seamaster have different uses and will be more likely to share wrist time.

drhombus24 · Feb 28, 2021

I wouldn’t sweat it, you’ll have both soon enough (Speaking from experience)😉

But seriously, try to find a way to see them in person. I didn’t like the speedmaster at first because it felt less solid than the 8500 Planet Ocean I had at the time. You may feel similarly coming from an SMP

If you don’t feel this way, +1 for the Speedmaster👍

Observer · Feb 28, 2021

You already have a Seamaster, so spread it around. Speedmaster is a watch with auto racing heritage that got hijacked by a bunch of space geeks. Double the cool. How can you go wrong?

scott784 · Feb 28, 2021

Observer
You already have a Seamaster, so spread it around. Speedmaster is a watch with auto racing heritage that got hijacked by a bunch of space geeks. Double the cool. How can you go wrong?

Yea, I love the history of the Speedy! And while the PO spoke to me first, the more I look at the Speedy, its style and complications grow on me. Interesting they just did a refresh of the Speedy whereas (I think) the PO was last refreshed in 2016. Anyone know when the PO is due for a refresh??

As previously stated, one area of concern is the bracelet on the Speedy. With the new sapphire Speedy version, I am "not" seeing anything in the description about any changes with the clasp. This is where the Seamaster watches shine with their quick easy micro-adjust feature on the bracelet. I never knew how much I would appreciate having that feature until I got it on my SMP 300. It's great b/c it allows for that perfect fit all the time with no tools! So I guess I am kind of puzzled while the new Speedy does not "appear" to offer that since Omega seemed to make a number of other nice updates with the new sapphire version of the new Speedy?

Anyhow, the two references I am considering are the Speedy 310.30.42.50.01.002 (new sapphire version) or the PO 215.32.46.51.01.001. Though "very" different from each other, I think they are both very cool in their own way! The PO (below) while still in the Seamaster line is still different from my current SMP 300 while dial on bracelet. Of course, if I did opt for the PO, I'd get it on the bracelet first.

As others have stated here, it would be nice to shake things up with another Omega watch line (the Speedy), but the lack of a quick adjust on the bracelet clasp (on the Speedy) is somewhat concerning; and I don't understand why Omega wouldn't have included it on this new edition (unless I'm missing something)? My biggest pet peeve with the PO is its thickness - though not necessarily a deal breaker either.

scott784 · Feb 28, 2021

I referenced the wrong Planet Ocean (above). It is PO reference: 215.30.44.21.01.002 (below).

Dor_42 · Mar 1, 2021

+1 on the Speedmaster.
The new model does have some micro adjustment on its clasp, it's not "on the go" but it is there and can help fit it better.

Also, some people did a clasp conversion on the exiting model, one more thing to look into-
https://omegaforums.net/threads/speedmaster-adjustable-clasp-conversion-end-links.113636/

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=584973

I'm pretty sure it can also be done for the newer model so you can choose which one is more appealing to you considering the different features and prices.

PizGloria · Mar 15, 2021

scott784
I referenced the wrong Planet Ocean (above). It is PO reference: 215.30.44.21.01.002 (below).

I think a Planet Ocean chronograph is a nice compromise between the two timepieces. That being said, the Planet Ocean chronograph is a very thick watch when compared to the Speedmaster. As cool and legendary as the Speedmaster is though, it’s a lot of money to spend on a manual winding watch.

215.30.46.51.01.001

or

215.30.46.51.03.001

would be the pick of the bunch. Buy on the bracelet then get the leather strap and deployment afterwards. I have both on my 39.5mm Planet Ocean plus some OMEGA NATO straps too. Good luck buddy

scott784 · Mar 15, 2021

PizGloria
I think a Planet Ocean chronograph is a nice compromise between the two timepieces. That being said, the Planet Ocean chronograph is a very thick watch when compared to the Speedmaster. As cool and legendary as the Speedmaster is though, it’s a lot of money to spend on a manual winding watch.

215.30.46.51.01.001

or

215.30.46.51.03.001

would be the pick of the bunch. Buy on the bracelet then get the leather strap and deployment afterwards. I have both on my 39.5mm Planet Ocean plus some OMEGA NATO straps too. Good luck buddy

Thanks for your reply. I really like (and considered) those chronograph versions of the Planet Ocean you mentioned. Unfortunately, it would have been too much of a stretch financially. So I ended up going with:

Planet Ocean 43.5 mm 215.30.44.21.01.001 (the black dial version - picture below)

I wanted a second Omega watch and struggled about getting a Speedy versus Planet Ocean (to add to my white dial Seamaster 300m). Even now, if I think about it too much I could start second guessing myself. But I like the Seamasters so well that I chose a black dial PO to go with my white dial Seamaster 300m. I hear some concerns on the forums about its thickness. And while it may be an issue for some people, it seems fine on my 7.25 inch wrist.

I will get a Speedy someday, although I'd probably want the latest version (with the new movement) that just came out). But, I have to agree with you in saying that it's a lot of money for a manual winding watch, especially with the price jump on the new versions. At the same time, I also agree that it's a very cool and legendary timepiece.

arkman · Mar 15, 2021

Congratulations and wear it well!

scott784 · Mar 15, 2021

On the note of the Speedy, the "Snoopy" version just looks so cool! Of course, we know that one is a limited edition. When I get ready to buy another Omega (which I think will be the Speedy), I'd have to choose one of the standard reference options. But I have to be careful, as buying too many watches at once can become very dangerous from a financial perspective. I could just say madness! lol

Matth84 · Mar 19, 2021

Always difficult to discuss about one's taste, but if you ask me, I prefer a Speedmaster over a PO.

PizGloria · Mar 19, 2021

scott784
Thanks for your reply. I really like (and considered) those chronograph versions of the Planet Ocean you mentioned. Unfortunately, it would have been too much of a stretch financially. So I ended up going with:

Planet Ocean 43.5 mm 215.30.44.21.01.001 (the black dial version - picture below)

I wanted a second Omega watch and struggled about getting a Speedy versus Planet Ocean (to add to my white dial Seamaster 300m). Even now, if I think about it too much I could start second guessing myself. But I like the Seamasters so well that I chose a black dial PO to go with my white dial Seamaster 300m. I hear some concerns on the forums about its thickness. And while it may be an issue for some people, it seems fine on my 7.25 inch wrist.

I will get a Speedy someday, although I'd probably want the latest version (with the new movement) that just came out). But, I have to agree with you in saying that it's a lot of money for a manual winding watch, especially with the price jump on the new versions. At the same time, I also agree that it's a very cool and legendary timepiece.

Yeah the stainless steel 2016 Planet Ocean range are great looking timepieces.

I reckon you’ve got a nice balance of colour going on with your two OMEGA divers. The ‘great white’ on a black rubber strap for a more informal look and the PO on the bracelet which speaking from experience goes with just about anything.

If you have any leftover cash, get yourself the OMEGA strap and deployment to go with it. I wear my 39.5mm pretty much all the time on the strap. Still love the bracelet but the strap option makes the PO much, much lighter.

Faz · Mar 19, 2021

I would first try to answer the question “hand wound vs automatic?” first. Many I know have never warmed up to a hand wound movement once the Speedmaster hit their collection.

scott784
I own a SMP 300m on white dial with bracelet and black rubber strap. Great watch. But I want to add a second Omega timepiece and I'm undecided. I have looked at the "big brother" (so to speak) of the SMP - namely the Planet Ocean; and I could really see myself owning the PO along with the SMP 300m (even though it seems a bit chunky). They are different enough from each other to work; and the PO is a great looking watch with an excellent bracelet and rubber strap options where I can make it very distinctive from my existing SMP 300m. I really like the Seamaster watches a lot!

That being said, I've recently started looking at the Speedmaster Moonwatch. If I go this route, (just me) I would prefer the sapphire over the hesalite. But I've noticed there's now a waitlist for the old 1863 movement, reference number 311.30.42.30.01.006. It looks like now, the 3861 movement, master chronometer certified, reference number 310.30.42.50.01.002 is the new edition. It appears this was a recent upgrade to the Speedy; and of course the new price tag to go along with it. The Speedy never really struck me so much at first. But the more I look at its complications as a chronograph; I think I could really appreciate it in my small collection; and it's certainly very iconic with its history!

It goes without saying the PO and Speedy are very different watches from Omega; and I am on the fence about which way to go. I will say one thing that concerns me with the Speedmaster is the fact that it does not appear to have the quick easy micro-adjust feature on the bracelet clasp like the Seamaster models. On the other hand, I think the PO is a bit chunky, although I still think it could work on my 7.25 inch wrist. Perhaps, the chunkiness is the biggest issue with the PO and the Speedy's bracelet without a nice quick adjust on the clasp would be one of it's biggest negatives.

Once I pull the trigger, I don't expect to be buying a third piece for a long time. And while these things are personal decisions, more than anything - I am just looking for advice (perspective) here from others. Perhaps there other factors that I should think about? Thanks for any replies here.

scott784 · Mar 19, 2021

PizGloria

Yeah the stainless steel 2016 Planet Ocean range are great looking timepieces.

I reckon you’ve got a nice balance of colour going on with your two OMEGA divers. The ‘great white’ on a black rubber strap for a more informal look and the PO on the bracelet which speaking from experience goes with just about anything.

If you have any leftover cash, get yourself the OMEGA strap and deployment to go with it. I wear my 39.5mm pretty much all the time on the strap. Still love the bracelet but the strap option makes the PO much, much lighter.

Yes, I've got the black rubber strap (with white accents) on order for the black dial/bezel PO. I like it on the bracelet (lots of wrist presence), but also interested to see how it will look on the rubber. And, no doubt, would be much lighter. The PO is a tall watch for sure. But it seems to work on my 7.25 inch wrist.

I am glad though, that I opted for the all black dial/bezel versus the one with the orange accents. The orange one really spoke to me at first. But then I became concerned thinking about how I might like it several years down the road.

scott784 · Mar 19, 2021

Faz
I would first try to answer the question “hand wound vs automatic?” first. Many I know have never warmed up to a hand wound movement once the Speedmaster hit their collection.

I got the PO, but I think the Speedmaster is still in my future. Such a legendary watch. You do give "food for thought" though about the manual wind. I've also wondered about the quality of the bracelet on the newest version of the Speedy. I would imagine it's fine. But others have observed that it's so light weight, almost being flimsy looking, or toy like. I don't really know from personal experience.

cknight24 · Mar 19, 2021

Great choice on the PO! A lot of folks don't like the thickness of some watches, but I rather enjoy having something substantial on my wrist. I bought the outgoing Speedmaster 1861 in hesalite. I got it on the leather, which is an option, as is selling the bracelet and buying one of the older ones. I enjoy winding it every morning. That said, I wear it every day. While it is a strap monster, for now I've settled on a dark brown strap with white stitching. Such an amazing color combination!

scott784 · Mar 19, 2021

cknight24
Great choice on the PO! A lot of folks don't like the thickness of some watches, but I rather enjoy having something substantial on my wrist. I bought the outgoing Speedmaster 1861 in hesalite. I got it on the leather, which is an option, as is selling the bracelet and buying one of the older ones. I enjoy winding it every morning. That said, I wear it every day. While it is a strap monster, for now I've settled on a dark brown strap with white stitching. Such an amazing color combination!

Your watch looks great on the brown leather! The Speedy really does appear so versatile with straps. And there is certainly an argument to be made for getting the outgoing 1861 in hesalite versus one of the new versions, particularly with the large price increase.

As for my PO, I would prefer it being a bit thinner. But quite honestly, unless you hold your arm out in front of you and stare at the height of the watch, it's really not that noticeable. And as far as the color, a solid black dial and bezel are so timeless, it's never going out of style. Actually, I would have been okay getting a blue dial/bezel as well. Tough call there as they both look good. But I just could not get behind the PO model with the orange on the bezel. It looks so interesting, but I had to consider how I might have felt about it a long time from now.

Speedmaster versus Planet Ocean - which to add to collection?

scott784

8100_RPM

Kiltie

dsio

drhombus24

Observer

scott784

scott784

Dor_42

PizGloria

scott784

arkman

scott784

Matth84

PizGloria

Faz

scott784

scott784

cknight24

scott784

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