Omega updates Speedmaster Moonwatch with Master Chronometer-certified movement

Omega SA has announced that its iconic Speedmaster Moonwatch, which accompanied the Apollo 11 astronauts on the first successful moon landing in 1969, will be upgraded with its first new movement in 50 years.

The world-famous Swiss watchmaker this week revealed that the original calibre 1861 used across the line is set to be replaced with the co-axial Master Chronometer-certified calibre 3861 movement, which will ensure that the Moonwatch is unaffected by even the most extreme magnetic fields reaching 15,000 gauss.

The new movement has already been approved for use on NASA space flights and took four years to produce to meet these standards. 

Elswhere on the watch, Omega has also introduced an integrated, fully-brushed bracelet with a five–arched-links-per-row design, as well as a new clasp with a polished Omega logo on a satin-finished cover. These design flourishes, according to the brand, are a nod to the classic ST 105.012 model worn by Buzz Aldrin during his historic mission to the moon in 1969.

Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of Omega said of the 2021 update: “When updating a sacred timepiece like the Speedmaster Moonwatch, every detail must be true to its original spirit.

"This chronograph is recognised the world over, so we’ve approached its design with the most sincere respect, while taking its movement to the next level.”

Fans of the design can select their updated model from eight varieties, including versions in stainless steel ($6,300 on a bracelet and $5,950 on a nylon strap), 18-karat Sedna gold ($34,800 on a bracelet and $24,600 on a leather strap) or 18-karat Canopus gold ($45,300 on a bracelet and $30,400 on a leather strap).