Popular Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch and Speedmaster

When we talk about chronograph watches, the Omega Speedmaster is easily one of the most famous. Yet, unbeknownst to some, the Speedmaster is actually a highly varied collection and distinguishing between different Speedy models can sometimes be a little overwhelming. So, we’ve chosen two popular versions, the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch and the Speedmaster ’57, to examine further, so that we can highly stress their origins, similarities, and differences.
Omega first introduced the Speedmaster chronograph particularly for motorsports in 1957 as part of a trilogy of professional replica watches – the other two were the Seamaster 300 dive watch and the Railmaster antimagnetic watch. And the current Omega Speedmaster ’57 collection is a tribute to that original maiden reference.
The fake Omega Speedmaster was the first chronograph to move the tachymeter scale from the dial to the bezel for better legibility. While later models included printed bezel inserts, that very first Speedmaster had an engraved steel bezel, which is now the defining feature of modern Speedmaster ’57 watches.
Another similar design trait across all Speedmaster ’57 fake watches is round symmetrical cases with straight lugs and no crown guards. Other nods to the first Speedy found across some (but not all) Speedmaster ’57 models include the Broad Arrow hands, the three-link steel bracelet, and beige-colored lume to mimic the patina that develops with age.
However, different from the original 1957 Speedmaster, the contemporary Omega Speedmaster ’57 features larger cases measuring 41.5mm cases and automatic Co-Axial movements. The option of movement also means a dial redesign to include only two sub-dials at 3 and 9 and a date window at 6 o’clock. What’s more, though the Speedmaster was originally only offered in stainless steel, Omega replica makes Speedmaster ’57 models in a range of materials including steel, gold, and two-tone configurations.
The only exception to the above design details is the unique 60th Anniversary Speedmaster ’57. Unveiled in 2017, this limited edition commemorative watch is essentially a reissue of the 1957 Speedmaster, complete with a 38.6mm steel case, matching steel bracelet, tri-compax dial, and an automatic movement inside.