If You Only Knew the Power: Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon

For connoisseurs of chronograph watches , there has never been a more exciting time to be in the market. Manufacturer updates to classic chronograph watch models present collectors with the widest variety of technology, style, and unique features ever. Herein, 300watches explores the advantages of Omega's scintillating “Speedmaster: Dark Side of the Moon.”

The new Speedmaster: Dark Side of the Moon features technologies that the NASA astronauts of the 1960s could only dream of wearing. The Zirconium-Oxide-ceramic case and bezel componentry defeat the ages-old scourge of scratches and nicks on high-end watches.

Chronographs are tools, and tools may see rough use. On the original Speedy Pro's mineral crystal and steel case, scratches formed easily and stood out from the finish in stark contrast. With the Dark Side's ceramic, the entire watch becomes as resilient as its sapphire crystal; only diamond can mar its surface.

The Dark Side updates the Speedmaster case to suit modern tastes. The 42mm original has come to appear quaint compared to the scale and substance of contemporary competitors. The Dark Side, by comparison, measures a robust 44.25mm across. Legibility is excellent, and 18k-white-gold hour indexes boast multiple applications of Super Luminova yielding an all-night glow.

Inside, Omega proves that its engineering chops are as sharp as ever. The caliber-9300 movement, visible under a sapphire cover, represents the peak of the vaunted Swatch Group's technology tree.

Dual main barrels provide a superb 60-hour power reserve. A column-wheel function selector allows the chronograph functions to cycle with rifle-bolt precision. Silicon escapement and balance componentry defy magnetism, shock, and temperature variations to keep precise time.

Now in its fifteenth year, Omega's exclusive coaxial escapement has been mastered; Omega's coaxial watches don't leave the factory unless they exceed Swiss Chronometer standards.

Naturally, the original Speedmaster Professional retains its credentials as royalty among chronograph watches. The Pro was the first watch to walk with a man on the moon, and it remains the only watch approved by NASA for extra-atmospheric walks within the vacuum of space.

For the Dark Side of the Moon, however, Omega has introduced the most exciting development in Speedmaster chronographs since the original caliber-321 passed NASA trials in the '60s. While the Speedmaster Professional is like a classic muscle car, the Dark Side is like a modern supercar. The original still entertains, but the latest delivers performance beyond the scope of the old legend.Bekijk meer horloges rolex en chopard replica