Discover the Reimagined Speedmaster 38: A Compact Chronograph with Iconic DNA
The Evolution of a Compact Icon: From Speedmaster Reduced to Modern 38mm
For many years, Omega provided a compelling alternative to its iconic Moonwatch through the Speedmaster Reduced, an automatic version with a smaller profile. Produced from 1988 until roughly 2010, the 3510.50 model filled a niche for those who appreciated the Speedmaster's heritage but preferred a more modest size. While the 42mm hand-wound Speedmaster Professional eventually overshadowed it in demand, Omega continued to explore smaller automatic variants, notably within its Broad Arrow collection featuring the F. Piguet 1285-based caliber 3303.
Introducing the Latest Speedmaster 38 Collection: Blending Heritage with Contemporary Style
The original Speedmaster Reduced line eventually ceased production. However, Omega recognized the enduring appeal of a smaller Speedmaster, particularly for a unisex market. In 2017, the brand launched the Speedmaster 38, initially a versatile collection, though its black-dial variant, distinguished by its round sub-dials, resonated most with male wearers. Building on the success of last year's Olympic Games edition, Omega has now replaced its previous Speedmaster 38 offerings with seven new references. Among these, one model notably evokes the spirit of the Speedmaster Reduced 3510.50, marking a significant return to its design roots.
Omega's Vision for the Speedmaster 38: A Deeper Connection to the Moonwatch Legacy
According to Raynald Aeschlimann, Omega's President and CEO, the new Speedmaster 38 collection further enhances its connection to the Moonwatch. He states that the updated models draw more deeply from the Moonwatch's inspiration, enriching the Speedmaster's core identity while maintaining the refined and distinctive character that the 38mm range is celebrated for. This strategic evolution ensures that the compact Speedmaster remains a vital part of the brand's heritage, offering a blend of tradition and modern appeal.
The Allure of the Speedmaster 38 'Reduced' Variant: A Classic Revisited
Among the newly released Speedmaster 38 models, the black-dial version stands out for its strong resemblance to the vintage Speedmaster Reduced 3510.50. While other new references feature diverse color palettes and incorporate a date complication, including two embellished with diamond-set bezels, the black-dial 'Reduced' variant captures the essence of its predecessor. It offers a cleaner, more classic aesthetic that aligns closely with the original Moonwatch design, making it a favorite for purists.
Advanced Movement Technology: Powering the New Speedmaster 38 Timepieces
The black-dial Speedmaster 38 is powered by the Omega caliber 3332, a no-date chronograph movement. In contrast, the other six models are equipped with the caliber 3330, which includes a date function. Both movements feature Omega's renowned Co-Axial escapement and are COSC-certified chronometers, ensuring exceptional accuracy and reliability. Operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering a 52-hour power reserve, these rhodium-plated movements are meticulously decorated with Côtes de Genève finishing, visible on the rotor and bridges. The Omega logo and text on the rotor are accented with striking red fills, adding a touch of elegance.
Enhanced Wearing Comfort: The Modern Speedmaster Bracelet
The new Speedmaster 38 models are presented on a bracelet reminiscent of the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch's iconic 'Nixon' bracelet. This design, which harks back to the gold BA145.022 offered to President Nixon, features a predominantly brushed finish, with two rows of polished smaller links providing subtle contrast. While the black-dial version and the white-dial model with a blue bezel maintain this brushed aesthetic, other models in the collection incorporate a polished center link. The bracelet also includes a patented 'comfort release' adjustment system, offering a 2.3mm extension for a personalized fit, and tapers elegantly from 18mm at the case to 15mm at the clasp.
Precision Craftsmanship: Dimensions and Case Details of the Speedmaster 38
All Speedmaster 38 models feature a 38mm case diameter, a lug-to-lug measurement of 44.96mm, and a profile thickness of 14.75mm. A significant upgrade for many enthusiasts is the impressive 100-meter water resistance rating. The case finishing varies slightly across models; for instance, the black-dial Speedmaster 38 boasts a brushed case body with polished bevels. Similarly, the model with a gray aluminum bezel features a brushed case, while the white-dial variant with a blue bezel showcases a fully polished case body. Each watch is equipped with a 'Dot Over Ninety' bezel, a classic Speedmaster hallmark. The black-dial version weighs approximately 137 grams, with other models varying slightly depending on material accents. The solid stainless steel screw-in case back is adorned with Omega's famous hippocampus medallion in bas-relief and the 'Speedmaster' inscription.
On-Wrist Impressions: A Perfect Fit for Smaller Wrists
Among the seven new Speedmaster 38 references, the black-dial 'Reduced' variant, with its contrasting white baton hands, stands out as the purest and most faithful to the Moonwatch aesthetic. While the author, accustomed to larger 42mm Moonwatches, finds the 38mm slightly small for his 18cm wrist, he acknowledges its ideal fit for those with smaller wrists. The approximately 37mm bezel diameter of the Speedmaster 38 makes it wear noticeably more compactly compared to the 40mm appearance of the Moonwatch or Speedmaster Calibre 321, making it a highly desirable option for a subtler wrist presence.
Availability and Pricing: Exploring the New Speedmaster 38 Collection
The black-dial Speedmaster 38 (reference 324.30.38.50.01.002) is available for €6,400 (including VAT), US$6,500 (excluding sales tax), or CHF 5,100 (excluding VAT). The white-dial, blue-bezel model (reference 324.30.38.50.04.001) is priced at €7,000 (including VAT), US$7,100 (excluding sales tax), or CHF 5,500 (excluding VAT). The gray-bezel version (reference 324.30.38.50.02.003) retails for €6,600 (including VAT), US$6,700 (excluding sales tax), or CHF 5,200 (excluding VAT). Additional models include the 'cappuccino' steel and Sedna Gold variant (reference 324.20.38.50.02.002, €11,500), the green-bezel steel and Moonshine Gold version (reference 324.20.38.50.02.001, €11,500), and two full-steel references with diamond-set bezels: reference 324.15.38.50.03.001 (€12,100) with an ice-blue dial, and reference 324.15.38.50.05.001 (€12,900) featuring a mother-of-pearl dial. Initial deliveries to Omega boutiques are scheduled for this week, with more details available on the official Omega website.