New for Baselworld 2016, we see the release of the Omega Watches 999/655 Replica Speedmaster “CK2998” Limited Edition watch, a refreshed version of one of the original Omega Speedmasters, the CK2998. This new version opts for the familiar manual winding calibre 1861 movement but reimagines the dial with a splash of blue and some rhodium. It’s a simple equation, but the choice of blue and the decision to keep that classic movement in there sounds like a winning combination in a world full of Omega Speedmaster iterations.
Previously referred to as the Speedmaster Moonwatch Master Chronometer, Omega Watches Images Replica took the decision to re-brand this specific collection, focusing rather on its own history as a motor racing opinion. The new version stays true to the core aesthetic of this group, with its switching minute-track, and has a 44mm case diameter.A variety of different color options are available, while buyers also have the choice of either stainless steel or Senda gold. Among those strap options, which combines leather and orange rubber, has an extremely sporty look, while an aged brown leather strap is also available for people who would like a more classic look.Most Swiss luxury watch brands have been slow to adapt to the modern digital world, however as a powerful mainstream brand, Omega currently announcing online direct-to-consumer sales via its site is a sign of movement in the ideal direction. For the time being, the brand’s e-commerce is aimed toward the USA just, but Omega says that “more nations will follow in the near future” – and we can anticipate that more brands throughout the sector will continue to fall in line since well.Until today, one had to pay a visit to a Omega boutique to purchase directly from the new – and many subscribers are definitely familiar with this process and theory, even though they are definitely also acquainted with other methods of purchasing watches. Omega’s announcement eyeglasses the reason for offering online shopping as the capability to reach more clients which may not reside near a boutique. The pressure of the gray market, naturally, is not specifically mentioned, but Omega CEO Raynald Aeschlimann claims they “recognise that e-commerce is growing rapidly in the luxury sector and several of today’s customers use it as their main way to store.” It is good that they recognize that.
There are certainly going to be purists out there who will balk at the idea of the classic moonwatch being redone in different colors, but I’m not going to lie, the execution here just makes this a very cool piece for me. The An Omega Watch Replica Speedmaster Moonwatch Numbered Edition watch may have been a bit much with the Sedna gold finishing for enthusiasts who are more into the sportier side of the Speedmaster, plus it didn’t have the small touches like the “lollipop” chronograph seconds hand like we do here (granted, these are two slightly different original models). This watch perfectly fills that role of a casual everyday wear that has a contemporary edge but a lot of history packed inside.
The classic 39.7mm-wide case features a polished blue ceramic bezel and a white Super-LumiNova tachymeter scale. On the dial itself are applied rhodium-plated indices, that familiar “lollipop” chronograph seconds hand, as well as the hour and minute hands, all of which feature Super-LumiNova. On the back of the case, you’ll see the classic Speedmaster seahorse to pull together the look. No extraneous text on either the front or the back – always a good move.
Aesthetic changes aside, what makes this an Omega Watches History Models Replica Speedmaster Moonwatch is the ticking mechanical heart – the Calibre 1861 movement. The same movement used in the original Moonwatch, this manual calibre operates at 21,600 vph (3Hz) and provides a power reserve of 48 hours. For a lot of Speedmaster fanatics, the modernity of the case updates combined with the connection to the original movement will be a tempting lure.
Whereas the Omega Speedmaster ’57 Vintage’ watch was concerned with taking the classic aesthetic and upgrading the inside with a 9300 Co-Axial movement, we kind of get the opposite here. A fresh contemporary take that retains the major visual cues aside from color while retaining the “soul” of the Calibre 1861 can be seen as just another way to market a new Speedmaster. I suppose it is, actually. But it looks cool and isn’t fussed with to the point of being an unrecognizable heir, so what’s the harm? Plus, that blue leather strap looks great.
The new-for-2016 Omega Speedmaster CK2998 Limited Edition watch will have a limited run of 2,998 pieces, the number of which can be seen on the case back. I really want to try this piece on and see it in person because I think that’s when the use of the blue will really translate, as photos can only do so much justice. Price for this piece is 5,400 CHF. omegawatches.com