The Omega Seamaster vs Speedmaster – the Charles Martin Comparison Guide

Having trouble choosing between the Omega Speedmaster and Omega Seamaster? Take a look at this comparison guide, along with some models we stock to figure out which is best for you.

Water resistance and moon landings, that’s what Omega is most renowned for. It just so happens that the brand’s two most famous watches are the Seamaster and the Speedmaster – watches revered for their aquatic aspirations and contribution to space exploration respectively. But which one should you choose? Both have earned their status and their place in horological history. But when it all boils down to it, one or the other is going to be better suited to your needs and your tastes. If you’re pondering whether to buy the Omega Speedmaster or the Seamaster this year, read this short but detailed comparison guide. 

The History and Evolution of the Omega Seamaster 

The first Omega Seamaster arrived in 1948. Originally, this water-resistant design was intended for use by the military, but soon became a popular option for civilians too. As the design evolved, Omega experts began categorising different Seamaster models into their sub-collections. By 1995, the Seamaster watch was on the silver screen, strapped to the wrist of James Bond in the “GoldenEye” film. 

History and Evolution of the Omega Speedmaster 

The Speedmaster is the younger of the two, arriving in 1957. If you’re new to Omega, you may not realise the Speedmaster was originally intended as a racing chronograph and was worn by racing drivers behind the wheel. That all changed in the 1960s, however, when NASA needed a reliable instrument for its space missions. Omega secured the deal with its trusty Speedmaster design and was chosen as the official watch for the Apollo missions. Indeed, this is where the iconic “Moonwatch” nickname derived from. Its most famous moment of all was during the Apollo 11 mission, where Buzz Aldrin stepped foot on the moon with the Speedmaster strapped to his wrist. 

Design features of the Omega Seamaster 

One key practical feature that the Omega Seamaster is most famous for is its superior water resistance, which stretches from a mere 100 meters, right up to 600 meters. For this reason, sportsgoers and adventure-seekers find this watch incredibly appealing. Some models feature helium escape valves and all boast a unidirectional rotating bezel for measuring elapsed time underwater, along with a durable case construction. Omega experts use steel, sapphire crystal and ceramic to ensure superior durability, whilst also treating the key timekeeping features of the dial with Super-LumiNova material.

Design Features of the Omega Speedmaster 

The Speedmaster is the sportier of the two, featuring a three-counter chronograph layout with sub-dials arranged in the 3-6-9 layout. Most impressively, its design has remained largely unchanged over the years, save for improved materials and movements, of course. The benefit of the Omega chronograph’s timing features prove great for monitoring personal bests, yet it is the tachymeter bezel that allows you to measure speed based on distance, constituting a great addition to timing circuit laps for those who wish to use their Speedy for its intended purpose.

Examples of the Omega Seamaster

The Seamaster is one of Omega’s broadest and most diverse collections. The 42mm Omega Seamaster 210.32.42.20.01.001, for example, is a great option for anyone looking to extend their collection with a solid daily beater. Its 300-meter water-resistant steel case is paired with a black dial and a matching ceramic bezel. A domed sapphire crystal glass front helps protect the dial from dust, impact, moisture, light and scratching, while underneath the display lies the Omega 1120 Calibre with a 44-hour power reserve.

Other Omega Seamaster examples include the Planet Ocean Chronograph reference 232.30.46.51.01.003 – a professional dive tool that promises a water-resistant rating of 600 meters. This is a broad 45.5mm black dial model with vibrant shots of orange across its display and a helium escape valve at 10 o’clock for exploring daring depths of water. Aside from its water-ready features, the Planet Ocean is a chronograph complication, featuring a 12-hour totaliser at 3H and a small seconds sub-dial at 9H. Together with a robust steel bracelet and a unidirectional rotating bezel, this is an all-around, wear-it-everyday timepiece that can double up as a professional underwater tool whenever you may need it.  

Examples of the Omega Speedmaster

You can still purchase the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch with a 42mm stainless steel case and matching bracelet, a hesalite crystal, and a manual winding Calibre 1861. But, there are examples like the Omega Speedmaster Racing models too, in different dial colours, complete with a distinctive minute track. There’s also the Speedmaster ’57 – a tribute design to the original – some of which measure a true to form 38.6mm case.

The model reference 331.10.42.51.01.002 features a classic black dial and bi-compax chronograph dial placed on an east-west axis. Inside its robust 41.5mm steel case is the brand’s Co-Axial 9300 Calibre, complete with a 60-hour power reserve thanks to two barrels mounted in series. The movement also features a silicone balance spring and sits inside a 100-meter water-resistant case. For collectors who take great interest in the history of Omega as a brand, this Speedmaster ’57 is a great addition to own, and is no longer in production, augmenting its appeal all the more.

Conclusion

It may have been the Omega Seamaster that arrived first, soon becoming a firm favourite amongst avid diving enthusiasts and the watch of choice for the world’s most famous secret service agent. But it was the Speedmaster that bears the most historical significance to the brand when it comes to space exploration.

Choosing between the two is quite a challenge. The Omega Speedmaster is the watch that often strikes an emotional connection with devoted Omega fans, mainly because it’s an iconic chronograph that nods to an important time in Omega’s history. On the other hand, the Seamaster can face adverse outdoor conditions and is made to stand the test of time as a robust tool watch. Choosing between the two comes down to intended use, budget and, of course, style.

As an Omega Accredited Service Centre we are a stockist of pre-owned Omega watches, we have an impressive range of Speedmaster and Seamaster models to choose from here at Charles Martin Watch Company. Drop by and explore our selection in person, call and speak to our friendly sales team on 01889 560 002 or email us at sales@charlesmartinwatchcompany.com, where we’ll be happy to assist you further.