Okay, so, I’ve been eyeing the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch for a while now, and let me tell you, the open case back version is just… chef’s kiss. I finally pulled the trigger and bought one from the official flagship store. Let me walk you through the whole process.
First off, I did a ton of research. I mean, this is a big purchase, right? I dug into the history of the Moonwatch, its features, and all that jazz. The more I read, the more I wanted it. I found out that earlier models had a single beveled design for the case back and they were called pre-moon. But the newer models? Oh boy, they’ve got that beautiful open case back that lets you see the movement inside. I gotta say I agree with those who said Speedy deserved an open case back! Some people online were saying they wished OMEGA would offer the hesalite crystal with the exhibition case back, and apparently, they did at some point, but not anymore.
There are two options: one with a sapphire top and a see-through case back, and another with a solid back. I went for the sapphire and see-through one, I mean, I wanted to see all the inner workings. The movement, the calibre 1861, it’s like a tiny city in there!
Now, I was a little torn between getting a brand new one or hunting down a vintage model from 1996, the year I was born. I found some online discussions about this. It’s cool to have a watch from your birth year, but a new one comes with a warranty and all that good stuff. So, I decided to play it safe and go for the new one.
I went straight to the OMEGA flagship store. I’d heard that buying pre-owned is an option, and some places offer warranties and insured delivery but let’s be real, nothing beats the feeling of buying it brand new from the source.
When I got there, the staff were super helpful. They showed me the different versions, explained the options (leather strap or stainless steel bracelet), and answered all my questions. They even let me try it on, and bam! Love at first sight. Or, should I say, love at first wear?
- Making the Purchase: The buying process was smooth. Paid the money, got the box, the papers, the whole nine yards. Felt pretty darn good.
- Unboxing: Got home, and the unboxing was an experience in itself. The presentation, the quality, it’s all top-notch.
- Wearing It: I’ve been wearing it for almost a year now, and it’s still the most expensive watch I own. Feels great on the wrist, and I can’t stop staring at that open case back.
Checking for Authenticity
By the way, I did check the serial number to make sure it was legit. From what I read online, some fake OMEGAs use the same serial number for multiple watches. Mine checked out, thankfully. Also, I looked at the Constellation “Star” on the back, and it’s raised and 3D, just like it should be. Apparently, on fakes, it’s just a flat star. And the date window? It’s not a perfect rectangle; it has these little edges, which is another sign of authenticity. So, all good on that front.
All in all, I’m thrilled with my purchase. It’s an investment, for sure, but these watches tend to hold their value, especially the vintage ones and limited editions. It’s a piece of history on my wrist, and I’m proud to be a part of the Moonwatch legacy.
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