In anticipation of Baselworld 2014, Omega presents an update to the iconic 1969 Speedmaster Mark II. While most of the changes are on the inside (including an in-house co-axial movement), the first thing you'll notice is that the tonneau-style case has remained unaltered, lending a retro look to this watch. Both the case and bracelet are brushed stainless steel, which works nicely with both dial options, one more understated than the other. Details are still a little sparse, but here's your first look at this brand new Speedy.
The original 1969 Mark II used Omega's Calibre 861 ?a movement that tends to be very high-up on the wish list of any hardcore Omega collector. This more budget-friendly take on the cal. 321 was fully tested in the demanding environments of space (post-1969) and has proven to be a dependable workhorse across models like the Speedmaster Pro and orignial Mark II.
The new Mark II however uses the co-axial calibre 3330, an automatic movement with silicon balance spring and column-wheel chronograph mechanism (the 861 was the non-column wheel version of the 321, in case you were wondering). The silicon balance spring adds to the movement's durability, and is something Omega has been using in other models as well, including the Speedmaster Racing.
Overall, not too much has changed in terms of design. On one version, the dial ?like the 1969 original ?remains mostly monochromatic, with subdued white hour markers and hands set against a dark grey background. For anyone looking to make a statement, another version based on the so-called "racing dial" Mark II features a bold fluorescent orange center chronograph seconds hand and bright hour markers in the minutes track that are sure to be noticed. There is no information yet on the size of this case, even if the profile looks like it mirrors the original pretty closely.
The Speedmaster Mark II will be available after Baselworld 2014, with the price and more details to come shortly. For more information, visit Omega online.
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