Although the new Omega Speedmaster Racing (ref. 326.32.40.50.06.001) chronograph takes the iconic collection back to the classic tri-compax layout (as you probably know, unlike more modern versions, the original 1957 Speedmaster that was powered by the legendary Omega caliber 321 hand-wound mechanism featured only the usual three hands for displaying time, as well as three chronograph sub-dials with no calendar), the redesigned timepiece still offers you a highly legible dial and all the signature elements that you can expect from the watch that accompanied the first man on the Moon, including the famous tachymeter scale, which is engraved right on the black fixed bezel and painted glaring yellow.
Compared to currently available Speedmasters, the 2012 Speedmaster Racing comes in a visibly smaller body. While still measuring impressive 15 millimeters in height, the round case is only 40 millimeters wide.
The choice of more compact size not only helps the watch to look more vintage-style, but also makes it a more appropriate choice for those who plan to wear the accessory with business suits, military uniform (including, but not limited to a fighter jet pilot’s blackout suits,) and this kind of formal dress.
As usual for the range, the chosen color scheme offers a clean, easy-to-read layout. While the hour and minute hands are traditionally thin, there is still enough lume for the Speedmaster Racing Chronograph to be highly legible even in darkness.
According to Omega’s press release, the watch is animated by their new Caliber 3330 automatic movement.
Equipped with their proprietary co-axial escapement system, the movement also features a non-magnetic, ultra-lightweight Si14 silicon balance spring.
Based on the recently introduced ETA A08.231 blank caliber and adapted for the Omega’s higher standards of quality at their own production facilities, the movement is officially certified as a chronometer according to the strictest guidelines of the Swiss-based COSC certification authority.
As you are probably well aware, early iterations of Omega’s co-axial movements were often plagued by technical problems, so, in order to demonstrate to potential buyers that the company learned its lessons and significantly improved both the design of the escapement, as well as the manufacturing process, the Swiss watchmaker offers the watch with a pleasantly extensive warranty of whole four years!
Judging by the photos, the watch will be available with at least two color schemes for its dial and on at least two choices of straps -a steel bracelet or a black rubber band with yellow Speedmaster inscription- and is planned to be offered at a pretty much reasonable price of $4800.
See also: Omega Spacemaster Z-33 Analog Digital Flight Computer (ref. 325.92.43.79.01.001)
Photos: Omega Watches
Omega Speedmaster Racing Chronograph (ref. 326.32.40.50.06.001) specification
Price: $4800
Movement: Automatic, Caliber 3330, Co-Axial escapement, Si14 silicon balance spring, base ETA A08.231, COSC-certified chronometer, Swiss Made
Number of jewels: 31
Movement frequency: 28,800 vph
Power reserve: 52 hours
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph, date
Case: Stainless steel, polished and brushed finish
Shape: Round
Size: 40.00 mm
Case height: 15.05 mm
Dial: Vertically brushed, grey or black
Numerals: Arabic
Hour markers: Baton-shaped
Hands: Luminous
Water resistance: 100 meters
Strap: Black rubber strap with yellow “Speedmaster” inscription or patented screw-and-pin steel bracelet with foldover clasp
Crystal: Sapphire, domed, anti-reflective on both sides
Back: Screw-down, stainless steel, stamped with seahorse medallion