OMEGA’s Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon
OMEGA’s newest release, the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon, is a testament to masterful expertise and serves as a tribute to OMEGA’s ties to Apollo 8. In 1968, OMEGA Speedmaster accompanied each astronaut on the first human flight to orbit the moon. Created with state-of-the-art technology and a rich palette of materials, these watches were instrumental throughout NASA’s lunar campaign. On the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 in 2018, OMEGA released the first Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon. This current launch elevates the original design with even finer detailing and craftsmanship.
The watch embodies the Moon itself. Its Calibre 3869 displays a laser-ablated Moon relief on the blackened main plate and bridges. The dial side represents our view of the lunar surface as seen from Earth, while the back unveils the dark side that only astronauts get to see. They gracefully mirror the two faces of the Moon. Correspondingly, laser engraving and contrasting surfaces further enhance the Moon’s definition. These features complement the grey-coated wheels beautifully in circular symmetry.
Details of OMEGA’s Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon
Hints of yellow accentuate the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon. From the varnish of the central chronograph second hand to the watch’s black rubber with a yellow interior perforated strap, yellow intensifies the watch’s unique aesthetic. Moreover, the manual-winding Calibre 3869 has achieved the Co-Axial Master Chronometer standard, providing customers with the Swiss industry’s highest level of precision and chronometric performance. Black anodized aluminium additionally heightens the Moon-decorated movement. Finally, OMEGA’s decision to use separate pieces of black ceramic for the 44.25 mm case, polished bezel, and caseback, contrasts elegantly with the tachymeter scale’s bright white “Grand Feu” enamel—the watch is Master Chronometer certified and reveals a high-level of lunar detailing.
Details of OMEGA’s Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon
Another unique detail is the patent-pending small-seconds hand at 9 o’clock. Engineered from Grade 5 Titanium, this delicate detail replicates NASA’s famous Saturn V rocket. Laser turning derived the powerful 3D structure while white varnish, ablation, and laser blackening developed the intense colours. This small but inspiring detail celebrates the success of the Apollo program. A series of engravings are inscribed on the caseback too. Notably, “WE’LL SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE”—the final words spoken to ground control just before the Apollo 8 mission disappeared to the far side of the Moon for the very first time. By and large, each element is truly a homage to astronomical discovery.
The Moon’s other side is a mystery satisfied only by astronauts of the highest calibre. Wearing this watch signifies an authentic connection with our lunar neighbour and OMEGA’s connection to space exploration. The Apollo 8 mission remains a reminder of what shared human power can achieve.
