Omega Launches New Moonswatch to Celebrate 60th Anniversary of NASA Trials

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — Omega has announced the launch of a new non-limited edition Moonswatch in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Omega Speedmaster becoming the first watch to be flight-qualified by NASA. The release date is set for March 1, 2025, marking six decades since Omega’s original Speedmaster underwent rigorous testing.

The new model bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Speedmaster that was tested in 1965. While the original reference, the ref. 105.003, featured a black dial, the new Moonswatch flips the design on its head with a distinct white dial set in a grey Bioceramic case measuring 42mm wide and 13.25mm thick. The watch comes with a grey velcro strap.

For a nostalgic touch, Omega has revived the original Speedmaster’s logo, typeface, and hands, adding Swatch’s branding to the design as well. Enhanced features include updated chronograph counters that display blue-emission Super-LumiNova markings reading 19 and 65, replacing the usual 60 and 10. The running seconds subdial retains the familiar reading of 60, emphasizing the significance of the year 1965.

The movement inside the Moonswatch has also received an update, now counting a total of 19 hours and 65 minutes. This means that an hour will only be counted every 65 minutes. In a unique twist, the top two hands of the watch make a full rotation every 64 minutes, referred to as a ‘lap of honor’ by the brand.

Pricing for the new Moonswatch is set at $270, consistent with the pricing of other non-moonphase Moonswatches. It will be available at Swatch stores starting March 1, 2025.

“This release is a special homage to the Speedmaster and its legacy in space exploration,” said a representative from Omega. “We’re excited to bring this unique twist to a classic design while maintaining the spirit of innovation that the Speedmaster embodies.”

In addition to Omega’s homage to its heritage, collectors can expect a variety of reactions regarding the new features, particularly the unconventional timing system. “While the new colors are striking, the mechanical choices raise eyebrows,” noted watch enthusiast Jonathan Grey. “It will be interesting to see how this hybrid model is received in the long run.”

The Swatch Group and Omega have a storied partnership that dates back decades, continuously evolving to merge their unique characteristics into innovative products. This latest Moonswatch is a testament to their ongoing effort to merge fine watchmaking with accessible pricing, reflecting a trend in the watch industry toward more affordable luxury options.