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Omega celebrates the first human flight to orbit the moon with a new Speedmaster

Despite how large the sun appears in our sky, the moon is the closest celestial body to Earth. And for thousands of years, it has remained a great source of intrigue for all civilisation. One year before man was able to set foot on the moon, however, in 1968, Apollo 8 became the first ever human flight to orbit Earth’s only natural satellite. More than 50 years ago these pioneering astronauts were the first human beings to experience the dark side of the moon and it has been well documented that all of them wore Speedmasters.

To celebrate this milestone for humanity, in 2018 Omega launched the first Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 and this year they have updated the watch with even more mooninspired details. The most noticeable of which is the relief of the moon’s surface that you will find on the dial side of this watch. Fantastically, on the back of the movement, Omega has also created a laser-ablated moon relief on the blackened mainplate and bridges. While the dial side represents the view of the moon as seen from Earth, on the back, through the transparent caseback, one will see the other side of the moon.

Interestingly we only ever see one side of the moon even though the moon itself rotates on its own axis. This is due to a phenomenon called tidal locking where the gravitational pull of the Earth adjusts the moon’s spin so that it is in perfect sync with the rotation of Earth. Therefore, it was only when Apollo 8 orbited the moon, that we managed to catch a glimpse of the “far side of the moon” as it is often called.

The other cool feature, and I think most posted on social media, is the fact that instead of a traditional small seconds hand, Omega has managed to swap it out for a tiny little rocket modelled after NASA’s Saturn V. As the seconds tick away, this little rocket spins around on the subdial almost as if it is weightlessly floating in space. This tiny little miniature also has a patent-pending status because it has been engineered from grade 5 titanium, sculpted via a laser turning process and the colours were achieved through white varnish, ablation and laser blackening. Talk about high tech.

As for the case, it is made from black ceramic along with an anodised aluminium dial which is fitting with this whole aerospace theme. Its lightness, at only 99 grams, is also welcomed because even though the movement is a manualwinding Calibre 3869, it still sits quite hefty on the wrist at 13mm high and 44.25mm in diameter.

Getting A Complication Watch is Far Easier

Perhaps the strangest element in this new boom for mechanical watches is the short shrift complicated watches are getting. But wait, we can almost hear you protest, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is a chronograph, after all, and so is the Omega Speedmaster for that matter. These are facts, but we would argue that hardly anyone wants either of those watches because they are chronographs. The Moonwatch, in particular, and the Daytona, in general, have symbolic values that far exceed their functions. On the other hand, a collector who seeks out the Patek Philippe ref. 5172 probably does want it specifically because it is a chronograph. This is perhaps even clearer if the collector in question also had Ref. 7071 in his sights, or already safely ensconced in his vault. Yes, the gender of the collector also says something here, but that is perhaps a different discussion.

To break down the matter of complications, or feature sets if you prefer, this is about what is easy to understand and compare. Dive watches, bound as they are by codes both formal and informal, can easily be compared with one another. Does the watch in question have the right ISO certification? How’s the lowlight visibility? Can the bracelet be easily swapped out? There are many more such questions, which can all be fairly applied to any sort of dive watch, including those that merely look the part, or those that do the job but do not have the right looks. For complications, there are no easy comparisons to be had. To put it as simply as possible, you might like a Breguet tourbillon model, such as the Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Squelette ref. 5395, or you might prefer something like the Franck Muller Vanguard Skeleton Tourbillon; then again, you might also prefer your tourbillon low-key, for example in the Patek Philippe Ref. 5316P. There are no useful comparisons to be had between these watches, and no tourbillon wristwatch stands as a benchmark for the industry.

Returning to the chronograph for a moment, there are all manner of executions, including electronic ones. This complication is one half of a duo of popular functions that represents the most significant share of exported Swiss watches, according to the FH. This should mean that the chronograph should be highly sought after, but in practice, you can search for the most iconic pieces such as the Breitling Navitimer or the TAG Heuer Carrera and see what the prices you find tell you. Watchfinder in particular offers the promise of the best price (for buyers) so you might want to use this as a benchmark of sorts. To summarise, what you will find are prices well below-recommended retail, for watches that are not limited in some way, such as some versions of the TAG Heuer Monaco and the Snoopy/Speedy series from Omega.

READ MORE: The Timeless Appeal Of Steel Watches

From chronographs, it only goes downhill for pre-owned complicated models. YouTube creator Jenni Elle explains this quite logically by noting that such watches have very narrow appeal, meaning buyers may not immediately snap these up. You only need to consider for a moment why you would buy a chronograph from Tudor over one from Breitling, when both use the same base movement (with modifications of course), to use an example we used previously in issue #45. Whatever the reasons, they probably do not make sense to resellers, traders and grey market dealers, to be blunt. On the other hand, here is where you can find truly excellent value from the pre-owned market in general, if you want the Breitling chronograph. This is where we would argue the real utility of pre-owned comes into play: finding great complications at great prices.

Speaking of Watchfinder, the signature narrator — with disembodied — hands has been talking up complexity this year and this may be nothing more than clickbait and a nod to the power of his own platform. In one video, he pointed out that collectors who have shaped the market price for timepieces in years past are now up against the entire Internet. While this is particularly relevant to address the issue of scarcity, and we will return to it, it also strikes at the intriguing possibility of rekindling the legendary competition between James Ward Packard and Henry Graves Jr. Collectors have already cornered the most important segment in haute horlogerie: chiming watches from a handful of watchmakers. These have always been timepieces that are beyond the reach of mere money — to buy these you have to be in the good graces of the watchmaker in question. These watches are also undeniably rare because only a handful can be made in any given year by any given watchmaker — many individual pieces will take years to complete.

READ MORE: What You Need To Know While Looking For Preowned Watches

As traders themselves consider moving themselves up the value chain, they must consider if they want to emulate Packard and Graves Jr. To be clear, that will mean leaving behind the silly world of LNIB as encapsulated in the example of the infamous Antiquorum sale of the Patek Philippe Ref. 5711A. That aside, the Nautilus is the perfect starting point because if one wants to stick with steel models, then the story begins with Ref. 5712/1A, but the collection is a good place to get to grips with smaller complications. Since we are using the chronograph to illustrate a point here, we must move to the Aquanaut Ref. 5968A because the Nautilus only has chronographs in gold.

Unlike the tourbillon, there are a wealth of options for the chronograph lover, even when it comes to the exact elapsed time it tracks. It is also an interactive feature, which adds to the complexity of how the chronograph is valued. There is no good way to sell how the chronograph feels to casual buyers and those who do not care for what might be heavy research. Indeed, to explain the specificities of even one complication will take too long — not just for this segment but such an explainer will easily overtake the entire section.

As we have implied, most traders and flippers will not have the patience for complications. This is where collectors who have invested time, effort and money into their passion have the edge. Why? Because collectors can take advantage of great deals in the pre-owned space. These deals exist because of the aforementioned weaknesses in the trader space, hence the strong preference there for simple timepieces.

This does not mean traders do not know that complicated watches are in far shorter supply than their simpler counterparts. They just do not know what direction to strike in. As we noted last year, we think the opportunity is in small series production of small complications, such as the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso DuoTime, the Montblanc Geosphere and the Franck Muller Crazy Hours. These all play well with the Patek Philippe Ref. 5712/1A and its multiple small complications, although they are all well below the $64,300 retail price and most certainly far short of its resale market value. Interestingly, Ref. 5968A retails for $70,200 and Ref. 5905/1A — which combines the same style of chronograph with the Patek Philippe signature annual calendar — goes for $81,100.

While you mull over the above prices, do recall that Ref. 5711/1A-010 has a (notional) market value of several hundred thousand dollars, and all the above Patek Philippe references are complicated models that are certainly much more uncommon. On that note, to step outside the Patek Philippe and chronograph bubbles for a moment, tourbillon wristwatches in gold have sold in online marketplace for under $20,000. If that does not convince you that complicated wristwatches constitute an important opportunity for buyers right now, we do not know what will.

For more watch reads, click here.

What You Need To Know While Looking For Preowned Watches

The business of pre-owned watches is nothing new, no pun intended. In fact, this section might be punctuated by puns but none are intentional, unless otherwise indicated. There is a lot to get through so we will try to play it straight.

The advance in the pre-owned watch business has transformed the watch collecting in unforeseen ways. It has done this primarily by changing the perceived value of watches. Now the idea behind buying a watch that’s got some wrist time on it is the same as buying a used or secondhand car. Everyone accepts that when you buy a car, what you have is an object with depreciating capital value. In fact, you will lose value on your purchase the moment you drive it off the lot, as they say in the movies. This is also true of watches, by and large. Of course there are exceptions, and those typically prove their worth at public auctions over the years. This has been true for so long that only these few lines were necessary to explain buying a watch pre-owned. Things are quite different in 2022.

There are new fair market prices for many watch models, totally divorced from the recommended retail price, and you might buy a current production watch several years old that has never been worn, from a third or fourth owner. It would have been unimaginable, just five or six years ago, to buy a current core collection watch from a second-hand dealer at anything even close to the recommended retail price. Try getting a new Rolex Submariner with that mindset and see how far it gets you. Welcome to a world where the now-discontinued Patek Philippe Ref. 5711/1A might cost you more at a secondhand dealer than, say, Ref. 3711 (a watch in white gold mind you). For collectors, which Patek Philippe Nautilus reference to acquire is a serious question, to which there could be many answers. There is a simple problem here that we can use our previous automobile example to elaborate on.

**READ MORE: Patek Philippe Ref. 5711/1A Sets Auction Record**

Sticking with the Patek Philippe Ref. 5711A, let us fast-forward to 2026, which happens to be the 50th anniversary of the Nautilus watch. For this exercise, let us also imagine that Ref. 5711A is your grail watch, and you have come to this decision — or realisation as it may be — after years of consideration. While Patek Philippe itself is inviting you to celebrate the anniversary with a specific reference that marks the occasion, you decide to pull the trigger on Ref. 5711A instead. By chance, in the swirling eddies of the deepest reaches of the Internet, you have found a dealer with the reference you want. It is unworn and still in its box — LNIB or like-new-in-box with factory seals intact. By this time, the premium on this model has achieved stratospheric heights that owners of the Ref. 5711/1A can only smile ruefully at. Would you buy this watch, unseen in the metal, take delivery and actually wear it? If so, take a moment to consider the state of the watch you are buying.

Patek Philippe factory warranties are good for two years so you have passed that mark — as noted previously, time starts ticking on the warranty from the moment it is sold by the authorised dealer. The manufacture recommends service intervals of between three to five years, and this is a standard advice from most watchmakers. Given all this, buying a watch that has been sitting in a safe or something for beyond this period, never having been checked even once by its owner, seems suspect. Would you buy a car that you intend to drive in this way?

Of course, this is an extreme example, and traders certainly do not intend to hold onto their inventory for extended periods (as noted earlier). They are not enjoying their watches, after all. Standard fare such as the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, Tudor Black Bay or Omega Speedmaster must all be turned around as quickly as possible, while the market is hot. Even something that might be a little special, such as the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 15202ST will be treated the same. Traders are, as Watchcollecting.com’s Adrian Hailwood said, only buying watches because a market exists for them; to them, the watches may have no value beyond the market price.

It is for this reason, if no other, that we prefer to buy from people who actually wear their watches. They will at least know the state of any watches they are selling, and spend a little time taking care of their pieces. They might even be a little sad to sell certain watches, and we can relate to that. To be perfectly clear, we support the idea of collectors selling their own watches, especially if they have stopped wearing them, or any given watch stops being interesting to them. It happens that one falls out of love with a watch, even if that watch is the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon, or the Rolex Daytona. Such a watch will certainly be sought-after by plenty of people, and they ought to have a shot at it. And this brings us to a sustainability issue…

**READ MORE: The WOW Conversation: Sustainability in Watchmaking**

Although it is mainly fashion brands that get the bad press about destroying their own unsold inventory, watch and jewellery brands certainly do the same. Just as Burberry continues to be mentioned for a 2018 decision to destroy US$38 million of unsold goods, Richemont admitted — also in 2018 — to buying back and destroying US$560 million worth of watches from Cartier, Piaget and Vacheron Constantin (according to Forbes). In watches and jewellery, brand executives tell us that they always attempt to recycle their raw materials, and that is the approach they prefer to take with unsold inventory.

Nevertheless, we are gratified to see older watches get their due at Cartier, which now sells restored pieces in their own boutiques. These are limited to watches from the 1970s to the 2010s so it is broad enough to include pieces that have passed their prime. Such services are really quite useful because entire collections have been known to come into their own long after their debuts. This includes the now mighty Cosmograph Daytona of course — in watchmaking, it takes time to build an iconic reputation.

For more watch reads, click here.

Omega and Swatch collaborate to reimagine the Speedmaster Moonwatch

Omega and Swatch have come together to ace the collab culture with an unexpected watch collection launch.

Taking its name from the wordplay of Swatch and Moonwatch, the BIOCERAMIC MoonSwatch collection reimagines the Speedmaster Moonwatch with a dynamic twist and a spectrum of rarely seen colours.

Staying authentic to the Speedmaster Moonwatch’s heritage, the collection draws its inspiration from space to bring to life 11 models named after the planetary bodies in our solar system – from the sun to the ice giant and the dwarf planet.

The watches are crafted in Swatch’s patented BIOCERAMIC, an innovative sustainable blend of ceramic and bio-sourced plastic the watchmaker introduced in 2021. From the asymmetrical case to the Speedmaster subdials, the unmistakable identities of Speedmaster Moonwatch stay, reinterpreted in a curated palette inspired by the planets.

To top it off, each MoonSwatch is finished with its own mission statement and a depiction of its planet on the battery cover.

Swipe the gallery to take a look at the BIOCERAMIX MoonSwatch collection:

The BIOCERAMIX MoonSwatch collection will be available exclusively at Swatch Pavilion on 26th March 2021.

This article was originally published on www.lofficielmalaysia.com.

Watch Out: The Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M by Omega

How to make the heavenly stars and hypnotic oceans converge with a modern twist on your wrist?

It seems Omega’s answer to this is manifested in the Seamaster Aqua Terre 150M Co-Axial Master Chronometer Ladies 38 mm, rendered in Sedna™ Gold and stainless steel.

Used by Omega since 2012, the exclusive 18K Sedna™ Gold is named after Sedna, an orbiting planetoid known to be one of the reddest in the solar system. The fiery rose gold alloy may appear similar to other 18k golds, but its high resistance to colour and lustre fading over time is a triumph, thanks to a unique and stable composition that includes copper and palladium. Juxtaposed with 316L stainless steel for this Seamaster Aqua Terre 150M iteration, a conventional but beautiful and affordable metal meets the precious 18K Sedna™ Gold in a lustrous and corrosion-free perfect match that prevails in the face of high-stress situations and constant daily wear.

Conceived from oceanic inspirations, this Seamaster Aqua Terre is an unmistakably elegant creation whose design is anchored in elements emanating a marine spirit. The agate dial features a subtle yet stunning wave pattern, punctuated by a date window at 6 o’clock. Shaped like sailboat hulls, the indexes, accented in 18K Sedna™ gold, perpetuate the nautical narrative of the timepiece—also endowed with hour, minute and second hands in 18K Sedna™ gold.

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The watch’s bold and contemporary sensibility, defined by a symmetrical case and integrated bracelet, allows it to effortlessly resonate with both city slickers as well as active, outdoorsy types. But foremost is what drives the Seamaster Aqua Terre 150M—the OMEGA Master Chronometer Calibre 8800, which is tested by the Official Swiss Chronometer Control (COSC) with precision criteria of -4/+6 seconds per day. The complete watch and its movement have also undergone eight Master Chronometer tests set by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) with criteria of 0/+6 seconds per day. Its revolutionary components—from the Co-Axial escapement for long-lasting precision to the silicon balance spring for superior anti-magnetism—ensure the highest standards of performance.

To appreciate all the fine inner workings of the self-winding movement with a 55-hour power reserve, a domed synthetic sapphire crystal case back—treated to be scratch-resistant and anti-reflective on both sides—allows one the privilege to do so with ease.

Visit omegawatches.com to find out more.

This article was originally published on www.lofficielmalaysia.com.

Through The Decades: Omega Speedmaster Moon Watch (1957 – 2021)

An icon that has withstood the test of time, let us celebrate the evolution of the OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch, from its first launch to its latest version, with an extensive timeline guide of the watch.

1957 – THE SPEEDMASTER IS BORN

In 1957, OMEGA went on a mission to create a robust chronograph that would be waterproof, easy to read, easy to use and exceedingly precise. From this, the OMEGA Speedmaster was launched and became particularly notable for being the first watch in the world to feature a tachymeter scale on its bezel. It was powered by the Calibre 321, a column-wheel movement that would become synonymous with reliability, accuracy and technical beauty.

1963 – THE NASA REQUEST

It was at the end of Project Mercury that NASA astronauts approached their Operations Director, Deke Slayton, and asked to be issued with a reliable watch for their manned missions into space. Slayton then issued a request for “high-quality chronographs” in 1964 and forwarded it to different watch manufacturers around the world. Only four responded – including OMEGA, who sent a delivery of 3rd generation Speedmaster chronographs (105.003).

1965 – THE NASA QUALIFICATION

With NASA’s request, each watch company was asked to send “three wrist-worn chronographs” and these were tested under the most intense examinations imaginable – including thermal, shock, vibration and vacuum tests. Only the OMEGA Speedmaster survived these tests and it was declared “Flight Qualified for all Manned Space Missions” on the 1st of March 1965. Just three weeks later, the Speedmaster officially went into space for the first time on the wrists of Virgil “Gus” Grissom and John Young during the Gemini 3 mission.

1965 – THE MOONWATCH DESIGN

It was the 4th generation of the Speedmaster that provided subtle but important changes to the chronograph’s design. This is the style still associate today as being the original “Moonwatch”. It was the first Speedmaster with an asymmetrical case with twisted lugs, to provide added protection for the crown and pushers. For the first time, the word “Professional” was also printed on the dial. These 105.012 and 145.012 models are the very watches worn by Apollo 11 astronauts on the moon.

1969 – THE FIRST MOON LANDING

The moment Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin stepped onto the lunar surface for the first time in human history, the OMEGA Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the moon. It was an unprecedented achievement and took courage, innovation and unrivalled expertise to get there – a spirit perfectly reflected by the watches that the astronauts wore.

1970 – RESCUING APOLLO 13

The Apollo 13 mission should have been another successful moon landing for NASA and the OMEGA Speedmaster but it was instead was crippled by an on-board explosion. With the needing to conserve power, their electronic equipment could not be used. However, their OMEGA Speedmasters were literally on hand to save the day and were used to precisely time a series of engine burns that repositioned the craft and enabled its safe return to Earth.

1969-1972 – RETURNING TO THE MOON

The Speedmaster Moonwatch has been worn by the crews of all six lunar landings in history. After that first Giant Leap with Apollo 11 in 1969, it again accompanied the astronauts of Apollo 12, 14, 15, 16 and 17. Notable moments include the Apollo 16 mission in 1972, when Lunar Module Pilot Charles Duke left a photograph of his family on the moon’s surface. That same year, Commander Eugene Cernan of Apollo 17 left the last human footprints – until the day that mankind finally returns.

1975 – APOLLO- SOYUZ

Russian cosmonauts and American astronauts wore Speedmaster chronographs during a historic meeting in space that signalled the beginning of the end of the Cold War. When their spacecraft docked with each other, the respective commanders shook hands through the hatch and signalled a new start for the two nations. From this moment on, the Speedmaster Moonwatch was adopted by most of the world’s major space agencies.

2020 – MASTER CHRONOMETER CERTIFICATION

After four years of development, the Moonwatch achieves Master Chronometer certification. Released in 2019, the Calibre 3861 comes with enhanced power reserve, chronometric performance and magnetic resistance. The watch also features OMEGA’s revolutionary Co-Axial escapement as well as the silicon Si14 balance spring, which allowed the calibre to pass the eight rigorous Master Chronometer tests.

Conversations with NASA Heroes

Omega’s new Constellation Aventurine dial recalls a dreamy star-filled sky

A classic among its portfolio, Omega’s latest 29mm Constellation model is a dreamy fantasy that incorporates the appeal of sparkling blue glass, with impressive Aventurine dials that is inspired by a star-studded sky.

On top of that, the bold shade contrasts splendidly with the luxurious case and bracelet that comes with a choice of stainless steel, 18K Sedna™ gold, yellow gold, or blends of steel and gold.

Each timepiece features a round date window at 6 o’clock and 11 diamond hour markers that are fixed in place with holders made from yellow, white, or 18K Sedna™ gold, depending on the model, as well as the bezels. The watch is also engraved with Roman numerals and diamond set.

As always, Omega has stayed genuine to the Constellation’s design with its distinguishing claws and mono-rang bracelet and utilises the exceptional Master Chronometer calibres (8700/8701) to keep a steady beat behind the blue dials.

Swipe the gallery to take a look at the Omega’s “Beautiful In Blue” Constellation collection :

Visit omegawatches.com to find out more.

This article was originally published on www.lofficielmalaysia.com.

On Newsstands: WOW Malaysia Spring 2020

Spring 2020 is here and once more, we have another highly anticipated issue of World of Watches Malaysia. Want to find out what we have in store for our valuable readers? Why not pick up a copy of the magazine or, even better, subscribe to receive the magazines at your convenience, especially during the Movement Control Order period? Here is a sneak peek of what’s inside.

Daniel Craig aka James Bond 007 is back with his new Omega Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition. Read how the actor was consulted on the creation of the watch made for the most famous of field secret agents even as the launch of the new Bond movie is postponed towards the end of the year. The new watch, with its military specifications and vintage-inspired aesthetics, will remain high on the desirability list, especially with the greater anticipation for the 25th Bond movie which is coincidentally Craig’s last outing as James Bond.

2020 is a leap year and, once again, the date change at the end of February moves into focus with the extra day at the end of the shortest month of the year. In this issue, we discover how fine German watchmaking brand, A. Lange & Söhne, implements the major complication of the Perpetual Calendar in their highly complicate timepieces. In fact, since 2001, the highly respected brand has released no less than eight timepieces that feature this complication and, all but one of them implements the function in the most traditional of ways.

On a more heartwarming note, we feature Patek Philippe’s long-standing relationship with Cortina Watch as they come together to revel over sixty years of warm friendship and business connections. Find out how the two entities cooperated and stayed strong with each other through thick and thin in, our special write-up on Patek Philippe and Cortina Watch.

Of course, even in the absence of Baselworld and Watches & Wonders 2020, we persevere and continue to present the latest horological launches for the year. Rado shares the limelight with the new update on its popular vintage-styled Captain Cook that comes enhanced with 300m water resistance and in a more prominent and larger case of 42mm. Corum presents something lavish for the ladies – the Corum Golden Bridge Round 39, a watch that successfully combines traditional watchmaking values with the fine skills of haute joaillerie. Not to be left behind, Seiko honours Novak Djokovic’s achievements with a new Seiko Astron GPS Solar dedicated to the champion tennis player as its premium brand, Grand Seiko, celebrates 60 years of excellence with a range of 60th anniversary Grand Seiko limited edition watches.

Rest assured, these are just some of the many other fabulous watches that we delve into for this issue. During times of social distancing, many physical watch launches were postponed or cancelled but, definitely, we will not be lacking in any watch related information so stay with us always!

Last but not least, in our issue, we also invite you to take a journey on the L’Odyssée de Cartier even in the times when there are many travel restrictions. Discover how the legendary Maison took inspiration from the depth and the diversity of mankind’s culture and incorporated it into rare creations. Do not forget to follow the adventures on Cartier’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/Cartier

As we all stay strong and healthy in these trying times, please stay tuned into the happenings of the Malaysian watch market and do look out for the Spring 2020 issue of World of Watches at your local newsstands as well as follow us on our Instagram account @WatchWOWMy.

5 starter watches to kick off a brand new year in 2020

Sporty New You

Weight loss is one of the most common resolutions, but it also ironically has the lowest success rates – the resolution might be unrealistic or not specific enough, combined with the lack of the drive to succeed.

A better resolution would be to take up a new sport that is truly enjoyable, and dropping some pounds will come naturally. For extra motivation, pick up a sports watch as an accompaniment. The Omega Seamaster Diver 300m ticks several boxes for a modern sports watch.

Despite its hulking presence on the wrist with a 43.5mm case diameter, the black ceramic and titanium case keeps it lightweight and provide it with unrivalled hardiness. The watch is further protected with a scratchproof sapphire crystal and Omega’s robust shock- and magnetic-resistant automatic Co-Axial Calibre 8806.

Paired with a rubber strap and with water resistance of 300m, the Seamaster Diver can be taken for leisurely swims or brought into the shower after a good workout.

Get organised

Mess and chaos rank high on the list of productivity killers, so starting the year on a tidy note is a critical aspect to improve efficiency. Aim to organise and clear chaotic zones that are within control, such as a messy office desk, overflowing e-mail inbox or even cluttered mobile phone application pages.

While on the topic of clean slates, picking up a watch with a clean and organised dial can serve as a reminder to stay tidy every time one checks the time. The Montblanc Star Legacy Full Calendar is an elegant expression of an organised dial paired with classic watchmaking codes.

The execution of the watch dial is masterful as the key elements of the full calendar are arranged harmoniously – demarcated by negative spaces. The calendar’s layout allows one to read all the necessary information at a glance, with the day and month indicated in the apertures while the date is highlighted by the red crescent hand.

The choice of Roman numerals is a classic touch suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Family Ties

As the debate and search for work-life balance ramble on, it is important not to neglect your loved ones. The key to making the most out of our precious remaining free time is to spend quality time – undivided attention – with our family.

Patek Philippe exemplifies the importance of family ties with its iconic slogan launched in 1996. Recognised as the very essence of the Swiss watchmaker with its pure lines, the curves of the svelte 39mm watch case of the Calatrava Ref. 5227G- 010 is executed in white gold – an understated choice.

Powered by the automatic Calibre 324 S C, the hand-engraved movement can be viewed through an officer case back hidden by invisible hinges that Patek Philippe so cleverly devised. The highly elegant watch is further highlighted with a rich black lacquered dial adorned with white gold hour markers.

Be prepared to bequeath the Calatrava to your offspring because it was made for generations after all.

Better Planning

As clichéd as the age-old adage “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail” goes, planning is the key to meeting one’s objectives with ease and promptness – a well-thought-out plan armed with contingencies minimise the risk of failures.

A key element to a successful plan is exacting timeliness, and the Zenith Chronomaster El Primero Open is the right watch for it. The legendary El Primero movement is the world’s first fully-integrated high-frequency, self-winding chronograph calibre developed by Zenith in 1969.

The Chronomaster Open is able to attain high levels of precision and timekeeping accuracy thanks to the high operating frequency of the calibre, operating at 36,000vph or 5Hz. It is also COSC-certified to guarantee an accuracy within -4 to +6 seconds of variation per day.

The partially openworked watch dial is executed in Zenith’s iconic style, which allows viewers to marvel at the beating heart of the El Primero movement.

Inner Beauty

Living life to the fullest does not necessarily mean endlessly chasing big goals, it is also about enjoying the little things in life that contribute to a happier and fuller life.

The TAG Heuer Monaco 50th Anniversary celebrates the watchmaker’s storied history and achievements in motor racing while displaying the intricate beauties of watchmaking. The monochromatic 39mm charcoal coloured dial is punctuated with red chronograph seconds and counter hands.

Great attention to details such as the discreet sunray brushing on the dial and the faceted, mirror-polished applied black-gold indexes ensure the minute elements will not go unnoticed.

The unconventional execution and positioning of the crown and pushers stay true to the OG pieces that have distinguished the Monaco over the past 50 years, while being powered by the world’s first automatic-winding chronograph movement – the hallowed TAG Heuer Automatic Calibre 11.

This story first appeared in the December/January ’20 issue of Men’s Folio Malaysia.

Omega unveils the new Bond watch with Daniel Craig

In honour of the soon-to-be-released 007 movie ‘No Time to Die’ in April 2020, Omega reimagines its iconic Seamaster Diver 300M as the new Bond Watch.

And Daniel Craig, the man who plays the iconic special agent 007 and also Omega’s brand ambassador has worked closely with the luxury watchmaker to bring the new Bond watch to life and ensure the timepiece is made to be a quintessential wrist-wear for James Bond himself.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 04: Daniel Craig speaks during the Omega Bond Watch Unveiling on December 04, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images for Omega)

“When working with OMEGA, we decided that a lightweight watch would be key for a military man like 007. I also suggested some vintage touches and colour to give the watch a unique edge. The final piece looks incredible.”

-Daniel Craig on the new Omega Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition.

Appearing on the silver screen will be a Seamaster Diver 300M reimagined with Grade 2 Titanium case and mesh bracelet, while “tropical” brown aluminium is employed for the dial and bezel ring. The exquisite elements not only meet the military needs of a special agent but also makes the timepiece a statement with a chic, classic accent for James Bond.

The timepiece highlights a NAIAD LOCK caseback engraved with a series of numbers that follow the format for genuine military-issued watches. Inside, houses the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8806 – the industry’s highest standards of precision, chronometric performance and magnetic resistance.

Swipe the gallery to take a closer look at Omega Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition:

This article was originally published on www.lofficielmalaysia.com.

New Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition

On the night of July 20, 1969, our world changed forever: two men, representing the sum of humanity, traversed the surface of the moon. 50 years since mankind took its first daring steps onto the moon, Omega is celebrating with a Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition.

“I believe this nation should commit itself, before this decade is out, to landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth.” – President John F. Kennedy committing NASA resources to landing a man on the moon

For the golden anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, Omega is celebrating the occasion with a brand new Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition that binds the astronauts and the legacy of human advancement in one historic mission.

: Compare and constrast: The new Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th anniversary Limited Edition

: Compare and Contrast: The original Speedmaster Apollo 11 commemorative edition BA145.22

New Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition

When President. Eisenhower left office in 1961, the future of NASA’s space program was uncertain to say the least. There were no earmarked funds in the budget proposal for NASA’s Project Apollo, and President-elect Kennedy’s closest advisors were skeptical that there was any value launching humans into space. That said, the geopolitical reality and intense ideological rivalries between the United States and the Soviet Republic would convince the Executive Branch of the political value (even if they didn’t understand the economic value) of the monumental achievement of sending a man to the moon at the time and Swiss watchmaker Omega was lockstep with them (even if they didn’t realise it at the time).

“We choose to go to the moon! We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things—not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” – President Kennedy on the immense challenges that await

Given the immense funding thrown at getting a man to the moon before the end of the decade, it is interesting to note that rather than commission a watch designed for space travel, NASA aeronautics engineer James H. Ragan decided to seek COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) timepieces – that is models which civilians could purchase and the future ‘Moonwatch’ Omega Speedmaster was among the many models chosen. Little did he know, many of the Flight Crew were already using Omega Speedmasters on their daily missions.

Omega Speedmaster ‘Moonwatch’ – Made of the Right Stuff

Thanks to its robust, reliable and easy-to-read design, the Speedmaster developed a reputation as the “pilots’ choice” and was adopted by those in the U.S Air Force. Many of those aces became Mercury astronauts in NASA’s first manned space programme and, in 1963, one of those astronauts, Walter Schirra, took his own Speedmaster CK2998 on the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission. Orbiting the Earth six times, his privately-owned model became the first Omega Speedmaster to be worn in space.

“The watch was a backup. If the astronauts lost the capability of talking to the ground, or the capability of their digital timers on the lunar surface, then the only thing they had to rely on was the Omega watch they had on their wrist. It needed to be there for them if they had a problem.” – NASA aeronautics engineer, James H. Ragan

While the Apollo 11 landing is the most culturally significant as a milestone, one aborted moon landing (the infamous Apollo 13) and five other moon landings were the most scientifically relevant because the astronauts stayed on the surface longer and ventured farther from their landing crafts, especially once they had lunar rovers on missions Apollos 15–17, each time, accompanied with their Omega ‘Moonwatch’ Speedmasters. The Apollo 13 mission was considered “NASA’s most successful failure” but for Omega, it was indeed testament to NASA engineer Ragan’s faith in Omega has a backup. When computers completely shut down in the Apollo 13 module, Commander Lovell only had his Omega Speedmaster to do precision timing of the positioning thrusters – Mis-timed firing of the rockets would have condemned the astronauts to certain death as they bounced off Earth’s atmosphere into the infinite void of space. That said, the milestone success of Apollo 11 is the one most fervently celebrated around the world. On the 25th of November 1969, a special “Astronaut Appreciation Dinner” was held in Houston, Texas, in tribute to the moon landing heroes.

The original solid gold Speedmaster BA145.022 in Appreciation of Astronauts

Crafted from 18K yellow gold and included a rare burgundy bezel, the solid gold Speedmaster housed the calibre 861 and was the Bien Manufacture’s very first commemorative numbered edition, with only 1,014 models being produced from 1969 to 1973. Created in appreciation of the remarkable accomplishments of NASA astronauts, the 18K yellow gold Omega Speedmaster and newly christened ‘Moonwatch’ was created for US President, Richard Nixon, with number two allocated to the US Vice President Spiro Agnew.

Model numbers 3 – 28 were given to the NASA astronauts, including 19 of those who were present at the gala dinner in Houston. These Limited Edition Omega Speedmasters bore a special inscription on the caseback that read, “to mark man’s conquest of space with time, through time, on time.” making these Moonwatches distinct from the models eventually offered to the general public. Civilian models bore three different inscriptions reading “OMEGA SPEEDMASTER”, “APOLLO XI 1969” and “Ω THE FIRST WATCH WORN ON THE MOON”.

Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition is a New Gold Alloy “Moonshine” remake of that legendary Moonwatch

Following the famous design of the Speedmaster BA145.022, this new Moonwatch marking the golden anniversary of the first moon landing has been crafted from an exclusive new 18K gold alloy called Moonshine. The case, bracelet, dial, hour-markers and hour-minute hands of the new Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition have been created in 18K Moonshine™ gold – a unique new alloy whose colour is inspired by the shining moonlight in a dark blue sky. Omega Moonshine gold is slightly paler (else virtually indistinguishable) than traditional 18K yellow gold yet offering superior resistance to tarnishing and fading over time.

Remaining true to the historical 1969 gold Speedmaster BA145.022, the Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition is outfitted with a burgundy bezel ring in ceramic [ZrO2], according to a special patent pending process, with its tachymeter scale in Ceragold™ rather than anodised aluminium. However, while it differs materially from the original bezel, the aesthetic elements follow the first generation of the Speedmaster tachymeter scale, graduated to 500 units per hour, and features a marker dot above 90 or “Dot Over 90” (DON).

The Limited Edition Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary is powered by a brand new manual-winding Master Chronometer calibre 3861 with Co-Axial escapement, silicon Si14 balance spring, Moonshine™ gold-plated main plate and bridges and burgundy markings, produced in a limited edition series run of 1,014 pieces and accompanied with one of the industry’s longest warranty periods – five-years.

The biggest departure from full replication of the original gold commemorative Speedmaster resides in the lack of a caseback. Instead, a sapphire caseback shows off the gorgeously finished Master Chronometer calibre 3861 with an outer caseback ring featuring machine engraved markings: “1969-2019” and the Limited Edition number highlighted in burgundy, as well as uncoloured “Master Chronometer”.

The 18k Moonshine gold inner ring also holds a motifs of vital importance – a matte-finish blue ocean that surrounds a partial world map of the American continents (in polished finish), with a glimpse over the rocket’s lift-off site Cape Canaveral and a matte-finish black background which accentuates polished markings including, “APOLLO 11 – 50th ANNIVERSARY” and “THE FIRST WATCH WORN ON THE MOON”; both produced through separate laser ablation processes, as well as two PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) colour treatments in blue and black.

Finally, a domed lunar meteorite inlay representing the Moon has been delicately set into the cavity of the ring in true Earth to Moon proportions of 3.67 : 1.

What to expect at Baselworld 2019?

The Swatch Group CEO Nick Hayek has dropped a bombshell last month with an exclusive interview with Switzerland’s Neue Zürcher Zeitung and the news has quickly made to the headlines of every watch publications.

According to a statement issued by The Swatch Group, “Today everything has become more transparent, fast-moving, and instantaneous. Accordingly, a different rhythm and a different approach is needed. … In this new context, annual watch fairs, as they exist today, no longer make much sense. This does not mean that they should disappear. But it is necessary that they reinvent themselves, responding appropriately to the current situation and demonstrating more dynamism and creativity”.

In response to the statement, René Kamm, the former CEO of MCH Group – who has resigned after the departure of The Swatch Group from Baselworld – said, “We extraordinarily regret Swatch Group’s decision. The cancellation is all the more surprising for us because this news reaches us at a point in time when new management has arrived with a new team, new esprit and many new ideas’.

In the same month – when the news of The Swatch Group’s departure broke –, Baselworld has welcomed a new Managing Director, Michel Loris-Melikoff and he revealed that it will be an entirely brand new experience for Baselworld 2019 with the transformation of the annual event from a media andtrading platform to an attractive marketing, communications and events platform.

René Kamm has stepped down as CEO of MCH Group on 3 August.

The following are the low-down on what he shared about the plans for Baselworld 2019:

More exclusive contents
Baselworld will present Les Ateliers in Hall 1.0 South which provides a better opportunity for the independent watchmakers to showcase their creations. What’s more, the Hall 1.1 will be the venue for “The Loop”, a space for the presentation of watchmaking art.

A hub for jewellery makers
The “Show Plaza” in Hall 1.2 will feature a spectacular 240° catwalk with numerous LED screens to present the latest jewellery collections, which will also be used for wholly revised press day and a Retailer Summit.

The privilege of dining and accommodation
Baselworld will be offering a diverse selection of catering options, be it take away or dine-in at an exclusive three-star restaurant. Aside from dining, Baselworld plans to sign “Charta” with partner hotels to ensure a reasonable price for accommodation during Baselworld.

Information at fingertips
Baselworld will deliver all relevant information directly to the user’s phones via messaging services of chatbot and WeChat (for Asian audiences).

The Swatch Group was the largest exhibitor of Baselworld – with 18 brands under its helm such as Omega, Longines, Tissot and others – which funded the prestigious watch event with more than $US 50 million annually. Although Baselworld has survived from the departure of big brands like Cartier and Piaget previously, losing The Swatch Group as its main backer will definitely have an impact on Baselworld.

However, news about potent exhibitor leaving Baselworld did not come as a complete surprise as it has been happening throughout the decades. For example, the exit of Movado Group and Breitling last year; Vendôme Group in 1990; Hermes and others. The number of exhibitors has also dropped drastically from over 1300 to around 650 in 2018, which was only half the exhibitors in 2017.

The Swatch Group, which carries Omega has quit Baselworld.

Despite that, there are still 650 brands signed to exhibit in Baselworld 2019.

5 luxuy watches to reward your dad this Father’s Day

If diamonds are women’s best friend, then watches are the male equivalent of it.

So, for this coming Father’s Day, we have compiled a list of watches that we recommend as the ideal gift for fathers that are luxury watch lovers and haute horology enthusiasts.

Tudor Black Bay GMT with Manufacture calibre MT5652

As one of the lineup of Baselworld 2018, the Black Bay divers’ watch is back with a new enhanced look that comes with GMT function.

The new Tudor Black Bay GMT is decorated with two colours – burgundy and blue – for its bezel to give it an alluring appearance.

Its heart is powered by a self-winding Manufacture calibre MT5652 movement and encloses in a polished and satin finished 41mm steel case.

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph

Inspired by Earth’s nightlight, Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph 44.25mm is a black ceramic watch accentuated by a “vintage” colour of earth tone.

The watch is paired with a brown leather strap to express the vintage design code and the 44.25mm case houses a matte dial with its indexes and hands illuminated by “vintage” Super-LumiNova (earth tone Super-LumiNova), whilst it is powered by the Omega Co-Axial calibre 9300 movement.

Patek Philippe 5531R with calibre R 27 HU

Debuted at the “The Art of Watches Grand Exhibition New York 2017”, the Patek Philippe 5531R watch combines two complications, the minute repeater and the world time display that is able to show multiple time zones on the dial.

To match this trailblazing masterpiece, Patek Philippe also created a new calibre R 27 HU movement with a totally recessed mini rotor in 22k gold for the watch.

Breitling Superocean Heritage II B01 Chronograph 44

If your dad is smitten with masculine watches, this Breitling watch will satisfy his desire.

Bedecked in a navy blue body with steel mesh bracelet, the watch boasts of the Breitling Manufacture Calibre 01 as its heart.

It also comes in few variants namely black dial with silver counters, blue dial with silver counters or silver dial with black bezel and counters.

Tiffany & Co. CT60 3-hand 40mm

If your dad is the minimalist man who fancies simple designs, this Tiffany & Co. CT60 3-hand 40mm watch is to his liking.

Expressing simple design language, the timepiece is adorned with white Soleil dial and gold poudré numerals with a self-winding movement with 42-hour power reserve.