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One of the biggest names in luxury watches is Omega. The Swiss brand has been making world-class timepieces well over a century ago, and it’s one of the most beloved luxury watch brands if you ask any watch nerd. Not only do Omega watches ooze class and quality, but they’ve even been the choice of James Bond for over two decades. You honestly can’t go wrong with shopping for an Omega watch. That’s precisely why I’m wearing one right now.
With that said, buying a mechanical Swiss luxury watch is a serious investment. The luxury market as a whole is going through a rough patch at the moment as well. Swiss luxury watches typically cost multiple thousands of dollars, even on the secondary market. That’s why me and my ilk were so thrilled when Omega collaborated with Swatch to release a series of quartz-powered Speedmaster-themed watches. Now you can have that iconic Speedmaster look on your wrist without taking out a second mortgage on your home. It’s the perfect way to get a little luxury without breaking the bank.
What is a MoonSwatch?
If you’re not familiar with the vaunted Omega Speedmaster, then allow me to illuminate you. First released in 1957 as an auto racing chronograph, Omega submitted a Speedmaster model to NASA in the 1960s, with the hopes of being the space agency’s preferred timepiece of its astronauts. A chronograph watch is important for space travel because it’s used to time burns, stirring of oxygen tanks, and other technical tasks on-board. Ultimately, the Omega Speedmaster beat out brands like Rolex and Bulova to be the very first watch on the moon. That was in 1969, and the watch’s legend has only grown since then.
Omega sells tens of different Speedmaster models with different colors, features, and aesthetics. I myself own a vintage 1974 Speedmaster with a square 1970’s-style “TV dial.” It’s a rare model and I couldn’t love it more than I already do. That said, there are many times when I don’t feel like taking an expensive and delicate vintage chronograph out of my watch box because it’s just not the right time. That’s when I pull out my MoonSwatch. The MoonSwatch is manufactured by Swatch using the aesthetics and basic features of an Omega Speedmaster. The collab caused quite a stir when first released, and they immediately began selling for thousands on the secondary market.
Thankfully, the retail price remains reasonable, and they’re easy to buy these days. In fact, Swatch continues to release new models and special editions every few months. Two of the most popular models leverage Omega’s history with the Snoopy character, and they’re my personal favorites. That’s why some weeks I wear mine more than I even wear the aforementioned vintage Speedmaster.
Omega X Swatch Mission to the Moonphase New Moon
This watch, inspired in part by the Omega Silver Snoopy commemorative Speedmaster, has an all black case made from Swatch’s proprietary bioceramic. It’s lightweight and relatively durable, making this and every MoonSwatch incredibly comfortable to wear. In addition to the standard chronograph function, there is a small moonphase feature that includes a Snoopy character. As the moon comes out, so does Snoopy, adding a fun little touch to an otherwise serious-looking watch.
I get constant compliments on the watch when I wear it out. Some of those come from people who think it’s an authentic mechanical Speedmaster and others who know exactly what it is and want to show their appreciation. With a retail price of just $320, this is your best entry into the world of luxury watch collecting, and the watch world will respect you for it.
Omega X Swatch Mission to the Moonphase White
There is another version of this same watch in all white. I actually have the white one on my buy list as well, though I need to wait a little longer, lest my wife decides to commandeer my collection and sell it for scraps. As with the black model, this one is made from lightweight bioceramic and includes a velcro-attached NATO-style strap. This is exactly the type of strap used by the astronauts during the Speedmaster’s first journeys into space. As it is with the New Moon model, Snoopy peeks out from behind a panel as the moonphase progresses.
While these are two of my favorite MoonSwatch models, there are plenty more to shop. They’re available in a variety of colors and finishes, and Swatch has done an amazing job of infusing its fun and modern design elements into a traditional powerhouse watch model. I can’t recommend these watches enough for seasoned watch collectors, and those who are looking to get started as well.
More Swatch models
If Snoopy isn’t your thing, there are many other Swatch looks that may suit you, whether that’s within the MoonSwatch family or not. I recommend browsing through each one and picture it on your wrist in different scenarios. I tend to opt for more neutral colors, but you may want a little more personality in your watchbox.
Omega X Swatch Mission to the Moon
Omega X Swatch Mission to the Moonphase White
Omega X Swatch Mission to the Moon 1969
Swatch Skin Irony Casual Watch
Swatch Biosourced Casual Watch
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