Introduction:

When I first laid eyes on the 1957 60th Anniversary Edition (Ref. 311.10.39.30.01.001), it was love at first sight. This watch isn't just a timepiece; it's a slice of history, a testament to Omega's dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.

First Impressions

When I unboxed my Omega Speedmaster 1957 60th Anniversary, the first thing that struck me was its vintage charm. Omega has done a stellar job in capturing the essence of the original 1957 model. The 39mm stainless steel case is perfectly sized, paying homage to the classic era without feeling outdated.

Comes with two straps, leather and nato

The black dial, adorned with the iconic "Broad Arrow" hands, immediately caught my attention. The hands and hour markers are coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent readability in low light conditions. The hesalite crystal adds to the vintage feel, although it's more prone to scratches than sapphire.

Beautiful domed hesalite crystal

The original Broad Arrow hands

The Movement

Inside this beauty beats the Omega Caliber 1861, a manual-winding chronograph movement. As someone who appreciates the art of watchmaking, winding the watch every other day is a pleasure rather than a chore. The movement is robust and reliable, with a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.

Wearing Experience

The stainless steel bracelet is both comfortable and stylish, featuring brushed and polished links that catch the light beautifully. The clasp is secure and easy to use, adding to the overall premium feel of the watch. On the wrist, the Speedmaster 1957 60th Anniversary feels substantial yet comfortable, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Timeless Design: The watch's design is a faithful tribute to the original 1957 model, offering a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern reliability.
• Quality Construction: The stainless steel case and bracelet are impeccably crafted, providing durability and a premium feel.
• Reliable Movement: The Caliber 1861 movement is a workhorse, known for its accuracy and reliability.
• Readable Dial: The Super-LumiNova coating ensures excellent readability in various lighting conditions.
• Collector's Value: As a limited edition piece, this watch holds significant value for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Cons

• Hesalite Crystal: While it adds to the vintage aesthetic, the hesalite crystal is more prone to scratches compared to sapphire.
• Manual Winding: Although I enjoy it, some might find the need to manually wind the watch inconvenient.
• Limited Availability: Being a limited edition, it can be challenging to find one at a reasonable price.

Conclusion

Owning the Omega Speedmaster 1957 60th Anniversary has been a rewarding experience. This watch is not just about telling time; it's about celebrating a legacy. It’s a conversation starter, a piece of history, and a testament to Omega's enduring quality and design.

If you're a watch enthusiast or a collector, this timepiece is a worthy addition to your collection. Its timeless design, coupled with the reliability of the Caliber 1861 movement, makes it a true gem. While it has its minor drawbacks, the overall experience of owning this watch far outweighs them.

So, if you ever get the chance to own this iconic piece, don't hesitate. It's more than just a watch; it's a journey through time.

FAQs

1. How does the Omega Speedmaster 1957 60th Anniversary compare to the original 1957 model?
The 60th Anniversary edition is a faithful tribute to the original, with modern updates that enhance its reliability and durability while retaining the vintage charm.

2. Is the hesalite crystal a major downside?
Not necessarily. While it's more prone to scratches than sapphire, many enthusiasts appreciate the vintage look it provides. Plus, minor scratches can be easily polished out.

3. How often do you need to wind the watch?
The Caliber 1861 movement has a power reserve of about 48 hours, so I typically wind it every other day.

4. What makes this watch a good investment?
As a limited edition piece with historical significance and Omega's renowned quality, it holds substantial value for collectors.

5. Can you wear the Speedmaster 1957 60th Anniversary daily?
Absolutely! It's versatile enough for daily wear, though you might want to be cautious with the hesalite crystal.

Pilot and Racer side by side