In this video we discuss the Omega Speedmaster Reduced and how it differs from the classic Moonwatch. Click here to shop all Speedmaster watches: www.bobswatche...
Click here for our complete buying guide on the Omega Speedmaster Reduced: www.bobswatche...
First released in 1957, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is a true icon within the industry. In the years since its debut, the Speedmaster has expanded from a single watch into an entire collection of chronograph models, and it now represents one of the cornerstone offerings of Omega’s catalog.
The classic Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch has a 42mm case fitted with a domed hesalite crystal, and powered by a manually-wound integrated chronograph movement. To this day, Omega still produces a version of the Speedmaster that retains its NASA-certification and it is almost identical to the models that first went to the moon.
In 1988, Omega released the Speedmaster Reduced, which offered the same styling as the classic Moonwatch, but with a 39mm case for a smaller overall package. While the two cases are very similar in appearance, the caseback of the standard Moonwatch is of the screw-on variety, while the Speedmaster Reduced uses a snap-on caseback.
Like other watches that use modular chronograph movements, the winding crown on the Speedmaster Reduced is positioned lower on the side of the case relative to the chronograph pushers. On the Speedmaster Pro, the pushers and the winding crown all sit in a straight line, and this is due to the difference between modular and integrated chronograph movements.
The Speedmaster Reduced is powered by the Caliber 3220 - a self-winding, ETA-based movement fitted with a modular chronograph mechanism. Due to the use of a self-winding caliber, the Speedmaster Reduced is also sometimes called the Speedmaster Automatic.
Due to its smaller case size and different movement, the sub-dials on the Speedmaster Reduced are positioned closer to the edge of the dial compared to the Speedmaster Pro. The layout of the sub-dials is also different, with the running seconds located at the 9 o’clock on the classic Moonwatch, while it appears at the 3 o’clock on the Speedmaster Reduced.
The Speedmaster Reduced was always intended to be less expensive than the standard, full-size Speedy Pro. The original Speedmaster was the NASA-certified model designed for professional use, while the Speedmaster Reduced was created more for the general public, and its automatic movement made it significantly more convenient for everyday wear and use.
Over the years, Omega produced a number of different Speedmaster watches with smaller case sizes; however the “Speedmaster Reduced” name specifically applies to the models with black dials and bezels that do not have additional date displays or calendar complications.
The original Omega Speedmaster Reduced was the reference 3510.50.00; however it should be noted that this model originally went by another reference number before Omega changed their coding system in the late 1980s. This model features a Hesalite crystal and a matte black dial, just like the classic full-size Moonwatch - however; the dial also features small Arabic numeral minute markings located on the inside perimeter of each hour marker.
In 2006, Omega launched a new Speedmaster Reduced via reference 3539.50.00. This model swapped out the Hesalite crystal for sapphire, and introduced a new dial that more closely mirrored the full-size Speedy Pro, omitting the Arabic numeral markings from the previous version. Beyond the updated dial and crystal, the new Speedmaster Reduced was more-or-less identical to its predecessor. Despite the more attractive price point and convenient automatic movement, Omega discontinued the Speedmaster Reduced entirely by 2009.
Although there has not been a Speedmaster Reduced in production for over a decade, Omega still offers smaller options with the Speedmaster 38 and Speedmaster Racing (both with 38mm cases and automatic movements). However, neither line offers models that follow the design of the full-size Moonwatch. To this day, the Speedmaster Reduced remains the go-to option for collectors that want the iconic design of the Omega Moonwatch in a smaller overall package.
Omega Speedmaster Reduced prices have increased significantly in recent years; however both versions of the model are still more affordable than the classic full-size Speedmaster Professional on the pre-owned market. Regardless of whether you get the Speedmaster Reduced or its full-size counterpart, you will be receiving a watch with a truly iconic design and an incredible history.
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