Omega Basel 2015

Omega have stuck to using a hand wound movement in this watch, which is in keeping with the original. The case back is a sterling silver medal, like the one given to Omega by NASA, which is called the silver Snoopy award. It is also enamelled with hand applied silver dust to make it look like Snoopy is floating through space.

The character was co-opted by NASA as their safety mascot for the Apollo program. The Silver Snoopy award was given out to those who contributed towards the safety and success of the Apollo missions. In 1970, Omega was awarded the Silver Snoopy for their role in the Apollo program and this new Omega Speedmaster Apollo 13 Silver Snoopy Award Limited Edition watch commemorates their role and the eventual safe return of the Apollo crew on April 17th, 1970.

For me though the stand out feature is the dial. In white it is an exact negative of the original, between zero and 14 you have these square boxes, this is a nod to two things, one is the controlled burn needed to navigate back into the earths atmosphere, by the astronauts. Also to the original peanut comic strips in the news papers. For that extra touch of character, you have Snoopy painted on the sub dial at nine o'clock, laying almost asleep.

Last but by no means least, comes the wording on the dial. At the centre it reads 'failure is not an option' which became the unofficial motto for the mission. And in the top quarter it reads 'what could you do in 14 seconds?' - It was those 14 seconds that saved the lives of three men aboard.

A watch truly inspired by the past. Taking many of its elements from the 1950 & 1960's constellations but using very modern manufacturing processes. The movement in this is the first of a kind Master Chronometer. Being put through far more tests than a standard movement.

This is very much a first of its kind piece, but knowing Omega I think this will become standard across the range within the next two years.

It is a great alternative for gents who want a more classically styled watch, but with the reliability of modern manufacture

Omega have presented not one, but four new variations of the Darkside of the Moon watch this year at Basel.

The Black Black, is exactely that! A very cool addition to the Dark Side Collection, there is no colour at all to this piece, with a matt finished ceramic case, ceramic dial with laser techonology, and Black SuperLuminova on the indexes. Strong and Mysterious.