Omega Launch the Speedmaster "CK2998" at BaselWorld 2016

New for Baselworld 2016, was the release of the Omega Speedmaster "CK2998" Limited Edition watch, a refreshed version of one of the original Omega Speedmaster editions, the CK2998.

This new version opts for the familiar manual winding calibre 1861 movement but reimagines the dial with a splash of blue and some rhodium. It's a simple equation, but the choice of blue and the decision to keep that classic movement in there looks a winning combination in a world full of Omega Speedmaster iterations.

There are certainly going to be purists out there who will balk at the idea of the classic Moonwatch being redone in different colours, but for me, the execution here just makes this a very cool piece. Plus we have the small touches, so important for me, like the "lollipop" chronograph seconds hand. This watch perfectly fills that role of a casual everyday wear that has a contemporary edge but a lot of history packed inside.

The classic 39.7mm-wide case features a polished blue ceramic bezel and a white SuperLuma Nova  tachymeter scale. On the dial itself are applied rhodium-plated indices, that familiar "lollipop" chronograph seconds hand, as well as the hour and minute hands, all of which,again, feature SuperLuma-Nova.

On the back of the case, you'll see the classic Speedmaster seahorse to pull together the look. No  extraneous text on either the front or the back - always a good move.

Aesthetic changes aside, what makes this an Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is the ticking mechanical heart - the Calibre 1861 movement. The same movement was used in the original Moonwatch, this manual calibre operates at 21,600 vph (3Hz) and provides a power reserve of 48 hours.

For a lot of Speedmaster fanatics, the modernity of the case updates combined with the connection to the  original movement will be a tempting lure. The new watch will have a limited run of 2,998 pieces, the  number of which can be seen on the case back.

I must admit, I really want to try this piece on and see it in person because I think that's when the use of the blue will really translate, as photos can only do so much justice.

If you would like to find out more about this or any of the new releases from Basel, or to place a pre-order, our watch teams would love to hear from you. Contact your nearest store to find out more. You can see our full current range of Omega watches here.