Omega Speedmaster 1861 Hesalite: Discontinued Collection

@lberti · 2021-04-28T13:17:19Z

Explore why collectors are still seeking the discontinued Omega Speedmaster Professional with Hesalite and Caliber 1861. @lberti shares his acquisition story.

In a timely acquisition, @lberti secured one of the final Omega Speedmaster Professional models equipped with the caliber 1861 movement and hesalite crystal, just as it was being discontinued. His post highlights the enduring appeal of this specific reference, particularly its perceived robustness and the comprehensive package offered, providing valuable insight into collector preferences at a pivotal moment for the iconic Speedmaster line.

During my visit at the Omega Store today and after seeing CANAPUS (see previous post), i did not walk out empty handed. I ask for the discontinued speedy with hesalite and knowing the botique and their amazing service, they had one in stock and offered to me. I preffer this one, as it looks a bit tougher (must be the look of the bracelet) and of course the overall offering (lower price, two nato bracelets, tool to change the bracelets, loupe, etc...) I was lucky enough to receive one of the last produced speedies with 1861 movement.

Key Points from the Discussion

The caliber 1861 movement had a remarkable production run of 53 years, originating in 1968, making @lberti's acquisition a significant piece of horological history.
Many collectors, like @Tavio_George, specifically chose the hesalite version of the Speedmaster, finding its proportions and overall feel more authentic compared to newer models.
Some owners of the previous generation Speedmaster, even the sapphire models, express no desire to upgrade to the newer iterations, underscoring the satisfaction with the existing references.
The discussion prompted other collectors to share images of their own Speedmasters, celebrating the enduring design and personal connection to the timepiece.

The Discussion

vitalsigns

Apr 28, 2021

Congrats! A genuine classic. And I agree, the prior version bracelet looks better to my eyes.

@lberti

Apr 28, 2021

Thank you. The new bracelet looks very elegant and sleek, but thats not the speedy look that has been to the moon and back

PalmSprings

Apr 28, 2021

They didn't use this bracelet either.

@lberti

Apr 28, 2021

You're right!

I wanted to say this iteration looks more rugged and thats what i like... Thanks comment

Dr No

Apr 28, 2021

The beginning of an era signals the end of one, too. I wonder if Omega . . .

. . . will keep the very last production 1861 for the museum. If not, they should. Thanks for sharing with us, Alberti, and congrats on acquiring one of the last of the breed. I think the first 861 came out in '68 . . . that makes fifty three years altogether. Art

@lberti

Apr 28, 2021

fifty years, thats insane and cool at the same time.... such a workhorse.... happy to have been able to acquire one....

Omega Speedmaster 1861 Hesalite: Discontinued Collection

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

Related Articles