Omega Speedmaster Rattrapante 3540.50 Review

nilomis · 2015-04-12T06:09:54Z

Explore the Omega Speedmaster Rattrapante 3540.50, a rare split-seconds chronograph. See detailed photos and learn about its unique carbon fiber dial and Omega 3600 movement.

nilomis

WPS member · Omega forum

10 replies3108 views9 photos

Nilomis shares his journey of reacquiring the Omega Speedmaster Rattrapante 3540.50, a watch he previously owned and regretted selling. His post highlights the unique characteristics of this less common Speedmaster variant, offering a personal perspective on its design, movement, and market reception, complemented by a series of detailed photographs.

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Team,

This is my second Speedmaster Rattrapante.

I had one exactly 3 years back and I let it go (it was over polished and not a full set).

Time passes and I got a perfect one, thanks for a dear friend.

The Omega Speedmaster Rattrapante 3540.50 was introduced in 1999 and it was not very successful.

Sources says that less than 5000 pieces were made in a short time frame (2001/2002 the production ended).

I know few versions of this watch:

This one, with a "carbon fibre" dial, a blue dialed one (Italian market) and a silver dialed.

The movement that powers this watch is the Omega 3600 (a special version of the ETA 7750) that carries the rattrapante/split seconds complication.

The case is very similar to the old Speedmaster X-33. Massive, but surprising comfortable on my wrist.

Let's see the pictures:

First, my old and late one (picture taken in 2012):

Now, my current one. Complete, perfect.

Full B&W watch, deserves a B&W picture:

Nice looks, IMHO:

Trying to capture the "carbon fiber" dial:

Side picture, showing the massive but comfortable case, with the Rattrapante pusher at 10AM:

Another face picture:

A static B&W picture:

In full fall colors:

Thanks for seeing.

A great Sunday to all,

Nilo
This message has been edited by nilomis on 2015-04-12 06:10:53

Key Points from the Discussion

The Omega 3600 movement, based on the ETA 7750, used in the Speedmaster Rattrapante, had a reputation for inconsistency, with some examples working perfectly while others required adjustments.
The 3540.50 is a large watch, around 44mm, and its wearability is comparable to a Panerai; replacement straps were once available from Omega but are now harder to source.
Another collector shared their recent acquisition of a different Omega Rattrapante, the De Ville Co-Axial Chronograph Chronometer, highlighting the diversity of Omega's split-seconds offerings.
The blue dial version of the Speedmaster Rattrapante 3540.50 may not have been exclusive to the Italian market, as it was observed in local ADs globally during its production run.
The Speedmaster Rattrapante 3540.50, with its distinctive presence, is considered a provocative and visually striking piece within a collection.
The original author considers his 1999-produced Speedmaster Rattrapante to be almost vintage, given its age of sixteen years at the time of the post.
A prospective buyer inquired about the better purchase between a 1999 and a 2004 model of the Speedmaster Rattrapante, both in excellent condition.

The Discussion

MichaelC

Apr 12, 2015

Great photos Nilo!

I love the strong proportions on this one. Back where it belongs, congrats!

Dr No

Apr 12, 2015

One of the hidden treasures from Omega's catalog . . .

. . . that doesn't register often enough amongst collectors. I've seen two of these in the metal, both blue dials, and both in dealer inventory. This Speedy evinces a palpable sense of presence, and yes, the thought of owning one has crossed my mind. Terrific photos as usual, Nilo; this has to be one of the more provocative pieces in your collection. Art

nilomis

Apr 13, 2015

For sure ...

And since it was made in 1999 it's almost a vintage (sixteen years!!!). Thanks, Nilo

Ruckdee

Apr 13, 2015

That is my all time favorite Rattrapante from Omega.

Congratulations on reacquiring it. I like your version the best. Regarding the blue dial, I'm not sure if it is special for Italy market. I remember seeing it at my local AD so I assumed all dial versions were distributed globally, during those short years the model lived. Enjoy your watch and don't forget to share a group pic of your modern Omegas when you can. It will be very interesting. Ruckdee

nilomis

Apr 13, 2015

Consider this done ...

As soon I return home by the end of this week. Cheers, Nilo

Ruckdee

Apr 13, 2015

That's awesome! Looking forward and wish you fun time taking pics. [nt]

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Omega Speedmaster Rattrapante 3540.50 Review

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