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This or that?
During my recent stay in Geneva, I visited the Omega boutique to have a look at the new Reverse Panda Speedmaster, ref. 310.30.42.50.01.004 and compared it to the Hesalite variant, ref. 310.30.42.50.01.001.
The lighting conditions were terrible (very harsh electric light) and I struggled to take acceptable photos with my iPhone...
At first, I wasn't fully convinced by the Reverse Panda dial and expected to like the Hesalite variant (which I have already tried on on other occasions) more and even much more.
But it didn't turn out this way: on the wrist just after the Reverse Panda version, the Hesalite felt a bit plain and less attractive.
Although I don't particularly like the polished links of the bracelet that the Panda version shares with the other sapphire-back versions, and although I don't think a see-through case back is necessary for such a watch, I ended up liking it more than the Hesalite and finding it attractive.
I think that what makes this version not only different but also really attractive is its black varnished and lacquered double plate step dial with white varnished and lacquered subdials set within rhodium-plated frames.
So, even if I will probably never own a Speedmaster (not because I don't like it, but because, given my priorities, it wouldn't get enough wrist time), I finally think this new Reverse Panda version is a very appealing proposition.
To the point that I even wonder if I don't prefer it to the white (310.30.42.50.04.001) or black (310.30.42.50.01.002) dial versions, which also have recessed subdials instead of a double plate step dial.
NB: the two photos below have been taken in Paris on another occasion.
I have forgotten to take photos of the case backs, so here are some official pictures (see-through case back of the Reverse Panda version and solid case back of the Hesalite version).
And you: which one do you prefer?
Best, Emmanuel
This or that?
During my recent stay in Geneva , I visited the Omega boutique to have a look at the new Reverse Panda Speedmaster , ref. 310.30.42.50.01.004 and compared it to the Hesalite variant, ref. 310.30.42.50.01.001. The lighting conditions were terrible (very ha...
Oh... the Panda looks really good.
I am not into vintage or care about the historical correctness, so I'll go with the Panda, and sapphire crystal is even better.
I think it depends on what you already have
As your first speedy the classic model may be more attractive. In my experience plexi does better under natural light and may not be able to give its best indoors, especially in the type of environment you described. Finally, with regards to the caseback,...
I guess you're right and know better than me, as I have no Speedmaster.
But I could definitely see myself starting a Speedmaster journey with the Panda version. On which watch would you like to install your sapphire caseback? Best, Emmanuel
Since I don't have a speedy
I think the plexi makes more sense for me (my Sinn 103 also has a plexi which I like very much). I bought the caseback in anticipation of buying the plexi and replacing the caseback to be able to admire the movement.
I see, now I understand better!
I wish you the best for the acquisition of the plexi, then!
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But having succeeded at a public tender some 60 years ago as the only thing worth pushing about a proud brand like Omega I find very reductionist 🤷🏻♂️
in classic territory, even if to others it might feel dull, I would always pick the Hesalite (having one purchased for my son when he grows up) as it is classic combination of elements for good reasons
and retains a bit of a more relaxed (i don't dare to say tool) approach. Nothing wrong with all the others variations but can get lost into it personally!
Your way of seeing things makes a lot of sense.
But I had to be honest concerning my feelings here: for whatever reason, the Panda felt attractive in the end. Best, Emmanuel
While typically loving panda dials, I don't care for the Speedmaster version.
Why? It highlights how closey arranged the registers are. I prefer a panda dial with some space between the registers. Just looks much better to me. As for a general Speedy comment, I own the white dial and remain enthralled with it. I previously owned a ...
Thanks for your very interesting comments, Michael!
I think you have a point concerning the close arrangement of the counters. And there's no denying that the white dial variant is very appealing. Best, Emmanuel
I will admit, the polished hands on the panda look fantastic.
White coated on the regular black dial is understandable. Black on my white dial. I appreciate Omega for getting these details right! PS, on the white dial, I really feel it looks much better with straps than bracelet.
Absolutely, Omega is paying attention to details.
Good to know about the strap with the white dial: I’ll have to remember trying this next time!
The Speedmaster is a classic and an icon for a reason which is why the classic is still so popular and sells.
But there are so many variations it should be possible for most people to find at least one if not more that they like. I had an Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 (trying saying that fast after a few drinks) which was a Ceramic Speedmaster ...
The Type XXI has its own great charm, Marc, I fully agree!
It's interesting to know that legibility ended up being a problem on your Speedy (a point to always have in mind, I guess). Best, Emmanuel
I actually still really miss it.
Omega does amazing jog with the finishing on their ceramic cases and the laser ablated dial was really special but as I said if I can't easily use a watch for its primary purpose telling the time it has to go. Marc
My preference is for classicism . . .
. . . even though I can and do enjoy variations on a theme. Especially this one . . . . . . which I had a chance to acquire eighteen years ago on its original white gold bracelet. Don't ask about the seller's price . . . it hurts to think what I passed up...
The variants you own are definitely wonderful,
including the 25th anniversary white dial and the recent regular production one. By “preference for classicism”, do you mean the hesalite Moonwatch Professional or a vintage piece? In any case, I really thought I would prefer the hesalite, but ended up fi...
Oh, I don't own any of those variants, Emmanuel - all three . . .
. . . are limited or homage editions, all of which I like. The point I was trying to make is that I'd prioritize a 'classic' regular production version over any of them. Art
Neither!
I would save up for the VC Overseas reverse panda, with its amazing glossy/glassy black dial. I do like both these Speedies though, particularly the reverse panda. Thanks for the pictures Emmanuel. All the best, Jon
I understand the appeal of the Overseas,
but the price is 3.5 x more, there’s a date at 4:30 which I don’t like and I think the watch is less wearable for smaller wrists like mine. On the good side, it has a 15bar WR and the watch is finished to Geneva seal standards. I guess it’s a matter of pr...
I am not much for historical significance
But looks wise the new one. I like black lacquer, onyx, enamel for a dial vs matte most of the time. The subdials look great too.
Given your preferences, I definitely think
you would like the new Reverse Panda. Best, Emmanuel