Omega has launched a new Speedmaster model designed specifically for pilots, blending vintage inspiration with contemporary craftsmanship. Dubbed a “modern tribute” to the original 1957 Speedmaster, this timepiece features a 40.85mm stainless steel case with a matte finish, housing a grained matte-black dial accented with vibrant orange details.
The watch’s design draws heavily from aviation instrumentation. The subdial at 3 o’clock mimics a cockpit’s burn rate indicator, while the small seconds counter at 9 o’clock adopts a target-like aesthetic, complete with a matte-yellow varnished hand and a blue artificial horizon motif.
Omega’s Legacy in Aviation
Omega’s ties to aviation trace back to World War II, when the brand supplied over 110,000 timepieces to Britain’s Ministry of Defence. Among these was the famed UK/CK2292, prized for its resistance to magnetic interference—a crucial feature for pilots navigating near powerful aircraft engines.
By 1957, the Speedmaster had become a favorite among U.S. Air Force pilots, some of whom later joined NASA’s Mercury program. The brand further cemented its aviation credentials in 1969 with the Flightmaster, a bold model designed for pilots and frequent travelers, coinciding with the debut of the Concorde supersonic jet.
Military-Exclusive Predecessor Revealed
Earlier this year, it was revealed that Omega had previously developed a similar Speedmaster variant exclusively for U.S. military aviators. Prospective buyers were required to provide proof of their status as “winged aviators, pilots, or navigators” to purchase the watch.
Precision Under the Hood
The new Speedmaster Pilot is powered by Omega’s METAS-certified Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 9900, ensuring exceptional accuracy and anti-magnetic performance. The closed caseback is adorned with the Speedmaster’s signature Seahorse medallion.
Buyers can choose between two strap options: a stainless steel bracelet or a grey NATO strap, both accompanied by a travel pouch. The watch is now available for purchase, offering a stylish yet functional nod to Omega’s storied aviation history.
