Omega Speedmaster Racing : 10 Best Rugged Watches
Whether you are looking for a watch to be used on space exploration, an underwater expedition, or a land escapade, Omega has got you covered. This well-known luxury brand has a massive catalog of watches that can virtually serve any purpose. In particular, one of their most extensive and well-rounded collections is the Omega Speedmaster range.
The Omega Speedmaster Racing, under the brand’s famous Speedmaster collection, is one of the most famous chronographs the Swiss brand has ever made. It is notable for being the first racing watch in the Speedmaster family, crafted to meet the needs of passionate motorsport enthusiasts. The Omega Speedmaster Racing may not have been on expeditions to the moon like the Speedmaster Moonwatch has, but it is still a highly sought-after piece in its own right.
Without further ado, let us take a closer look at the Omega Speedmaster Racing sub-collection. We will be going the best Omega Speedmaster Racing models available, the history of the watch, and just what makes it so desirable.
Best Omega Speedmaster Racing Watches
The Omega Speedmaster collection is one of Omega’s most prominent catalogs, boasting a wide variety of tool watches that can accomplish almost anything and suit anyone’s tastes. The Omega Speedmaster Racing, in particular, is a chronograph watch that was created for motorists. Made out of premium materials, we have collated 10 of the best rugged Omega Speedmaster Racing watches you should definitely consider for your collection.
1. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.33.44.51.01.001
With its sleek black and silver-tone features, the Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.33.44.51.01.001 is an instant stunner. This particular racing chronograph piece is available in a robust 44.25mm stainless steel case. It features a striking black dial with a unique racing track-like minute scale on the rim of the dial. This is paired with a black leather strap with white stitching that completes the watch’s handsome look.
Like other Omega Speedmaster Racing models, this version is powered by an in-house Co-Axial Master Chronometer 9900, a certified calibre movement that allows for unmatched precision. This mechanism can withstand magnetic fields of up to 15,000 gauss. To maximise the watch’s functionality, Omega also added a black ceramic bezel ring that is marked with a tachymetre scale. You can purchase this model for just $6,479 USD.
2. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.30.44.51.06.001
The next watch on this list offers a quirkier and more playful design. The Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.30.44.51.06.001 features a rugged stainless steel case and bracelet. These match well with the watch’s sun-brushed grey dial. The dial itself features hands that are either in varnished orange or black tone, adding a touch of vibrancy to this watch, while the arrowhead indices are coated in white Super-LumiNova. Omega also added a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal on the top of the dial to protect it from any scratches or impacts.
Since this is a racing watch, it comes with a black ceramic bezel ring and a tachymetre scale. It relies on a powerful calibre 9900 movement that offers up to 60 hours of power reserve. This Omega timepiece is also equipped with a whopping 50-metre water-resistant rating, so it can easily survive a swim in the pool. It is available for only $6,969 USD.
3. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.32.44.51.01.001
Another grandiose black watch available for just $6,999 USD is the Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.32.44.51.01.001. It is a must-have piece for anyone seeking a sporty yet refined time-telling accessory to pair with your rugged motorbike.
The Ref. 329.32.44.51.01.001 features a stainless steel case, a black ceramic bezel ring, and a tachymetre scale. These blends well with the watch’s black dial and matching leather strap, both of which boast silver and orange accents that add a sporty vibe to the watch’s overall aesthetic. When it comes to performance, this Omega Speedmaster Racing watch runs on a top-notch calibre 9900. It is also water-resistant up to depths of 50 metres.
4. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.30.44.51.01.002
Sought-after for its sturdy build and masculine appearance, the Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.30.44.51.01.002 deserves to be on your radar. This timepiece simply exudes rugged professionalism. It has a robust 44.25mm stainless steel case and a three-link bracelet made of the same bracelet, paired with a suave matte black dial. On both sides of the watch, you can find a domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal that keeps the insides of the watch safe from scratches and impacts.
As with the other Omega Speedmaster Racing pieces, this watch runs on a powerful calibre 9900 that provides unparalleled accuracy. All in all, this is a great option for those who want a chronograph piece that they can wear on the streets and in the office. It is available for just $6,929 USD.
5. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.33.44.51.04.001
If there is one thing about this Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.33.44.51.04.001 that you will instantly fall in love with, it is definitely its clean and unblemished white panda dial. Paired with two chronograph sub-dials, outlined in black, at the 6 and 9 o’clock markers, the face of this watch resembles that of a panda, hence the nickname “panda dial”. This memorable watch face comes with a solid stainless steel case and a black leather strap that offers great comfort to the wrist. It is also furnished with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal that adds protection to the panda dial.
Aside from that, this watch relies on a Calibre 9900, a certified master chronograph by METAS that offers unmatched precision. You can experience its glamourous design and outstanding functionalities for a price of $7,299 USD.
6. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.53.44.51.03.001
Among all Speedmaster Racing chronographs on the list, this Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.53.44.51.03.001 is the most pricey. That said, it is also the most fashionable. This watch has an 18K Sedna™ gold case that simply oozes luxury. It also comes with a stylish sun-brushed blue dial and a matching alligator leather blue strap. On the watch face, you can find gorgeous rose gold hands and luminous indices that add to the exquisite look of this watch.
Aside from its delicate aesthetics, this watch also comes with superb functions. Omega uses its updated calibre 9901 movements to power this Speedmaster watch. It is also equipped with a water resistance rating of up to 50 metres. For a price of $17,969 USD, you can bring this voguish Speedmaster Racing piece to your next dinner party.
7. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.23.44.51.06.001
With its masculine and handsome grey theme, the Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.23.44.51.06.001 is one of the most in-demand models amongst Omega’s collections. It features a 44.25mm stainless steel case embellished with a lovely 18K Sedna™ gold bezel and tachymetre scale. This is paired with a matte grey dial and a matching grey alligator leather strap.
Like previous models, this Speedmaster watch relies on a Swiss-made calibre 9900 movement. It is also equipped with a water resistance capacity of 50 metres. Retailing at just $8,239 USD, this timepiece is perfect for men looking to make a bold statement.
8. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.30.44.51.04.001
Another minimalistic watch offered by the Omega Speedmaster Racing series is the Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.30.44.51.04.001, available for only $7,399 USD. This lustrous watch features a silver stainless steel case and bracelet, which blends perfectly with its straightforward yet attractive white dial. Powered by a certified chronometer Calibre 9900 movement, this Speedmaster Racing model has a water resistance rating of 50 metres. It is a must-have piece for aficionados looking for a straightforward yet classy chronograph watch.
9. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.30.44.51.01.001
The Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.30.44.51.01.001 is famous for the ruggedness it offers. Its case and bracelet are made of first-class stainless steel, which contrasts wonderfully with the jet-black dial. There is a layer of anti-reflective sapphire crystal on both sides of the watch, adding security to the watch face and allowing you to observe this timepiece’s certified Calibre 9900 in action. You can purchase this simple piece at just $6,699 USD.
10. Omega Speedmaster Racing Ref. 329.32.44.51.06.001
Last but not least, the Omega Speedmaster Racing 329.32.44.51.06.001 is attractive, thanks to its elegant vintage-inspired look. Stylish in every way, it features a solid stainless steel case, a beguiling sun-brushed grey dial, and a classy brown leather strap. The iconic racing track-style minute scale is also visible on the edges of the dial.
What ticks inside the watch is the certified chronometer Calibre 9900. This mechanism has a 60-hour power reserve and a water resistance rating of 50 metres. Priced at only $5,469 USD, this tasteful retro-inspired watch is the most affordable Omega Speedmaster Racing model on this list.
History of Omega Speedmaster Racing
The Omega Speedmaster Racing was released as the first-ever racing watch in the Speedmaster collection. Marked with the reference number CK2915, it was designed as a big and sporty watch and boasted an unusually modern aesthetic that continues to look contemporary even today.
From 1957 to 1969, the Swiss brand continues to produce watches for motorsports enthusiasts under this sub-collection. In the 1970s, Omega launched the Speedmaster Mark II Racing watch. The most remarkable thing about this model was its stylish minute scale. This scale, inspired by the watch’s racing theme, was designed to resemble a racing track, allowing for easier time tracking even when on the racetrack. Nicknamed the “racing” dial, it is a cool design that continues to be incorporated into Speedmaster Racing watches today.
Today, the Speedmaster Racing collection has grown considerably. With more extensive features, a variety of sizes, and different colourways, this sub-collection can meet the needs of just about any modern patron. In fact, perhaps the one constant that remains in every Speedmaster Racing watch today is the brand’s iconic “racing” dial. The Swiss watchmaker has also incorporated top-class in-house movements into this sub-collection over the years, including the manual calibres 1861, 3220, and 9900.
5 Reasons Why Omega Speedmaster Racing is a Must-Have Watch
There are numerous reasons why investing in an Omega Speedmaster Racing chronograph makes for a great deal. Here are a few reasons why you should definitely consider adding this watch to your collection:
- The Omega Speedmaster Racing is the epitome of a sporty yet classic watch. It is a versatile watch that you can bring to all sorts of different occasions.
- Its “racing” dial design is an iconic and exclusive feature you cannot find in any of its competitors.
- It is powered by a Swiss-madeCo-Axial Master Chronometer calibre. This is a certified and highly-accurate master chronograph movement by METAS.
- It offers a wide range of sizes, from 39mm up to 44.25mm, allowing any watch enthusiast to pick which size and style they prefer.
- It is recognised as a special-edition chronograph piece among global watch collectors and carries an unmistakable prestige as a racing watch.
Final Thoughts
Omega has dominated the industry since its inception. The Swiss watchmaker never fails to offer top-notch and high-quality luxury tool pieces exclusively designed for certain purposes. In addition, the brand only uses premium materials and the latest technology to craft its products.
In particular, the Speedmaster Racing, from the Omega Speedmaster collection, offers accuracy, reliability, and a unique, unparalleled design. It is a must-have chronograph for any professionals looking forward to experiencing the wonders of a stylish Swiss-made watch.
All images are from TheWatchCompany.com.
Featured image courtesy to Omega Official Website.
Still can’t get over with Omega’s superb features and want to know more about its modern timepiece? Spare some time and check our articles about the Omega Seamaster 300M “Beijing 2022” Edition.
