Omega Speedmaster Chronoscope: Details Make the Watch

Omega has more Speedmaster variations in its catalog than some companies’ entire product lines, so it’s no surprise to see another model hit the streets. The Omega Speedmaster Chronoscope brings much of the original watch’s vintage charm in a new and attractive package.

It offers the Speedmaster’s characteristic tachymeter scale around the bezel, but the dial is something else entirely. The 43mm watch features an exceptionally elaborate dial with timing, speed, and distance measurements. There’s also a 30-pulse-per-minute scale in the center that allows timing a human heartbeat. Rather than go for a three-subdial setup, Omega combined the bottom and 3 o’clock dials, including both minutes and hours.

It’s important to note that the Omega Speedmaster Chronoscope’s dial isn’t for everyone. Its busy design and multiple scales may be too confusing or geeky for some. If you’re into the watch’s timing and calculation capabilities, you’ll likely appreciate the dial’s intricacies, but you might be disappointed if legibility and quick time glances are the top priority.

The watch is available with a few different dial and metal combinations, including gold and steel cases. At 43mm, the Chronoscope is a bit larger than a standard Speedmaster. Even so, it retains many of the original’s quirkiness, including its shallow water resistance depth of just 167 feet. Omega’s Caliber 9908 movement powers the show, offering a 60-hour power reserve and manual winding. It features prominently under the watch’s display case back, offering excellent accuracy and reliability. 

Omega’s vintage-inspired bracelet pairs nicely with the Chronoscope, and it comes with a comfort release system that allows incremental adjustments. As part of the Speedmaster family, the Chronoscope brings the flexibility and wearability you’d expect, which means it looks great on leather, canvas, and the included steel bracelet.