- Swiss luxury watchmaker OMEGA has announced two new Speedmaster Moonwatch timepieces, each reinterpreting the classic chronograph look with an inverted dial configuration.
- The latest OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Black and White models retain the 42mm case dimension, however, receive slick, dual-plated lacquered-finish dials and ceramic bezels.
- Inside, they are powered by the METAS-certified Calibre 3861 chronograph movement, which features a co-axial escapement and a 50-hour power reserve.
- The new watches are available in either stainless steel or the watchmaker’s proprietary 18k Moonshine Gold, with pricing from $16,400 for the steel model and $77,725 for the Moonshine Gold model.
Far be it from me to recount the fabled story of the OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch. There is perhaps no watch in history that bears the same level of cultural significance or narrative currency as the classic Swiss chronograph. Countless stories have been written about its influence, accuracy and that pesky time it made its way to our closest celestial neighbour, firmly cementing its place in horology’s hall of fame.
However, one point that often goes unmentioned about the Moonwatch is how often it is reborn and reinvented. Over the past decade, OMEGA has released no shortage of contemporary models, usually with minor tweaks to the case material or colourway. To start 2026, the Biel-based luxury watchmaker has gone big, unveiling two new reverse panda dial Speedmaster Moonwatch models with slick, lacquered dials. What a way to kick off the year.
OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch in Black and White
The latest OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Black and White models, as they are affectionately known, offer a refined aesthetic to the classic chronograph design. Available in either stainless steel or the watchmaker’s proprietary 18k Moonshine Gold, the releases feature a sharp black dial with white subdials, creating a stark contrast that is typical of the reverse panda style.
It’s a design choice that has been a favourite among watch collectors for years, made famous by classic models such as the Heuer Autavia “Jochen Rindt” Ref. 2446 from 1966 or the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona favoured by movie icon Paul Newman. The dial layout and monochromatic approach are intrinsically linked to 1960s design codes, for which the Moonwatch is also profoundly connected. In a word, it just works.
Admittedly, this isn’t the first time we’ve seen a reverse panda Speedmaster, or even the first time we’ve seen this reverse panda Speedmaster (actor Colman Domingo was spotted wearing one at the 2025 Met Gala), but the secret model has finally revealed. What’s more, it marks a pivotal moment in the range’s evolution. Not only are the two new models joining the regular collection, but they also take a leaf out of OMEGA’s more contemporary manufacturing playbook.
New Lacquered Dials
The new models are crafted with the Moonwatch’s essential step dial, however, this time OMEGA has incorporated a double-plated lacquered design. According to the watchmaker, the top plate is polished black, with a varnished and lacquered finish for superior sheen. This is also elevated by the use of rhodium-plated subdial frames.
Elsewhere, the base layer for the subdials is produced in white, also with a varnished and lacquered finish. The minute track is transferred in white on the main dial, while the subdials feature minute tracks transferred in black. You’ll also find the OMEGA logo and indexes, Moonwatch style hands, and the famous dot over 90 on the black ceramic bezel ring.
Ceramic Bezel
That, in and of itself, is an interesting addition. OMEGA’s use of ceramic bezel rings is becoming more prevalent and this example, which sports a tachymeter scale in white enamel, is perhaps the best execution. The ceramic insert gives a robust, rich visual contrast that plays perfectly alongside the reverse panda layout.
For OMEGA fans, the new Speedmaster bring a sense of balance back to the lineup. The brand has been experimenting with dial construction and layouts for years, and following the success of 2024’s white lacquer-dial Moonwatch, it was only a matter of time before we saw a reverse panda hit the scene.
Outside of the dial, the OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Black and White models wilfully retain the same dimensions and ergonomics. The 42mm diameter case shape is maintained, as is the 13.8mm thickness, helping to deliver that classic Speedy silhouette. The front features a box-form scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective treatment. The inner mechanics also follow a familiar framework.
Calibre 3861 Movement
Both timepieces are powered by the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, a movement that OMEGA describes as “the most advanced evolution” of the innovation that NASA astronauts trusted on the Moon.
Calibre 3861 powers the small seconds sub-dial, 30-minute recorder and 12-hour recorder, along with the central chronograph function. The manual-winding movement also offers Master Chronometer certification which guarantees the Swiss industry’s highest standard of precision, performance, and magnetic resistance, along with a stellar 50-hour power reserve.
Pricing and Availability
The new watches are available in either stainless steel or the watchmaker’s proprietary 18k Moonshine Gold, both of which are available now. Pricing for the stainless steel model starts from $16,400, while the Moonshine Gold option will set you back $77,725.
The timepieces arrive on polished-brushed bracelets, created in the standard Moonwatch style with the brand’s patented comfort release adjustment system. OMEGA also confirmed that a slate of NATO and two-piece strap options are available. For more information or to purchase the latest OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional reverse panda models, visit OMEGA’s official online boutique.
OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Technical Specifications
- Brand: OMEGA
- Model: Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional
- Reference: Ref. 310.30.42.50.01.004 (Stainless Steel) / Ref. 310.60.42.50.01.002 (18k Moonshine Gold)
- Diameter: 42mm
- Thickness: 13.8mm
- Lug-to-Lug: 47.5mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel / 18k Moonshine Gold
- Movement: Calibre 3861 METAS-certified Movement
- Power Reserve: 50 hours
- Water-Resistance: 50 metres
- Price: AUD$16,400 (Stainless Steel) / AUD$77,725 (18k Moonshine Gold)
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