Overview of the OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced

The Speedmaster, also known as the Moonwatch, is an icon. It’s one of the most popular and historically significant models in the OMEGA family of watches. Over the years, the brand has developed different iterations of the model. This includes the Speedmaster Professional line and the Speedmaster Reduced. The Speedmaster Reduced from OMEGA is a bit different than a traditional Speedmaster. We take a look at their aesthetic and internal differences. Here is our OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced review and comparison of the OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced vs. Professional.

The OMEGA Speedmaster vs Speedmaster Reduced

The differences between the OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced vs. Professional and other variations of the Speedmaster are subtle. At a glance, you might not even notice what sets them apart. That’s why it’s important to look at our OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced review and understand exactly what makes the model unique. The most noticeable features that distinguish the Speedmaster Reduced from the other Speedmaster variations are in its design. One trait that characterizes the Speedmaster Reduced is the size. It’s smaller than your average Speedmaster, measuring only 38mm. Another noticeable aesthetic difference is the dial layout. First, the subdials on the Speedmaster Reduced are further apart. OMEGA has positioned them closer to the outer edge than the center point. On most other Speedmaster variations, the opposite is true – the subdials are closer to the center. The subdials at the three-o’clock and nine-o’clock positions are also reversed compared to other Speedmaster models. Additionally, the Speedmaster Reduced features the minutes in Arabic numerals every five seconds, except at fifteen, thirty, and forty-five. Conversely, most other Speedmaster models only feature stick markings. Finally, the Reduced version has the word “Automatic” on its dial. This brings us to the other core difference between the OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced vs. Professional and other iterations of the model.

Differences in the OMEGA Speedmaster Movements

It’s clear that there are a number of aesthetic differences between the OMEGA Speedmaster Reduced vs. Professional and other Speedmaster models. However, the most significant difference is in the movement. The Speedmaster Reduced houses an automatic movement based on the ETA 2890-A2, also known as OMEGA’s Caliber 3220. On the other hand, most other Speedmaster models come equipped with a manual movement. This includes a Caliber 321, 861, 863, 1861, or 1863, depending on the exact variation of the model. 

The Speedmaster Professional

The Speedmaster Professional is the only Speedy variation that has been to the moon and has the NASA flight certification. The model is a result of OMEGA’s longstanding work with NASA. It began in 1962 when astronaut Wall Schirra wore a Speedmaster on the Mercury Atlas 8 flight. The watch caught NASA’s attention, and they began their search for the official watch of the space program. After putting a number of watches through rigorous tests, OMEGA came out on top. Once the model received NASA’s stamp of approval for space missions, it also received a new name: the Speedmaster Professional. 

Since the Speedmaster Professional became NASA’s official watch, it’s remained largely unchanged. With a 42mm case and thickness of 14mm, the watch sits surprisingly flat on the wrist. In addition, the curvature of the lugs helps the watch sit snugly. The brushed stainless steel bracelet is nicely accented with small polished “mini-links,” giving the watch a slightly more three-dimensional feel. The contrast of brushed to polished surfaces is similarly executed on the case. Under the surface of the watch beats OMEGA’s Caliber 1861 hand-wound mechanical movement. It contains eighteen jewels and has a 48-hour power reserve when fully wound. OMEGA and NASA continue to work together to make subtle refinements to the Speedmaster Professional. For instance, they hope to create a variation that can withstand the conditions on Mars for a mission set for 2030.  

How to Choose: Speedmaster vs Speedmaster Reduced?

Even though the Reduced is no longer in production, it’s still a great watch for fans of the brand. It’s also a nice alternative to the typical Speedmaster. If you prefer an automatic movement or a more modestly sized timepiece, this is the perfect model for you. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional iteration of the classic Moonwatch, just be sure to use these visual cues and specifications as a guide to ensure you get the exact timepiece you desire.