Omega Launches Seven New 38mm Speedmaster Models with Moonwatch-Style Design

Key points

• Omega introduced seven new Speedmaster 38mm references, all featuring 38mm cases and 14.75mm thickness.
• The new designs replace oval subdials with round ones and include a wider bezel with the 'Dot-Over-Ninety' tachymeter scale.
• The black-dial, no-date model (ref 324.30.38.50.01.002) is priced at $6,500 and uses the Caliber 3332 movement.
• Other variants include steel, bi-metal, and diamond-set bezels, with prices ranging from $6,600 to $13,100.
• The collection includes a 'cappuccino' style with ivory and brown dials, and a white dial with a blue ceramic bezel.

Background

The Speedmaster, originally launched in 1957, became the iconic 'Moonwatch' after being worn on the Moon during Apollo 11. Previous 38mm iterations, such as the 1988 'Reduced' and 2017 updates, featured oval subdials and distinct visual languages to differentiate them from the 42mm Professional Moonwatch. This 2026 release aims to align the smaller size more closely with the classic Moonwatch aesthetic.

How outlets are covering it

WIRED emphasizes the new 38mm size as ideal for smaller wrists, comparing the black-dial model to the 1980s Speedmaster Reduced. Hodinkee notes that while the aesthetic shift is a significant improvement, the case remains proportionally thick at 14.75mm, a point of criticism from collectors. GQ highlights the practicality of the 38mm size for everyday wear, citing a survey of 3,000 enthusiasts who identified 38mm as the ideal watch size. Monochrome Watches provides detailed technical specifications, noting the use of Caliber 3330 and 3332, and highlights the return of classic round subdials and a cleaner dial design.

Why it matters

This release addresses long-standing collector demand for a smaller, more wearable Speedmaster that closely resembles the iconic 42mm Moonwatch. By adopting classic design cues and offering a range of price points, Omega aims to broaden the appeal of its flagship chronograph while maintaining its luxury positioning.

What to watch

Omega will monitor market response to the new 38mm Speedmaster collection, particularly the black-dial model. Future updates may focus on reducing case thickness or introducing new movements to improve proportions, as suggested by Hodinkee. The brand may also expand the collection with additional colorways or limited editions.