The History of the Mk40 Speedy
The Omega Speedmaster, since its inception in 1957, has remained a robust and dependable chronograph timepiece tailored for professional applications. Particularly by motorsport enthusiasts and pilots. Its durability and precision led to its selection as the official watch for NASA’s manned space missions.
Over the years, the Speedmaster underwent several updates and variations, including the famous Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, which was worn by astronauts during the Apollo moon missions. These developments cemented the Speedmaster’s status as an iconic timepiece.
In the late 1990s, (around 1996) Omega released the Speedmaster Mk40 (3520.50), marking a significant departure from the traditional design of the Speedmaster Professional. The Mk40 was designed to appeal to both motorsport enthusiasts and watch collectors with its unique features and aesthetics. It pays homage to the Speedmaster’s rich heritage, while incorporating modern design elements and functionality.
Design and Movement
The Omega Speedmaster Mk40 featured a striking black dial with three sub-dials arranged in a “triple calendar” layout. These sub-dials displayed the day, date, and month, offering a practical and useful complication. The watch also incorporated a tachymeter scale on the bezel, allowing wearers to measure speed based on time and distance.
The Mk40 is powered by the Omega caliber 1151. This is based on the famous ETA/Valjoux 7751 movement, a self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of approximately 44 hours. The watch was available in various materials, including stainless steel, two-tone steel and gold, and solid gold.
A Remarkable Piece of Timekeeping History
The Omega Speedmaster Mk40 was produced in limited numbers, which contributed to its collectibility and increased value over time. Its distinctive design, combination of chronograph and calendar complications, and association with the Speedmaster lineage made it highly sought-after by watch enthusiasts and collectors.
Another variation of the MK40 was the 3820.53. This has the red hands and a blue and black day/night indicator at the 24 hour disc.
The Mk40 represents a significant departure from the traditional Speedmaster design and showcases Omega’s ability to blend modern elements with the heritage of the iconic timepiece. Its unique features and limited production have made it a coveted watch among collectors.
It’s worth noting that while the Mk40 has become a notable variation of the Speedmaster line up, Omega has continued to release new models and variations of the Speedmaster, each with its own distinct features and design elements, building upon the rich history and legacy of the original Speedmaster.
38mm
19mm
48mm
13.5mm
My Thoughts on the Omega Speedmaster Mk40
Every serious collector probably has at least one Omega watch in their collection. I gave my son my Pre Bond Seamaster 200m and he wears it with pride, but this Speedy is on another level.
It looks stunning on the bracelet, but for me comes alive when you pair it with a Nato or Leather strap. They really are Strap Monsters, almost anything goes.
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