MoonSwatch – Cooperation between Omega and Swatch

Introduction: Key data on the MoonSwatch watches

We'll start with a short introduction and look at the features and characteristics that distinguish the Swatch / Omega MoonSwatch:

Materials

MoonSwatch watches are primarily made of three materials. The case is made of so-called Bioceramic, a very special material that will be discussed in more detail later in this article. In addition, there is a high-quality Hesalite crystal over the dial and a textile strap. The Velcro strap is fastened with a hook-and-loop fastener—quite untypical for Omega, but all the more typical for Swatch.

Functions and dimensions

The heart of every MoonSwatch is the battery-powered quartz movement. The watch is not waterproof, only splash-proof, and features three subdials: a second and minute counter, as well as a small seconds hand. The functionality of the timepiece, which measures approximately 1.36 cm in height and 4.2 cm in diameter, is further enhanced by a tachymeter scale on the bezel.

Selection

The MoonSwatch is available in eleven different versions, each inspired by a different planet in terms of design and appearance. Most people should be able to find a version that matches their personal style, at least in terms of color.

Price

A surprise for many watch enthusiasts may be the price of this product from Swatch and Omega. At €250 per watch, the MoonSwatch is probably significantly cheaper than most industry insiders would have expected.

Design: Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch meets Swatch

The design of the MoonSwatch is definitely worth a closer look. The shape of the case and the design of the dial of this watch, which has currently generated a real hype, are clearly modeled on the famous Omega Speedmaster Professional timepiece. This deliberate resemblance is further emphasized by the "Speedmaster" lettering on the dial itself and on the strap. A key characteristic of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch and the new MoonSwatch is the elegant case with its sides tapering towards the strap. And the classic curvature of the hesalite crystal is undoubtedly strongly reminiscent of the "original," the Omega Moonwatch. A special highlight: the space theme is reflected on the battery cover of every MoonSwatch watch in the form of a matching star or planet image. Conveniently, the hands and hour markers on the watch's dial glow in the dark thanks to Superluminova. The Velcro strap, which serves as both the bracelet and the clasp of the timepiece, adds an unmistakably sporty touch. It makes the latest trend watch from the major brands, both of which are part of the Swatch Group, a truly everyday wrist accessory.

MoonSwatch models: What variants of the watch are there?

Watch fans looking for a colorful timepiece with a wow factor will be thrilled with MoonSwatch products. There are a total of eleven models to choose from, each dedicated to one of the planets in our solar system.

Mission to the Sun

With the MoonSwatch "Mission to the Sun," the sun rises: A radiant golden yellow dial with a sunburst finish draws all eyes and exudes pure summer vibes. The white bezel with orange numerals and the white and bright orange hands add a rich contrast and create a flowing color connection with the white Velcro strap.

Mission to Mercury

The "Mission to Mercury" version of the MoonSwatch is more subdued in color, but no less impressive. The case and dial are entirely in a dark, almost black gray, visually highlighting the white hands and numerals. The strap, also gray, adds a touch of modern elegance with its metallic sheen and is definitely an eye-catching piece.

Mission to Venus

The Swatch / Omega MoonSwatch "Mission to Venus" is primarily aimed at women and is predominantly finished in a soft, powdery pastel pink. The dial and bezel edge are subtly accentuated in matte cream, while the hands again echo the rose color of the case. Unlike the other Omega x Swatch models, this one features oval totalizer displays framed by small, glittering stones. The strap is plain white, thus not distracting from the feminine beauty of this elegant chronograph.

Mission on Earth

The "Mission on Earth" version of the MoonSwatch plays with the colors of our home planet: a lime green case and dial, as well as a deep navy blue bezel and strap, meet white subdials and hands in a dark, earthy brown. The result is a thoroughly harmonious overall picture that, as an abstract interpretation of our Earth, invites discovery, exploration, and experience.

Mission to the Moon

The "Mission to the Moon" model is clearly the MoonSwatch version that most closely resembles the original Omega Speedmaster. A silver-gray case houses a black bezel and dial with white numerals. The strap is also black and features a subtle, elegant satin sheen. Anyone familiar with Omega's Speedmaster Moonwatch will inevitably be reminded of it when they see this model.

Mission to Mars

Those who like to really go wild with color will love the Omega x Swatch "Mission to Mars." As a tribute to the red planet, this version of the watch features a fiery red case, complemented by a white dial, red hands, and a white Velcro strap. Unlike the other products in the series, the Mars watches feature hour and minute totalizers shaped like spaceships taking off. A small, playful detail that effectively puts the MoonSwatch Mission to Mars in the "special edition" category.

Mission to Jupiter

The "Mission to Jupiter" model from Omega and Swatch appeals to those who appreciate earthy and natural tones, but also value a certain refined quality in watches. The case, bezel, and dial of this timepiece feature a powdery beige hue, which perfectly complements the black strap and numerals. Against this rather subdued color scheme, the bright orange hands stand out particularly well.

Mission to Saturn

Brown, brown, brown are all my watches...or at least the "Mission to Saturn" from the Omega-Swatch collaboration. This timepiece combines a beige case and dial with the dark brown of the strap, bezel, and subdials. The silky sheen of the Velcro material gives the strap a bronze-like shimmer in the light, creating an extremely elegant effect. As an additional nod to the planet to which this watch is dedicated, a ring of Saturn orbits the seconds subdials.

Mission to Uranus

Cool pastel tones are trendy and especially popular during the warmer months. Omega and Swatch embrace this fashionable style with the "Mission to Uranus" MoonSwatch. The bezel and strap are kept in the background in white, while the dial and case radiate a radiant light blue. The hands are also pure white, blending seamlessly into the overall look.

Mission to Neptune

The design of the "Mission to Neptune" MoonSwatch has something mysterious and mystical about it. The case, in a maritime mid-blue, frames the bezel and dial in dark ocean blue, against which the white hands stand out. Combined with a black strap, the result is a watch that inspires a desire to explore the mysteries of the universe.

Mission to Pluto

Whether Pluto deserves a place among the planets of the solar system is still debated. What is clear, however, is that the "Mission to Pluto" MoonSwatch fits perfectly into the Omega x Swatch collection. This high-quality timepiece impresses with an incredibly harmonious design, perfectly coordinated in terms of color. The strap and hands are brown, the dial is a simple creamy white, the case has a cool gray tone, and the subdials and bezel showcase rich burgundy nuances.

Bioceramic: What makes the material used in Omega x Swatch watches special?

Some people somewhat silly refer to the Omega/Swatch MoonSwatch as a "plastic watch." This is neither entirely false nor 100% accurate. The Bioceramic MoonSwatch is made from a material mix that includes plastic, about one-third of which is made from plastic. This special plastic is plant-based and derived from castor oil. The remaining two-thirds of the mixture is ceramic, which is supposed to make the watches more scratch-resistant. The Bioceramic MoonSwatch feels quite distinct from watches made entirely of plastic, yet at around 32 grams, it's still a true lightweight.

Differences: MoonSwatch and Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch in comparison

As the issuing brands emphasize on their website, and it is also impossible to miss, the Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch is modeled after Omega's Speedmaster Moonwatch. Nevertheless, they are of course separate watch models that differ from one another in many respects. In addition to the price, which is significantly higher for the Speedmaster Moonwatch, the weight difference is immediately noticeable. The MoonSwatch weighs approximately 32 grams, while the Speedmaster Moonwatch weighs over 100 grams. In addition, the water resistance of the original Speedmaster is set at 5 bar, while MoonSwatch watches are only water resistant to 3 bar and are therefore only splash-proof. And of course, there is also a significant difference in the movement: MoonSwatch watches have a battery-powered quartz movement, while the Speedmaster Moonwatch uses a hand-wound Axial Master Chronometer caliber 3861. But even if the Swatch / Omega MoonSwatch does not come close to the Speedmaster Moonwatch from Omega on several levels, there are unmistakable similarities that allow the MoonSwatch models to be directly linked to the Omega original.

What is special about the Omega MoonSwatch / Swatch MoonSwatch cooperation?

The long lines in front of Swatch boutiques and the numerous inquiries via the brands' online store forms speak for themselves: There is a huge hype surrounding the Bioceramic MoonSwatch. But what is the reason for this? Well, for one thing, Swatch and Omega are brands that have made a name for themselves in the watch world and enjoy great recognition. For another, this is a collaboration that many watch fans would not have necessarily expected. Consequently, there is a certain element of surprise that is making waves. For many people whose budget does not normally allow for the purchase of an Omega, the MoonSwatch also represents an opportunity to get as close as possible to the original Speedmaster Moonwatch. On the other hand, the broad, diverse watch collection also plays a role: thanks to the large number of different MoonSwatch versions, anyone who wants to join in the hype will find a model they like.

Sales: Where are the MoonSwatches available?

The watches are sold exclusively in select Swatch stores. However, if you want to purchase a Bioceramic MoonSwatch at the moment, you'll need a lot of patience. After the sales launch at the end of March, the watches sold out in record time, and it's still unclear when they will be available again. Omega and Swatch state on their websites that the team is currently working hard to make more copies available. Anyone who wants to get their hands on a product from the MoonSwatch collection will likely have to be quick and join the queues in front of the boutiques. Alternatively, purchasing via eBay, eBay classifieds, and the like is an option. However, the watches resold there are usually well above the manufacturer's stated retail price. Buyers should also be on their guard: This wouldn't be the first time that overpriced fake goods have been advertised on eBay.

Is the MoonSwatch watch a limited offer?

According to the Swatch Group, there are no plans to limit the MoonSwatch series. In other words, the watches and accessories are intended to be produced and distributed in unlimited quantities. Once the initial hype surrounding the timepieces dies down, they could potentially become more accessible to everyone.

Conclusion: MoonSwatch causes a stir in the watch world

With the popular space theme, the successful color combinations, and, last but not least, the reference to the Speedmaster Moonwatch, the Swatch Group has clearly hit the mark. The Omega x Swatch collaboration series has literally turned the watch world upside down and proves that well-thought-out teamwork can also be crowned with tremendous success in the watch industry.