So, I finally got my hands on that OMEGA Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch I’ve been eyeing, the one with the open case back. I gotta say, it was a bit of a journey, but totally worth it.
It all started a few months back. I was browsing online, just window shopping, you know? And there it was, the Speedmaster, looking all sleek and shiny. I’ve always been a fan of watches, but this one, with its history and all, really caught my eye. The fact that you could see the movement through the back, that was the clincher for me.
First, I started doing some research, reading up on the different models. There was a lot of talk about the “Pre-Moon” versions and how they had a different case back design. I learned that the early Speedmasters had a single-angle beveled case back, but later they switched to something else.
Finding the Right Tools
Then came the tricky part: figuring out how to open the case back. I’m no watchmaker, so I definitely didn’t want to mess anything up. I found a bunch of posts online talking about special tools for this, like conical rubber plugs. Some folks even suggested DIY methods, but I wasn’t about to risk scratching up my new baby.
I decided to play it safe and order a proper case back opener. It took a bit of searching, but I finally found one that seemed reliable. While I was at it, I also picked up a few other tools, just in case. You never know when you might need to adjust a bracelet or something, right?
Getting My Hands on the Watch
With the tools sorted, I focused on actually buying the watch. This was another adventure in itself. I checked out a few online stores, comparing prices and looking for the best deal. I wanted the hesalite crystal version, but I also really wanted that exhibition case back. I read somewhere that OMEGA used to offer that combination, but apparently, they don’t anymore. Bummer.
Eventually, I found a seller that had the exact model I was looking for. We exchanged a few messages, I asked a bunch of questions, and finally, I pulled the trigger. Paid for it and waited with bated breath.
The Big Moment
A few days later, the package arrived. I was like a kid on Christmas morning. I carefully unpacked the box, and there it was, the Speedmaster in all its glory. It was even more beautiful in person. I spent a good hour just admiring it, winding it up, and listening to it tick.
Then came the moment of truth: opening the case back. I got out my new tools, took a deep breath, and carefully applied the opener. It took a bit of wiggling, but finally, the back popped open. And there it was, the Caliber 3861 movement, ticking away. It was mesmerizing. I could see all the little gears and springs working together, it was like a tiny city in there. I know some people will see it and think, “What’s the big deal?” They’re probably right. But when you’ve been anticipating this moment for so long, it feels kind of special.
- Admiring the Movement
- I learned that the Caliber 3861 is a manual-winding movement with a Co-Axial escapement.
- It’s also a certified Master Chronometer, which means it’s super accurate and resistant to magnetic fields.
- The whole thing is just a masterpiece of engineering.
I spent the rest of the day just staring at the movement, taking pictures, and reading up more about it. I even found out that this particular model tends to hold its value well, especially the vintage ones. Not that I’m planning on selling it anytime soon. This one’s a keeper.
Anyway, that’s my story of how I got my hands on an OMEGA Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch with an open case back. It was a bit of a process, but totally worth it. Now I have a beautiful timepiece with a fascinating movement that I can admire whenever I want. And hey, it’s a great conversation starter too.
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