If you thought Omega had reached its limit with vintage Speedmaster reissues, think again. Meet the latest revival in the iconic line: the new Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space Anniversary Series. Powered by the cutting-edge Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber 3861, this release isn’t just about the movement—it’s a nod to a bygone era, with a twist.
At first glance, the new FOIS might seem like just another Speedmaster. For casual collectors, it could easily blend in with the Speedmaster 321 “Ed White,” but look a little closer, and the charm becomes clear. The star of the show? That stepped dial in a subtle grey-blue finish, a tribute to the rare Speedmaster dials of the 1960s. Achieved via chemical vapor deposition (CVD), the result is a refined tone that’s understated yet distinctly different from other recent iterations.
Omega’s attention to detail doesn’t stop there. The “dot over 90” bezel, the alpha hands, the faux-vintage lume—these are all deliberate nods to the CK2998’s rich history, while simultaneously appealing to modern tastes. The parchment-colored lume may be a divisive design choice, but in my eyes, it’s a stroke of genius, effortlessly blending past and present in one cohesive package.
Of course, the vintage aesthetic wouldn’t be complete without the perfectly sized 39.7mm case—a faithful recreation of the original straight-lug design. The highly domed sapphire crystal mirrors the acrylic look of the CK2998, another subtle touch that will make Speedmaster fans smile.
What makes this reissue even more compelling is the value proposition even though I still wouldn’t call this “a bargain” by any means. I guess, compared to the “Ed White” it is. Priced at $7,900, the FOIS sits comfortably between its siblings, with an attention to both history and modern quality that makes it hard to resist. Plus, with a flat-link bracelet featuring Omega’s easy-adjust system, it’s as practical as it is stylish.
Whether you’re drawn in by the grey-blue dial or the bulletproof cal. 3861 movement, Omega’s latest offering checks all the right boxes. It’s not limited in numbers, but let’s be honest—just like the new white dial Speedy, it’s going to be hard to get your hands on this one anytime soon.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.