The Omega Speedmaster Professional, affectionately known as the "Moonwatch," enjoys legendary status as the only watch worn on the lunar surface. Its iconic design and robust performance are undeniable. However, in recent years, a challenger has emerged, capturing the hearts (and wrists) of many watch enthusiasts: the Bulova Lunar Pilot, a faithful reissue of the watch worn by astronauts on the Apollo 15 mission. This article delves deep into a head-to-head comparison of these two chronographs, exploring their history, design, features, and ultimately, helping you decide which might be the better fit for you.
A Tale of Two Moons: Historical Context
The Omega Speedmaster's journey to becoming the "Moonwatch" is a well-documented story of rigorous testing and unwavering performance. NASA subjected various chronographs to extreme conditions, and the Speedmaster emerged victorious, proving its reliability in the unforgiving environment of space. Its presence on all six Apollo moon landings cemented its place in history and the collective consciousness.
The Bulova Lunar Pilot's story is perhaps less widely known, but equally compelling. While the Omega was the official NASA-issued watch, astronaut Dave Scott wore his personal Bulova chronograph on the Apollo 15 mission. This seemingly small detail has transformed the Bulova Lunar Pilot into a significant piece of space history, representing a fascinating alternative narrative to the dominant Omega story. The Bulova's presence on the moon, albeit unofficial, challenges the notion of a singular "moon watch," adding depth and intrigue to the horological landscape.
Bulova Chronograph Model #88510-01: A Modern Classic
Bulova's modern re-issue, the model #88510-01, meticulously replicates the key design elements of the original Apollo 15 watch. This includes the distinctive "applied" indices – raised markers – that create a striking contrast against the dial. The clean, uncluttered dial design prioritizes legibility, a crucial feature for any timepiece intended for professional use. The use of a high-quality quartz movement ensures precise timekeeping, a notable difference from the Speedmaster's manual or automatic mechanical movements. The case, typically stainless steel, offers a classic and understated elegance. One thing both the Omega and the Bulova have in common is that their lug width is 20mm, and they both look excellent on aftermarket straps, offering significant customization options for the wearer.
Omega Speedmaster Professional: An Icon Redefined
The Omega Speedmaster Professional maintains its classic design, which has remained largely unchanged since its heydays in the 1960s and 70s. This consistency is a testament to its enduring appeal. The iconic tachymeter bezel, the three sub-dials, and the distinctive "dot over ninety" on the bezel are instantly recognizable features that define the Speedmaster's aesthetic. However, unlike the Bulova, the Speedmaster comes in various iterations, including variations in case materials (stainless steel, titanium, platinum), dial colors, and movement types (manual-winding, automatic). This allows for a wider range of choices to match individual preferences and budgets. While known for its reliability, the mechanical movement requires regular servicing, unlike the quartz movement of the Bulova.
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