Omega Speedmaster Professional 3570.50: A Closer Look at a Modern Moonwatch Classic

Introduction

The Omega Speedmaster Professional 3570.50 stands as a defining reference in the long lineage of the Moonwatch.. Sitting between the older vintage iterations and the modern Super-LumiNova-equipped models, the 3570.50 from this transitional period combines vintage cues with dependable, workhorse reliability. With its Hesalite crystal, hand-wound Lemania-based calibre, and rugged case profile, it remains one of the most faithful successors to the original Moonwatch design.

Design and Case Architecture

The 3570.50 retains the traditional 42mm case diameter with lyre lugs and twisted flanks. The stainless steel case is finished with a mix of brushed and polished surfaces – brushed tops on the lugs, with polished bevels and sides, giving the watch subtle dynamic contrast on the wrist. The thickness comes in at around 13.5mm, giving it presence without overwhelming the wrist.

One of the hallmarks of this reference is the use of a Hesalite crystal. Rather than a modern sapphire, Omega stayed true to the original Moonwatch aesthetic and functionality by using this domed acrylic crystal. The Hesalite crystal is not only a nod to the past but serves a practical purpose: in space, it doesn’t shatter on impact – a crucial requirement for NASA astronauts. Look closely and you’ll spot the small etched Omega symbol at the centre of the crystal, a subtle but iconic detail unique to the brand.

The caseback of the 3570.50 is engraved with the famous “Flight-Qualified by NASA for All Manned Space Missions” and “The First Watch Worn on the Moon” inscriptions – a constant reminder of the Speedmaster’s unmatched spacefaring pedigree. This engraved solid caseback, rather than a display window, keeps the design faithful to the tool-watch ethos of the original.

Dial and Hands

The matte black dial is textbook Moonwatch: high legibility, sharp printing, and purposeful layout. 

The white painted hour markers and triple-register layout (running seconds at 9 o’clock, 30-minute counter at 3, and 12-hour totaliser at 6) are consistent with prior references. The white baton hands, including the central chronograph seconds hand, contrast crisply against the black dial, ensuring optimal legibility. It’s a simple, purposeful design – and one that hasn’t changed drastically since the Speedmaster Professional was first introduced in the 1960s.

Bezel and Tachymeter Scale

Another iconic feature is the black aluminium bezel insert, engraved with a white tachymeter scale. This scale – used for calculating speed based on time – is an original racing-inspired feature dating back to the Speedmaster’s 1957 origins. The bezel itself is thin and precise, giving the watch a slightly vintage air despite its turn-of-the-century production. The 3570.50 from 2000–2001 has the standard modern configuration of Dot Near Ninety (DNN) and not the DON, consistent with the era.

Movement: Calibre 1861

Powering the Speedmaster Professional 3570.50 is the Omega calibre 1861 – a direct descendant of the calibre 861 that replaced the original 321 in 1968. The 1861 is a manual-winding chronograph movement based on the robust Lemania 1873 architecture. It features a cam-lever actuated chronograph mechanism (as opposed to a column wheel), and beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz).

The movement is rhodium-plated, as opposed to the copper-coloured 861, and has proven itself to be exceptionally reliable over decades of use, both in civilian and aerospace applications. It features 18 jewels, a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, and is celebrated for being the movement NASA certified for manned space missions – meaning this reference, like its predecessors, has spaceflight credibility baked into its construction.

It’s worth noting that unlike modern Speedmaster references, the 3570.50 does not have hacking seconds, nor a quick-set date (it is a no-date watch). This minimalist, hand-wound configuration is another feature that connects the 3570.50 to its Moonwatch heritage.

Bracelet and Wearing Experience

The bracelet fitted to most Speedmaster Professional 3570.50 watches around 2000–2001 was the reference 1498 or 1998, both 20mm wide at the lugs and tapering toward the clasp. These bracelets offer a comfortable fit and a blend of polish and brushwork that matches the case finishing. Unlike later Speedmaster bracelets with screwed links, these use a pin and collar system for adjusting length.

The clasp is signed with the Omega logo and is fairly thin compared to modern designs. While it lacks the micro-adjustability of newer iterations, many collectors find this earlier bracelet to have a more refined, less bulky feel on the wrist.

Overall, the wearing experience is classic and balanced. The watch is toolish without being brutish – comfortable for everyday wear and formal enough to pair with a cuff, though most owners will happily wear it with denim or a t-shirt.

Position in the Speedmaster Timeline

The 3570.50 is one of the longest-running and most recognisable Speedmaster references. Produced from the late 1990s through to around 2014, it replaced the earlier 3590.50 (which used the 861 movement and tritium) and was eventually succeeded by the 311.30.42.30.01.005 with Super-LumiNova and calibre 1861. The early 2000s version specifically sits at a transitional point: the tritium era was ending, and modern materials like Luminova were being phased in. This watch does not have the T Swiss T, but Swiss Made so it would be one of the early luminova dials.

How It Differs From Other References

Compared to the earlier calibre 321 references (like the 105.003 or 105.012), the 3570.50 is slightly more robust in feel and uses a cam-actuated chronograph rather than the more traditional column wheel. It also lacks applied metal logos and stepped dials found in pre-1970 Speedmasters.

Versus the later references, such as the sapphire sandwich Speedmaster (3573.50) or the modern 3861-powered Moonwatch, the 3570.50 is purer in design. It doesn’t have a display caseback or hacking seconds but retains the Moonwatch essence that purists appreciate – manual wind, Hesalite crystal, and a solid steel caseback.

Final Thoughts

The Omega Speedmaster Professional 3570.50 from circa 2000–2001 holds a distinctive place in the Moonwatch legacy. It marks the end of the tritium dial era and the beginning of Omega’s modern production reliability. With its hand-wound calibre 1861, Hesalite crystal, and enduring design, this reference channels the original Moonwatch formula without compromise.

For those who value the Speedmaster’s history and want a wearable, robust, and authentic piece of space-watch lore, the 3570.50 is a smart choice. It offers all the essential elements – from the engraved caseback to super-luminova– in a package that still feels capable of daily use without the fragility or price tag of its vintage ancestors.

• Case & bracelet in great condition, very minimal wear visible. 
• The case remains very sharp indicating no polishing.

• Dial & hands excellent condition.