Omega Speedmaster Reduced 3510.50 

Introduction

The Omega Speedmaster Reduced 3510.50 distils the hallmark Speedmaster aesthetic into a compact, automatic chronograph that slots neatly into modern wardrobes. While the Professional “Moonwatch” looms large in horological history, the Reduced offers enthusiasts the same black-bezel, tri-compax charisma with everyday convenience. 

History of the Speedmaster Reduced

By the mid-1980s many professionals wanted tool-watch functionality without the bulk of oversized cases or the ritual of daily winding. Omega saw an opportunity to broaden its Speedmaster family beyond space-flight origins and attract first-time buyers who appreciated the design but needed practicality. In 1988 the firm launched the Speedmaster Automatic line, immediately nicknamed the “Reduced” because its Ø38.5 mm case came in over three millimetres smaller than the 42 mm Moonwatch of NASA fame. Reference 3510.50—stainless-steel case, black aluminium tachymetre bezel, matte black dial—became the range’s backbone.

Early production employed Calibre 1140, a 46-jewel automatic chronograph created by coupling an ETA 2890-2 base to a Dubois-Depraz 2020 module. When ETA upgraded the base calibre in 1996, Omega followed suit, renaming the movement Calibre 3220 and increasing jewel count to 47. The company also refined dial printing, swapped tritium for Super-Luminova in 1998 and introduced slightly longer bracelet clasp blades to improve comfort. Throughout its run the Reduced spawned colourful variants such as the Schumacher Racing models (yellow or red dials with chequered outer tracks) and Japan-only “Tokyo Panda” editions—proof that Omega viewed the platform as a laboratory for fresh design cues.

Demand remained solid through the tech-boom years; magazine adverts featuring young entrepreneurs in rolled-up sleeves positioned the watch as the thinking person’s chronograph. Yet the early 2000s fashion swing back toward larger cases and the Moonwatch’s mounting cult status eventually nudged buyers away from the Reduced. Omega retired the 3510.50 around 2006, closing an 18-year production chapter that delivered thousands of units to wrists across Europe, Asia and Australia. Today collectors prize well-kept tritium examples for their warm patina and view later Super-Luminova pieces as entry-level classics that can still double as everyday beaters.

Dial Details

The 3510.50’s matte black dial stays true to Speedmaster DNA: three recessed registers, crisp white text and a bold central chronograph seconds hand that terminates in an arrowhead. Because the Dubois-Depraz module places its wheels above the base movement, the sub-dials sit fractionally lower on the vertical axis than those of the Moonwatch; seasoned collectors spot this at a glance. Hour markers are simple luminous batons, while a printed white minute track maintains readability. Early tritium plots develop a creamy hue over time, contrasting nicely with the still-bright white dial text. Later Super-Luminova versions glow a fresh green, retaining full low-light legibility. “Speedmaster Automatic” appears beneath the applied Omega logo at 12 o’clock, underscoring the watch’s mission: NASA styling, modern convenience. A domed Hesalite crystal crowns the dial, adding a nostalgic edge distortion prized by vintage enthusiasts and preventing the glare often seen on sapphire.

Chronograph Operation

Pushers at two and four o’clock activate with a positive click. The central seconds hand sweeps confidently, reaching the tachymetre scale’s “Base 500” reading within 7.2 seconds—a nod to the model’s motor-racing heritage. The 30-minute register at three o’clock tallies elapsed minutes, while the 12-hour counter at six lets you time endurance events or track dual time zones in a pinch. Resetting snaps all hands back to zero sharply, with negligible bounce, reflecting the sturdy cam architecture.

Wearability and Comfort

At Ø38.5 mm and roughly 14 mm thick—including the Hesalite dome—the Reduced slips easily under office shirt cuffs yet maintains enough presence for casual wear. Twisted lyre lugs curve downward, reducing overhang even on a 15 cm wrist. On the original five-row 1469/811 bracelet the watch tips the scales at around 115 g, light by modern sports-watch standards and ideal for extended deskbound sessions. The bracelet tapers from 18 mm at the case to 16 mm at the clasp, distributing weight evenly. Drilled lugs mean strap changes require only a fine-tip tool, encouraging experimentation with leather, NATO or rubber alternatives.

Comparison to the Speedmaster Professional

Choosing between Reduced and Professional hinges on lifestyle priorities. The Moonwatch offers a hand-wound, column-wheel Calibre 861/1861, heritage ties to Apollo, and a 42 mm case that some find imposing. The Reduced delivers automatic winding, a gentler wrist footprint and a lower entry price on the secondary market. Purists sometimes critique the modular movement and altered sub-dial spacing, yet many owners value the daily practicality gained. Ultimately the Reduced stands on its own merits: authentic styling, manageable dimensions and a historic role in Omega’s quest to modernise its flagship chronograph line.

Strap and Bracelet Choices

Omega’s 1469 bracelet remains the most recognisable pairing, with polished mid-links reflecting ambient light and brushed outers providing contrast. Sizing is straightforward via single-sided pins, though sourcing original links has become trickier; many Sydney-based watchmakers now 3D-print filler blanks for rare half-links. On leather the Reduced takes on formal leanings—black alligator for boardrooms, tan calf for weekends. A dark-green NATO complements tritium lume tones, while perforated rally straps echo the model’s automotive spirit.

Presence in Popular Culture

The Reduced flew under the radar compared with the Moonwatch’s Hollywood resume, yet it appeared on European television in the 1990s—most notably on the wrist of journalist Jacques Cousteau’s grandson Pierre-Yves during diving documentaries, reinforcing its tool-watch credibility. In print adverts, Omega framed the watch against sketches of Concorde and Formula 1 cars, signalling cross-disciplinary versatility rather than lunar exclusivity. These campaigns broadened public perception of the Speedmaster name, cementing the Reduced as a gateway into serious chronographs.

Modern Appeal

The pendulum of fashion is swinging back toward moderate diameters, and the Reduced now occupies a sweet spot: vintage looks without “dinner-plate” heft. Rising Moonwatch prices have also channelled collectors toward overlooked references, and the 3510.50 offers genuine Omega pedigree at a palatable figure. Early tritium dials with even patina fetch a premium, particularly examples retaining original boxes, papers and unpolished lyre-lug lines. Later Super-Luminova pieces provide glow-in-the-dark practicality and often appear cleaner due to younger age, suiting buyers who prioritise legibility over patina.

Sizing for Contemporary Tastes

On a 16 cm wrist, the case spans comfortably without lug overhang. The Hesalite dome adds vintage charm while shaving visual height at the bezel line. On a 19 cm wrist, the Reduced reads as understated, pairing well with tailored suits where a 42 mm Moonwatch might dominate. Thickness remains manageable thanks to the modular movement’s slim profile, allowing the watch to slot under a French cuff during business meetings yet look purposeful on a casual NATO at weekend barbecues.

Final thoughts

The Omega Speedmaster Reduced 3510.50 delivers Moonwatch DNA in a wearable, automatic format that resonates with contemporary sensibilities. Its extended production run, varied dial options and reliable Calibre 3220 create a satisfying ownership proposition whether you’re adding a first serious chronograph or rounding out a Speedmaster collection. Compact dimensions, an abundant parts supply and enduring design cues ensure the Reduced remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking heritage style without over-sized bravado.

Case in great condition with minimal wear visible. Bracelet in excellent condition. Light hairlines on clasp with minimal stretch. Bracelet retains original polish.

Dial and hands are in very good condition. Slight marks on hands under magnification.