Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space vs Rolex Air-King
Ref. 311.30.42.30.01.006 vs Ref. M126900-0001
Comparing the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space to the Rolex Air-King means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$6,000 (market value) versus $8,450, these two watches serve different segments of the market. Here's how they stack up on specifications, value retention, and investment potential.
Price Comparison
Omega
Speedmaster First Omega in Space
Rolex
Air-King
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space is priced at ~$6,000 (market value) while the Rolex Air-King comes in at $8,450. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space trades around $6,000 and the Rolex Air-King around $9,500, a difference of $3,500 favoring the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space. Trading at 9% above retail and trending upward, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Air-King commands an even stronger market premium of +12.4%, holding steady. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 5/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space | Rolex Air-King |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39.7mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.3mm | 13.1mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Black anodized aluminium bezel ring with tachymetre scale | Oystersteel, smooth |
| Crystal | Hesalite crystal | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 167ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Omega calibre 1861 | Rolex calibre 3230 |
| Movement Type | Manual-winding | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Brown leather strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Steel buckle | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension |
| Lug Width | 19mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Air-King leads in water resistance (100m / 330ft vs. 50m / 167ft), and the Rolex Air-King offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Air-King opts for Oystersteel. With 8 notable spec differences in total, the choice depends on which features matter most to your use case.
Value Per Feature
Per millimeter of case diameter, the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space costs $151 versus $238 for the Rolex Air-King. For water resistance, the Rolex Air-King delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space if you value a lower entry price, timing functionality. Go with the Rolex Air-King if you prioritize better value retention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space or the Rolex Air-King?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space is more accessible, priced at ~$6,000 (market value) compared to $8,450.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Air-King currently trades at 12.4% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space and Rolex Air-King compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space measures 39.7mm in diameter and 14.3mm thick, while the Rolex Air-King is 40mm by 13.1mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 167ft versus 100m / 330ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space uses the Omega calibre 1861 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Air-King runs on the Rolex calibre 3230 offering 70 hours of power reserve.