Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space vs Rolex Day-Date 40
Ref. 311.30.42.30.01.006 vs Ref. M228328-0069
Comparing the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space to the Rolex Day-Date 40 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$6,000 (market value) versus $55,250, 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
Day-Date 40
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space is priced at ~$6,000 (market value) while the Rolex Day-Date 40 comes in at $55,250. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space trades around $6,000 and the Rolex Day-Date 40 around $58,013, a difference of $52,013 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 Day-Date 40 also shows a healthy market premium of +5.0%, 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 Day-Date 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39.7mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.3mm | 12.4mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Black anodized aluminium bezel ring with tachymetre scale | 18ct yellow gold, set with diamonds |
| Crystal | Hesalite crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 167ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Omega calibre 1861 | Rolex calibre 3255 |
| Movement Type | Manual-winding | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Brown leather strap | President, three-piece semi-circular links |
| Clasp | Steel buckle | Concealed folding Crownclasp |
| Lug Width | 19mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Day-Date 40 leads in water resistance (100m / 330ft vs. 50m / 167ft), and the Rolex Day-Date 40 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Day-Date 40 opts for 18ct yellow gold. 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 $1,450 for the Rolex Day-Date 40. For water resistance, the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space 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, better value retention, timing functionality. Go with the Rolex Day-Date 40 if you prioritize the Rolex heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space or the Rolex Day-Date 40?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space is more accessible, priced at ~$6,000 (market value) compared to $55,250.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space currently trades at 9.1% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space and Rolex Day-Date 40 compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space measures 39.7mm in diameter and 14.3mm thick, while the Rolex Day-Date 40 is 40mm by 12.4mm. 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 Day-Date 40 runs on the Rolex calibre 3255 offering 70 hours of power reserve.
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