Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space vs Rolex Explorer II
Ref. 311.30.42.30.01.006 vs Ref. M226570-0002
Comparing the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space to the Rolex Explorer II means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$6,000 (market value) versus $10,750, 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
Explorer II
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space is priced at ~$6,000 (market value) while the Rolex Explorer II comes in at $10,750. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space trades around $6,000 and the Rolex Explorer II around $12,000, a difference of $6,000 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 Explorer II commands an even stronger market premium of +11.6%, 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 Explorer II |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39.7mm | 42mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.3mm | 13.0mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Black anodized aluminium bezel ring with tachymetre scale | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel |
| Crystal | Hesalite crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 167ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Omega calibre 1861 | Rolex calibre 3285 |
| 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 | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Explorer II leads in water resistance (100m / 330ft vs. 50m / 167ft), and the Rolex Explorer II offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Explorer II 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 $286 for the Rolex Explorer II. For water resistance, the Rolex Explorer II 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 Explorer II if you prioritize better value retention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space or the Rolex Explorer II?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space is more accessible, priced at ~$6,000 (market value) compared to $10,750.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Explorer II currently trades at 11.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space and Rolex Explorer II compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space measures 39.7mm in diameter and 14.3mm thick, while the Rolex Explorer II is 42mm by 13.0mm. 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 Explorer II runs on the Rolex calibre 3285 offering 70 hours of power reserve.
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