Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional vs Rolex Explorer II
Ref. 310.30.42.50.01.001 vs Ref. M226570-0001
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional (chronograph) and Rolex Explorer II (field watch) represent different approaches to luxury watchmaking. While the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional is priced at $7,100 and the Rolex Explorer II at $10,750, both offer compelling value propositions. This comparison examines their specifications, market positioning, and investment potential side by side.
Price Comparison
Omega
Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional
Rolex
Explorer II
At retail, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional is listed at $7,100 while the Rolex Explorer II comes in at $10,750. At $3,650 less (51% savings), the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional offers a substantially lower entry point. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional trades around $6,200 and the Rolex Explorer II around $12,500, a difference of $6,300 favoring the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional. Available at 13% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Rolex Explorer II commands an even stronger market premium of +16.3%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Explorer II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional | Rolex Explorer II |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 42mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.18mm | 13.0mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | 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 Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 3861 | Rolex calibre 3285 |
| Movement Type | Manual-winding | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 50 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel bracelet | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Adjustable clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 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 Moonwatch Professional uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Explorer II opts for Oystersteel. With 7 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 Moonwatch Professional costs $148 versus $298 for the Rolex Explorer II. For water resistance, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional if you value a lower entry price, timing functionality. Go with the Rolex Explorer II if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Explorer II has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional or the Rolex Explorer II?
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional is more accessible, priced at $7,100 compared to $10,750.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Explorer II has a higher flip potential score of 5/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Explorer II currently trades at 16.3% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional and Rolex Explorer II compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional measures 42mm in diameter and 13.18mm 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 Moonwatch Professional uses the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 3861 with 50 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Explorer II runs on the Rolex calibre 3285 offering 70 hours of power reserve.
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