Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch vs Rolex Explorer II
Ref. 311.30.42.30.01.005 vs Ref. M226570-0002
Comparing the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch 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 Professional Moonwatch
Rolex
Explorer II
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch 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 Professional Moonwatch trades around $6,000 and the Rolex Explorer II around $12,000, a difference of $6,000 favoring the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch. Trading at 1% 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. For investors, the Rolex Explorer II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 4/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch | Rolex Explorer II |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 42mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.3mm | 13.0mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel bezel ring with tachymetre scale | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel |
| Crystal | Hesalite crystal front, sapphire caseback | 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 | Stainless steel bracelet | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Folding 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 Professional Moonwatch 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 Professional Moonwatch costs $143 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 Professional Moonwatch offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch 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 Professional Moonwatch or the Rolex Explorer II?
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is more accessible, priced at ~$6,000 (market value) 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 11.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch and Rolex Explorer II compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch measures 42mm 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 Professional Moonwatch 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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