Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch vs Rolex Explorer
Ref. 3570.50.00 vs Ref. 1016
Comparing the Rolex Explorer to the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$6,000 (market value) versus ~$42,000 (market value), 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
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is priced at ~$6,000 (market value) while the Rolex Explorer comes in at ~$42,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch trades around $6,000 and the Rolex Explorer around $42,000, a difference of $36,000 favoring the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch. Trading at 12% above retail and trending upward, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Explorer shows a more modest market premium of 0.0%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Explorer edges ahead with a flip potential score of 6/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch | Rolex Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 36mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.3mm | 11.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel bezel ring with tachymetre scale | Stainless steel, smooth |
| Crystal | Hesalite crystal | Acrylic |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 167ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Omega calibre 1861 | Rolex calibre 1570 |
| Movement Type | Manual-winding | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel bracelet | Oyster, riveted or folded links (varies by year) |
| Clasp | Folding clasp | Oyster folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Explorer leads in water resistance (100m / 330ft vs. 50m / 167ft). With 6 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 $1,167 for the Rolex Explorer. For water resistance, the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch 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 better value retention, timing functionality. Go with the Rolex Explorer if you prioritize stronger flip potential. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Explorer has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch or the Rolex Explorer?
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is more accessible, priced at ~$6,000 (market value) compared to ~$42,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Explorer has a higher flip potential score of 6/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch currently trades at 12.1% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch and Rolex Explorer compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch measures 42mm in diameter and 14.3mm thick, while the Rolex Explorer is 36mm by 11.5mm. 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 runs on the Rolex calibre 1570 offering 48 hours of power reserve.
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