If you’re a frequent reader of our blog, then you’ll know that the Omega Speedmaster Darkside of the Moon is not only a universally acclaimed timepiece, but it’s also one of our personal favourite releases during the last few years. We’ve talked about this unique Speedmaster and reviewed it on several occasions, and last time we discussed it we related how it had been honoured with the prestigious Revival prize. Eagle-eyed readers would have also noticed a fleeting reference to a brand new ‘Lunar Dust’ version of this timepiece, and now we’re thrilled to bring you more details.
The initial appeal of the Darkside of the Moon (see below) undoubtedly came from its all-ceramic aesthetic, and the allure of predominantly black timepieces is also incredibly strong at present. The brand new ‘Grey Side of the Moon’ continues that former theme with a solid ceramic case, yet the colour scheme is very different. In one sense, it was perhaps fairly risky for Omega to unveil a largely grey timepiece, as such colours do not have a reputation for being eye-catching. In this case though, the seamless blending between the grey of the ceramic case and the flawless 950 platinum dial really is superb, so this bold take on an established icon certainly won’t be thought of as a step backwards.
Given the lunar connotations of this wristwatch, the grey theme is more immediately suited than the black was, but the Grey Side of the Moon – also known by the whimsical name of ‘Lunar Dust’ – is not just a successor, but a trend-setter in its own right as well. Usually, Super-LumiNova is restricted to the dials of prestige wristwatches, being used upon indexes or hands, but on the Grey Side of the Moon a full tachymetric scale has been implemented on the bezel using luminescence, along with the small Omega emblem that tops the crown. Another distinct choice has been made upon the 3 o’clock sub-dial, which displays both 12 hour and 30 minute intervals for extra convenience.
Of course, this configuration also allows the dial of the Grey Side of the Moon to be pleasingly symmetrical, as the date aperture is located at 6 o’clock. This dial – displaying an aesthetic that convincingly echoes the appearance of the surface of the moon – is shielded by a special box-form sapphire crystal too, and anti-reflective treatment is similarly present to keep legibility to an absolute premium. When it comes to the strap, it would have been very easy to detract from the subtle grey hues of the timepiece with a brash choice, so Omega have decided upon a complementary strap in darker grey that definitely adds to the Lunar Dust’s fascination.
This textured grey fastening incorporates a rubber insert for additional practicality, and the red stitching upon the inside band also perfectly matches the accents on the Omega Co-Axial calibre 9300, without overpowering the understated style of the Lunar Dust. The Co-Axial movement is visible through a bevelled exhibition caseback, in accordance with the preference of many modern horological connoisseurs, and a very special presentation box is provided as standard to complete the overall package. It goes without saying that the technical specifications of the Grey Side of the Moon are exemplary, so all told we expect it to be just as well received as its older brother was.
Here at Banks Lyon, we still have access to the Omega Speedmaster Darkside of the Moon watch as part of our unparalleled luxury watch collection, but now we’ll also be happy to take enquiries concerning the Omega Grey Side of the Moon Lunar Dust as well. A magnificent addition to an already venerated collection, the Lunar Dust will be available very soon, and, in the meantime if you have any further question about any of our Omega watches, be sure to contact our professional team today. Call us on 01524 38 48 58 or email [email protected] and we’ll be happy to assist you.
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