Hesalite vs Sapphire Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch: What's the Difference?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 10 ก.ย. 2024
- This is a video review of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch, both with the hesalite and sapphire crystals. The watches used in this video were provided by Continental Diamond in St. Louis Park, Minnesota.
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Tags: Omega Speedmaster Professional, Omega Speedmaster, Omega, Moonwatch, moon watch, hesalite, sapphire sandwich, sapphire, watch, watches, unboxing, review, family friendly
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Correction: In the video l stated that the hesalite and sapphire models have the same movement finishing. This is actually incorrect, as the sapphire model's movement is more intricately decorated than the hesalite model. However, they are still both mechanically equivalent movements. Thanks to all that brought this to my attention in the comments and I apologize for this inaccuracy.
The hesalite model also has a delrin (plastic) brake in the movement while the sapphire model has a metal brake. Supposedly the delrin is more durable, but understandably, the metal brake looks better so it makes sense that it's included in the sapphire sandwich model.
@Daytona 6263 I did not know that! Is it just made of steel like the case, or is it ferrous for antimagnetism?
There is 1 part that is different. The delrin brake. On the display back it’s an ornate metal that ironically is not as functional.
Can you go with the hesalite and replace the back cover with the part from saphite ones? Will it fit? I would like to go haselite but not seeing that beautiful movement is deal breaker for me.
@@MatesSk007 The movement won't be as beautiful on the hesalite version. It won't be finished to the same degree and will have the plastic thing like previous comments said. I don't care about seeing the movement myself, not much.
I love both versions. Personally I think the hesalite does look considerably better and I also think it kind of gives it that more retro feel and look. Then again, the display caseback is an awesome thing to have. This video is great because it really allows us to compare them.
I picked up the hesalite after considering both for a long time and have no regrets at all. Looks crisp and warm, with no distracting milky ring, and the authenticity gives it bonus points. One of the greatest timepieces ever designed. The only thing I'd add is the applied logo from the sapphire version, but that's a tiny preference. P.S. Grim Fandango is one of the best games ever!!
I finally bought the Hesalite version. One thing to note is that there are display casebacks (not from Omega) that you can purchase for the hesalite version.
There’s no denying the hesalite crystal does look better than the sapphire crystal, thanks to the domed instead of box crystal, and absence of “halo”. However, I find the sapphire model to be the objectively better watch, as the sapphire is a better choice functionality for everyone not part of the NASA space program, and the display caseback (with better decorated movement) is more than worth the extra cost by itself.
Personally I think the hesalite model is the best choice for people buying a Speedy because of its connection to NASA (and for astronauts themselves), and the sapphire is the best choice for people buying a Speedy because they like the watch on its own merits. After all, the sapphire model was designed as an updated replacement of the hesalite, and NASA only kept the hesalite because scratches are better than chips in zero G and the plastic brake has better shock protection; neither point applies to civilians, making the sapphire a better choice, both in general and for me personally.
I’d love for Omega to update the standard sapphire model with the master chronometer movement (cal. 3861) and ceramic bezel from the A11 50th anniversary piece released a few months ago, as the metal bezel and uncertified movement are the only issues remaining with the sapphire model. The hesalite model should obviously remain untouched by any such modifications.
Omega could shape the sapphire crystal in the exact same way as the hesalite. It would look better. But they are lazy and cheap.
@@jeanraspail2979 their sapphires on their mk40s and seamasters are curved and no halo. The sapphire on this sandwich is ugly and cheap looking.
@@traviskoh999 grand seiko do it well too: th-cam.com/video/yB_I16wE-ok/w-d-xo.html
Looks like you got one of your wishes. Still waiting on the ceramic bezel. For the price increase for the new model, ceramic should have been included
I know the hesalite is closer to the og moon watch but the openback from sapphire is beatiful and i would buy saphire in the future
Still got my 1989 Speed and love it. Definitely hesalite cause closer to the original moon watch.
Agreed and cheaper
How does the hesalite hold op for this longer period?
Bought the Sapphire sandwich!I'm on the earth not on the moon...i prefer it to hesa glass
@Daytona 6263 i don't like scratches on the glass...do you like my answer now? I really don't care what you like or what collectors like. Btw, the world is full of people with hesa speedmasters, not the rarest thing, honestly i see very few sapphire models.
I found that the Hexalite model is also lighter than the sapphire one. I have two Hexalite models, one built on 1969 (not with the original 321 movement, but the 861) and another from 2013 with the 1861 movement.
The white halo on the Sapphire version bothers me but scratching the front crystal bothers me FAAAR more...
Sapphire version for me...
"sapphire version for me" dude u cant even afford buying a swatch relax lmao
I'd go sapphire too, for the same reason
@@ElementOleoo I just wanna know ,how do you know what he can afford lmao? Bro I’m 21 and can buy like 3 of them cash no problem
Hesalite is the way to go. I love the shape of it on the Speedy.
I own a 1994 Omega moon watch i bought brand new,,ill never get rid of it,,Love the original
What is your experience with the hesalite over this long period?
@@MultiLuc28 Ive not had any issues,,Ive had it polished by watchmaker 2-3 times,,its still clear
I love seeing these two next to each other. Before I thought I have to have the sapphire, but I dunno, I start to open my mind up to the hesalite, despite the drawbacks.
Have a hesalite Speedy w/ the sapphire back and love it, will never get rid of it. My first quote luxury watch. Needs a good service though been a daily wearer for years,
@C A I live in Texas and ordered the watch from a jeweler in D.C., don't remember how I found them. At the time I knew very little about Speedmasters and was only aware of the standard model at the time. What arrived was a 3572.50 which has the hesalite crystal and sapphire display back w/ the caliber 1863. This was either 2002 or 2004, I'd have to look at the paperwork.
Thinking about getting the hesalite, how easy is it to scratch?
@@stickmanbw It will scratch but if they're not to deep they can be polished out with polywatch. Hesalite is a form of acrylic.
The sapphire halo needlessly reduces the perceived diameter of the dial. My nod goes for the Hesalite. It adds a certain cool that is not often seen in modern watches.
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I wonder if it’s possible to get a hesalite model and change the back of the case to a transparent back. It probably isn’t the best idea but would be cool if omega even sold an aftermarket back for the hesalite model which allowed a transparent back to the case
If you ever get the hesalite version, buy the late 90s. The crystal from that era has a yellowish warmth. The indices also shows patina off white.
Good to know, thanks!
Maybe it's how the camera is picking up the reflection but both models appear to have the halo you mention @ 6:42 for a few seconds as you move them around. Stunning pieces and the bracelet is a nice improvement.
Everyone worries about damaging the Heselite but my AD said it’s only £150 to have replaced. Chill out and enjoy the best. Heselite
At the time you will want to replace it its probably 5 times that price 😅
I didn't even hesitate to get the hesalite crystal Speedmaster over sapphire. I love my MOTM Speedy.
Reviewer doesn't seem to own these watches. I have both watches and polywatch rarely works for anything but the most minor abrasion on the hesalite plastic crystal which is quite soft. Don't swim with the plastic model it is not as water resistant, that said the sapphire also failed from swimming. Sapphire models have (2) very different movement finishes depending on whether its a current model or from the 90's. The current sapphire model is rodium plated and looks silver but the older sapphire movement looks more gold in color. The plastic crystal movement is unfinished not polished and has a copper color. The video doesn't show the fact that the sapphire always appears smaller and the plastic dome magnifies the dial. All 3 movements have different numbers. In the flesh the hesalite is the better looking watch but don't get it if constant scratching bothers you.
The movements are not finished to the same level on both of these watches. The original MOTM is not finished to the same level. Also it features a plastic element (which Omega claims to be more resistant than metal btw.).
I have just posted a correction in the comments to this fact. Thanks for brining this inaccuracy to my attention.
So sapphire movement is lil inferior than normal one?
@@anishabisht4213 The movement featured in the sapphire version is finished to the higher level than in the hesalite.
@@adambrosz5219 so on paper sapphire variant will last more?
@@anishabisht4213 They both will last a lifetime. In fact, the 861 movement featured in the hesalite version is the one used by astronauts and Omega claims that the "plastic" break is more resistant to wear than the metal one featured in 863 (sapphire version). In any case - they are both great :)
I thought for a second that you’d damage the movement when you pressed the reset button whilst the chronograph was running. On a separate note, i got the hesalite version due to its closer resemblance to the original moonwatch. Nice review.
Doing that can damage the movement?
@Michael Dude now I learn why to do experiments on a cheaper watch before buying an expensive one lol
When I get one in the future, I’m going to get the hesalite. Stick with the OG and is a bit cheaper.
It’s the way to go! Love mine.
The hesalite also looks a lot better.
They’re both cool but I love exhibition casebacks so I’d have the sapphire
Sapphire all the way imo. One thing nobody mentions is that the grey Halo effect kinda reminds me of the moon I don't know why lol. Great video though.
Thats a very good point. The halo gives a space feel to it. Thank you for pointing it out!!!
Genius. I just ordered a moonwatch in saphire cause they were sold out at my AD. I kinda getting tempted to change for the hesalite but now, your point changed it all. Thank you captain
Now I can't unsee the halo and see how much better the dial looks without. It is the reason.
I really like to see the movement though 🙈
If you're planning a trip to the moon, definitely go for the hesalite. Otherwise, I think the sapphire crystal is so much better for an earthbound creature like me. I love mine.
Wearing my 2018 hesalite Speedmaster as i type this.
Love it
Excellent review. Timely. I am deciding between the two as this will be my next watch purchase. Moving into a higher end piece. Thank You.
dfunklegend Fontdawg depends on if sticking to the heritage is important to you. Personally I wouldn’t buy a luxury watch without a Sapphire crystal
Well, I’m a desk jockey. Not a lot of chance of damage in my day to day. And at least the price reflects the difference. I’m really considering the hesalite.
@@dfunklegendfontdawg5023 Trust me get the sapphire Crystal you will get it badly scratched with a staple. I scratched my watch one time just walking past a brick wall.
Thanks for the video. Was waiting for such an informative comparison between the two.
Now to save for the next 5 years.
Hang in there. Picked up mine 23 July 2019. Exactly 50 years since the Apollo 11 mission.
The dial looks more black on the heselite version
can I swap the crystal after purchase?
could we have the best of both worlds (hesalite glass, display caseback)?
we can. but its a discontinued model
3572.50
You can actually go to omega and make them change the front glass. The hesalite is way cheaper
Réda Taoussi since when does omega change the front glass?
Just bought the Sapphire Sandwich today in Australia 8,925
Wow what an achievement
If you're thinking about buying this watch you will not regret spending the extra cash on the sapphire version, it doesn't scratch as bad as the hesalite and the open back is a great touch too
I thought about getting the sapphire, but I really like the hesalite clearness more than the cloudy ring on the sapphire.
Hi Good Review. I own the Hesalite Modell for more than one year now and it is my every day watch. Yes it gets micro Scatches, Poly Watch is the answer. For this extra 1 K Bucks, I would go for a Rolex Explorer. If available . Nevertheless, it is a beautiful and timeless watch. Greets from Germany
Big watch collectors also tends to get the calibre 321 moon watch.
I'm about to order the hesalite version, i do like the back on the crystal but the hesalite seems more doomed to look at which i like, but obviously whatever people do choose they are mighty fine watches
the movements are slightly different. 1861 on the hesalite 1863 on the SS
True
I have just posted a correction in the comments to this fact. Thanks for bringing this inaccuracy to my attention.
dirkworld wich movement is the best?
@@entwouanne its the finishing mostly because of the exhibition case back. Also the 61 has a delrin break and the 63 is steel. But truth be told the delrin is prolly better for wear
dirkworld okok i see thanks for the input i got a saphir sandwich cristal coming in the next 2 week they are both great for me dont mind either and didnt choose the version i got
Sapphire wins. Hesalite still has a Grey rim depending on the angle.
Good video, nicely explained, but really, do you need to keep moving the watches so much, keep them steady so people can see the watches clearly, you keep shaking them, making it difficult to see them clearly. Thats my rant over.
It’s all personal preference, so having owned a plastic crystal watch before, when it came time to purchase my first moon watch, it was an easy decision to go with the sapphire sandwich. Helsalite is plastic. No two ways about it. I didn’t like the cheap sound the plastic domed watch makes when it made contact with my shirt sleeve button - or anything else. The sapphire version gives u everything you’d expect from a true luxury watch. I get the iconic original design, but I didn’t want to spend a sizable amount on a watch made of the same materials as things that come out of a gum ball machine.
Daytona 6263 Can’t disagree with you. I’m not a collector. And the sapphire version fits my lifestyle best. I was actually thinking about gettin a reduced version to supplement my addiction. Lol. But I’m not a collector! Arrghh
100% agree wouldn’t buy a luxury watch without sapphire
the sapphire may not scratch but the AR coating sure does.......get the hesalite.
Excellent review, thank you.
Nice comparison. Liked and subscribed.
Thank you very much!
Is it just me, or does the sapphire make the dial look slightly bleached
Super insightful!! Thanks!
Great Video, Question: if the case dimensions are the same, is it true to say that the crystals and the case backs can be interchangeable between the cases?
I cant answer your question. But the hesalite versions movement is not finished as nicely as the "sapphire sandwich" movement. Something to keep in mind...
5:21 made me grimace. Checked to see the chrono was running and STILL tried to press the reset pusher hard! Won't do that too many times
Did he brake the movement? Thought these watches were supposed to be a little more robust than that.
@@Virtualmix They are robust yes, but it is unnecessary wear on the reset mechanism, especially when pushed hard like that - just something easily avoidable
What is the model of the hesalite model, when I look at the Omega website there seems to be so many different models and even different bezel sizes.
i think the hesalite is the one without the displace case back
I ve the gmt Blue, and i m looking for the moonwatch, now i know i ll buy the zafire, the machine movement si amazing
wish they made the sapphire version with the domed crystal look like the hesalite..
is the watch chain different between those two model?
The original hesalite version also has that cool omega seahorse logo (or whatever it is). I will probably go with the Hesalite version if/when I get a Moonwatch. Sapphire would be shmicko but the milky ring ugh.... it's a tough pill to swallow.
I believe the animal is called a hippocampus, from Greek mythology, I think
@@krsone2 Yes :)! I just checked on Wikipedia and it's a seahorse AKA hippocampus. Same thing.
Great video thank you for clearing this up. I want to go as close to original warn by Apollo astronauts. So Hasalite it is
Contain one of those two models any gold, inside or outside?
I think you meant to say shatter resistant. Good review of the watch!
Thanks for this info!!
Interesting and informative. Would the prices you quoted for Hesalite replacement include labor? Thank you for your time.
Old Fool, The prices quoted in the video were merely ballpark estimates from what I have gathered from online research. The crystals themselves tend to cost around $35-$50 and then labor on top of that varies. If you would like the most accurate pricing I would recommend that you contact a local AD or watchmaker that has experience with Omega. One thing to note, however, is that if the watch is sent to Omega for the replacement, it will be significantly more expensive as they typically will service the watch as well.
Can I have the hesalite front but the see through back?
Do you know what omega charges to service these movements?
I have no need for a chrono but like the look of this watch.
£570 price for speedmaster moonwatch
@@shaf1485h I believe its now £630, I checked because I have had one from 1973 that needs a service.
@@Golo1949 $750.00 USD for auto and mechanical movements, just got my 12 year old Planet Ocean back from servicing two weeks ago. (it took 2 months btw)
I have had a Speedmaster Moonwatch from 1973 bought new, I accidentally knocked the bezel, glass and fingerers off later in the 70's. I had it repaired by an agent but at the time I never noticed that my original glass had an Omega letter etched in the center, after repair the new glass didn't have it. As I'm looking to have it serviced would they replace the hesalite glass with the original type? I would like to keep it as original as possible.
BTW what I mean is the original hesalite had the logo do they still use them?
I'm not sure about the newest models, but my hesalite speedy from the 2000s has the omega logo engraved in the middle of the crystal
Hesalite looks better, but if I had one it would have been destroyed a few days ago when I rubbed my moon watch against a bare concrete wall while carrying a heavy box. Not a single scratch on the sapphire...
The Omega logo on top of the hesalite cristal is only on that specific model or is it on the sapphire one too?
Omega only puts their logo in the center of their hesalite crystals. They have actually been doing this for at least 50 years, as I have a 1960s Seamaster DeVille with a hesalite crystal and it has the logo under the crystal as well.
@@WatchesOnYou Glad I read that, I hadn't when I commented above as my replacement doesn't. I am looking to have it service and want to make sure its as original as possible.
Thanks for the info on Hesalite - any thoughts on the 2021 models
The hesalite has the far better look to it (minus caseback) but i'd really prefer the strength of the sapphire, i dont want to be polishing scratches out of my watch every couple of months (im really picky about scratches on anything).
Do you think they would ever change the shape of the sapphire crystal if, lets say, technology advanced to a point where it was possible exactly replicate the hesalite shape, that Omega would update the look of the sapphire model?
Agreed 100% ! The Hesalite looks nicer but not by a huge margin IMO. However, the almost worry free factor regarding the sapphire resistance is a clear winner in my department. This goes according personal taste. Some people wouldn't care about scratches but unfortunately, I do !
As for the changing the sapphire shape with this specific model, I believe it's nearly impossible. There is a video (can't find right now but it's easy to google it) explaining why they had to design it this way. It's really a trade off ! Nicer look vs FAR more crystal resistance. Concerning authenticity between both as some claim, I don't give a crap. Not even the current Hesalite version is 100% loyal to the one wore by Buzz Aldrin or Neil Armstrong back in 1969.
Is there a difference in water-resistance?
No
Sapphire sandwich movement better finish + no plastic part .
Excellent review :)
I'm fine with either one so please let me buy one soon
Why not apply a screen protector on the hesa?
Thanks for the info.
What model has the hesalite crystal with the sapphire case back?
Patrick Leal 3592.50 with the calibre 863 movement, and 3572.50 with the calibre 1863.
It would be great if the sapphire was curved around the edges just like the hesalite. I saw it on the Grand Seiko SBGY003 and it looks great.
True omega is just lazy
True. I have an Oris Diver 65 which is a replica of an Oris watch from 1965. They managed to replace the hesalite cristal of the original by a sapphire version that exactly curve the same way. It looks amazing and I'm talking about a 1500 $ watch, so obviously Omega just don't want to make the effort!
Hesalite all the way!!!
For sure
LoL plastic over saphire :)
Hesalite all the way
now i cant unsee the halo. LOL.
Omega wasn't made because of the Speedmaster! They were already one of the world's foremost watch companies, timing the Olympic Games as Official Timekeeper far back as 1932. The Seamaster 300 was the basis for the UK's Ministry of Defense official MilSpec guidelines for diving watches. Omega has a far longer and more storied history than say, Rolex.
PLEASE get your facts straight...!
The movements are not the same the Sandwich has some parts made of stainless steel to make the movement look prettier and making it a better choice. Also Sapphire is more resistant to breaking when by accident you hit the wall or doors trust me I know. In regards to sapphire not being in the original that is people being stupid cause neither was the new and better bracelet. I don't hear people say they don't want the new bracelet because it was not in the original. Buy what is best fall in love with your watch. Just got the sandwich from my kids and ex wife for my birthday and believe me looking at the movement and showing it off to friends is worth the extra money.
Luis Padilla enjoy the watch in good health my friend. No need to compare it to anything. Most people on this planet can’t even afford a watch for $10 let alone one for multiple thousands!
I have just posted a correction in the comments to this fact. Thanks for bringing this inaccuracy to my attention.
Always be nice to your ex-wife ;)
Actually they didn’t use a bracelet on the missions to the Moon, watch the pics and you’ll see a Velcro strap, double loop when attached to their wrists, and single loop when over the space suit... Part number: SEB1200030-202, and it’s included as a souvenir in the Moon Watch box (big one).
@@FabioPascuaThePilot I understand that. I meant the original bracelet was not as good as the new one.
Can you orther it with a hexalite and sapphire back?
Good vid....maybe a little less RedBull for the next one though.
they aren’t the same movement it’s 1861 vs. 1863 the finishing is different
The hesalite have the Omega logo on it
I was just asking that. Mine originally did but I didn't notice that after it had been repaired when i knocked the front off the replacement didn't have it. That's if you mean that there is an Omega letter in the centre of the glass.
Sapphire adds solidity, depth and Quality to the Moonwatch.
Hesalite per sempre!
Get both
Only the pre moons is worthy and carry the history !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Exactly if your going modern get the sapphire.
Au prix que facture Omega sur sa Speedmaster en verre plastique, je regrette que le calibre 1861 n'est pas le même niveau de finition que le 1863... même s'il reste non visible à cause du fond de boite en acier...
The movements are different. 1861 in the hesalite, 1863 in the Sapphire Sandwich. Essentially a higher-finished variant of the the same calibre, to go with the display back. I think I may bite the bullet today in fact.
Plexi and solid case back is the ONLY true Speedy!!
5:22 😬😐
Plastic watch crystals don't live a good life in this house.
Hesalite is better in everyway
Aaaaaaaargh i cant unsee it now
He almost murdered that chronograph
bubble hesalite wins
One watch is $1,000 more than the other. It's a no brainer to just get the best most expensive version with ALL the bells and whistles.
Is it though?
I wonder how much the hessalite costs, if its fairly cheap you could change it up every few years and still be ahead.
But you won't ever get the caseback with the 1863 movement. With the saphire model you can get a front hesalite crystal afterwards for 35 or 50 bucks and have he best of both worlds
You have to love a speedie
I bought a brand new speedy with the heselite for $3250 😎
DLH wow DLH where did you buy it
Joshua Raleigh you gotta build a long term relationship with your AD.
@@dlhussain81 what? Elaborate please
Realme C1 on what?
Joshua Raleigh by the way I sold the speedy, just doesn’t cut the mustard when you are used to better watches.