In partnership with
click to browse watches
Hey {{first name|Watch Nerds}}!
We’re talking SPEED today. An no, not the one that went to the moon. IMO, this one is even cooler and it can be yours! Here’s what we got today:
Specs
My Review
About The Watch
And More
Omega - Speedmaster Mark II
Introducing the Omega Speedmaster Mark II—a refined take on the original Speedmaster that delivers all the prestige without the astronomical price tag. With its distinctive barrel-shaped case and bold, easy-to-read dial, the Mark II blends classic chronograph functionality with a modern, streamlined design.
Powered by the reliable Caliber 861, it’s built to handle everything from your daily grind to weekend adventures. The enhanced tachymeter, directly printed to the underside of the crystal, adds both practicality and flair. It's Swiss-made, sharp, and a part of the Speedmaster legacy—just not at Moonwatch prices. A piece of history, ready to wear today.
Watch Specs
📏= 41.5 mm 🌊= No
💰= $2,500
👨🦲 My Review
Thanks again to Seth at the Laughter Collection for loaning me this watch for almost a month! I’ve never worn a chronograph (stopwatch function) before. I don’t get the hype. But I always wanted to test out a Speedmaster. So here’s my two cents.
It’s easy to read. It does not have a date complication, which makes it easy to set. As a manual wind, you have to wind the watch to power it every day(ish). I thought this would be a pain, but it was actually quite fun and fulfilling.
Vintage Yet Modern
I actually used the stopwatch function a few times. If you work in an environment where people like to get on their soap boxes and endlessly talk, you can easily time their ranting, without anyone knowing. I say this because I may have done it…
Daily wear for work
The rubber strap with clasp is EXTREMELY comfortable. I fell in love with the strap and will likely buy one for my Explorer II soon. The brand new white hands just pop against the black dial and the stainless steel looks great with the black strap.
This watch will match damn near anything you wear. Wear it all the time, but don’t get it wet. It’s not rated to go into water. (my only gripe)
Would I Recommend This
Yes. I would. It’s a piece of history and will set you apart from other watch collectors. While many collectors have the “moon watch,” you’ll be able to show them that you are sophisticated in your taste and picked something that few others have. Buy it here and mention Ian to get a few dollars off. 😉
📖 About The Watch
The “Other” Speedmaster, But Just As Cool
The Omega Speedmaster Mark II often flies under the radar compared to its legendary predecessor, the Moonwatch. However, it holds its own as a notable piece of horological history. Launched in 1969, the Mark II was designed for those who loved the Speedmaster’s style but wanted a modernized look. Its streamlined case, with a barrel-shaped design, was an instant break from the traditional lyre lugs of the original Speedmaster.
One of the standout features of the Mark II is its enhanced readability, thanks to a tachymeter scale placed under the crystal. This innovation allowed the tachymeter to remain visible under various lighting conditions, something the Speedmaster Professional didn’t offer. The chronograph subdials are also cleaner and easier to read, making the Mark II a more user-friendly tool watch for both enthusiasts and professionals.
More Specs
click to buy
While it may look similar to original, the Mark II's design caters to a different audience—those looking for a more contemporary feel. The watch embodies the transition between the 1960s space race era and the sleek design ethos of the 1970s. With its vintage charm and slightly futuristic appeal, the Mark II is the "other" Speedmaster for collectors seeking something beyond the iconic Moonwatch.
In short, the Speedmaster Mark II offers a distinctive take on an Omega classic, balancing tradition with innovation.
SPONSORED BY INMO
Not An Influencer? Get Paid Like One!
Not an influencer? Get paid like one with INMO! Start owning your content and get paid. Enter daily challenges by posting an original video, sourced video or voting for your favorite. And yes, it really works. Start your side hustle today!
(click to check them out)
🔥 Hot Takes
My Collection Philosophy
When it comes to my watch collection, practicality is key. I’m not someone who buys a watch just for show—each piece in my collection has a purpose. Whether it’s a robust diver for outdoor adventures or a field watch for day-to-day wear, my watches are meant to be worn, to live life alongside me.
I’ve always believed that variety is the spice of a great collection. Sure, I appreciate the big names in the watch world, but sticking to one brand feels limiting. A true collector should explore both mainstream and independent brands, each offering its own unique flair. For me, it’s about curating a range that spans luxury and affordability, mixing iconic designs with hidden gems.
Price isn’t everything. A good watch doesn’t have to break the bank, but it does need to stand the test of time—literally. My watches should handle whatever life throws at them, from a hike in the mountains to the inevitable bumps of everyday wear. I want timepieces that can roll with me through life's adventures.
Style is personal. A watch is a reflection of who you are, a way to share your personality without shouting it from the rooftops. And beyond the style, my watches are tied to personal memories. These timepieces hold stories of the places I’ve been and the people I’ve shared those moments with, and one day, I’ll pass those memories—and the watches—down to my kids. In that way, my collection lives on beyond me.
⌚ This Watch Is For
🥶 Chill Alert. This section is for people with a sense of humor.
Reader discretion is advised. Take a chill pill and read on. If you dare…
Meet Chadwick
The Omega Speedmaster Mark II is for the guy who wants to own a piece of space history but doesn't feel the need to scream "I’m wearing the Moonwatch!" every time he checks the time.
It’s for the person who appreciates the finer things in life—like precision chronographs and barrel-shaped cases—but doesn’t want to be that guy who corners you at parties with “fun facts” about the 1969 moon landing. You like luxury, but you're not trying to mortgage your house for it.
The Mark II says, “I know watches, but I also know how to enjoy a weekend without obsessively polishing my wrist.” It’s the understated watch nerd’s dream.
⌚ Similar Watches
Maybe this watch isn’t for you. That’s okay! Take a look at three similar watches from The Laughter Collection.
Hamilton
Heritage
click to buy
$2,000
Gallet
“Jim Clark”
click to buy
$5,900
Omega Seamaster Chronostop
click to buy
$1,800
👋 Outta Time
Thanks for stopping by!
This was so fun to write. Thanks again to Seth for letting me try out the Speedmaster. Did you know that if you hit “reply” to this email, that it comes directly to me? Give it a try!
Random Fact About Ian: I’m a huge All Time Low fan and when they re-released some of their songs a few months ago, I about lost it. See song below.
How likely are you going to buy a watch in the next 3 months?
Not Watches
Last Week’s Stats 📈
Title: The Title Goes Here (link)
Sent To: x,xxx subscribers
Open Rate: xx% (how many opened the email)
Click Rate: xx.x% (how many of you clicked a link)
(Own the Watch is written and published with beehiiv. Start your newsletter today.)
Win Free Stuff 🎁
You can get free stuff for referring people to Own The Watch 👇
{{RP_PERSONALIZED_TEXT}}
25 referrals - a $50 gift card 💳
10 referrals - my book, signed 📖
1 referral - newsletter shoutout 🔊
1 Case height is the thickness of the watch.
2 Lug to lug measurement of a watch is the measurement in millimeters from the top-most extremity of the case lugs to the bottom (more info)
3 Strap width (also known as lug width) is the distance between the two lugs of the watch. The lugs are the part of the watch case in which the strap attaches. If you want to change straps, this number is important.
4 Crystal is the clear material through which you look into the watch. Think of it as the “glass” but it’s not always literally glass. (more info)
5 Movement is the mechanism that activates the watch hands and other complications. Automatic movements are powered by your movement, mechanical need you to wind it and quartz movements are battery operated. Each of these have specific “calibers” that work in different ways. Think of the caliber as the engine. Different cars have different engines.
6 Power reserve is the length of time a watch will stay powered/keep time without it being worn or wound. This time depends on the specific caliber of the movement. Many are 42 hours while others can last up to 80 hours.