zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: I have some follow-up questions from a previous
: posting/thread.
: Comparing speedy Pro vs Planet Ocean vs
: Railmaster
: With the SpeedyPro, I was thinking of the
: sapphire crystal version. One of my issues
: with that is the price is $800 higher than
: the simple hesalite version, and $500 higher
: than the Planet Ocean. Given that within any
: manufacturer's product range, whether
: watches or otherwise, you generally get what
: you pay for, why is there such a premium for
: the SpeedyPro with sapphire? Also, how well
: does the hesalite stand up to routine wear
: (simply at the office, etc)?

I was informed by a member on this forum that the hesalite crystal version is no longer available (no longer listed on Omega's website). I never had a price list that included that model, but it would be nothing short of insane to pay $800 for a sapphire crystal.

That being said, I do not like the hesalite crystal, as I think it's cheap for a watch costing $2895. I understand why it was selected by NASA (because it did not shatter like a sapphire crystal can when exposed to extreme pressure). However, I don't think anyone can argue that a sapphire crystal is much more practical since it's virtually scratch-proof. I don't own a Speedy but I do own other watches with acrylic crystals similar to the hesalite one on the Speedy. These watches scratch VERY easily and need to be buffed regularly to look as new as a sapphire crystal.

: If I go the Planet Ocean or Railmaster route, I
: will get the bracelet, and then as I have
: learned on this forum, add an aftermarket
: leather band and clasp.
: Any thoughts
: Thanks for the opinions.

All three watches contain excellent movements, but with the Speedy you get a chronograph function that is lacking in the other two. The Speedy is manual wind, though. For me personally, the scratch-prone hesalite crystal and manual wind function make it less practical as a daily wearer. The PO and Railmaster have sapphire crystals and have the automatic co-axial movement, so these are top choices for daily wear watches. Just my two cents....