Ahead of Baselworld 2016, Omega has previewed their new Speedmaster Moonphase Chronograph Master Chronometer, which is distinguished by a sun-brushed blue dial with moonphase indication, and powered by a new METAS-certified manufacture movement.

Omega Master Co-axial Chronometer caliber 9904 beats at 4Hz (28,800 vph) and is made up of over 368 components. Technically speaking, two barrels, mounted in series, offer a 60-hour maximum power reserve. The automatic winding is done in both directions, which results in faster replenishment of the power reserve. The movement is METAS-certified, and so as per the prerequisites, it is resistant to magnetic interference to 15,000 Gauss.

Additional specifications include a column wheel actuated chronograph, Silicon “Si14” balance spring, Omega free sprung-balance, Co-Axial Escapement, NIVACHOC, rhodium-plated rotor and bridges, Geneva waves in arabesque, and blackened screws, blackened barrels, and blackened balance wheel.

Functions include a moonphase indication at 6 o’clock, central hour hand, central minute hand, small-seconds, the date by hand at 9 o’clock, central chronograph second hand, 60-minute and 12-hour counter in a single subdial at 3 o’clock.

A lunar month is 29.5, not 30 days, and importantly, Omega’s moonphase accurately accounts for this, only needing an adjustment every 10 years.

The case is crafted stainless steel, measuring 44.25 mm x 16.85 mm, with modern curved lugs, polished and brushed surfaces, and a stainless steel bezel with polished blue ceramic ring insert and brushed Liquidmetal® tachymeter scale. The crown and pushers are polished, with the Omega logo embossed on the crown.

A box-form scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial and has anti-reflective treatment on both sides. The stainless steel caseback is screwed-down, and inset with a bevelled sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on the inside. Water-resistance is 100 meters.

The dial distinguishes this Speedmaster with a unique bright blue sun-brushed finish, accented by polished rhodium-plated indexes. “Speedmaster” and date n°”1” are printed in red. White lume with green emission enhances readability at night. The subdials are enhanced by rhodium-plated circles. Hands are diamond-polished and rhodium-plated, with red-tipped central chrono seconds and date hands.

The moonphase indication is made up of a disc that is crafted in a metalized mineral crystal designed to obtain a high detailed moon that reveals an astronaut’s footprint.

Completing the blue theme, is a color matched alligator leather strap with stainless steel folding buckle, measuring 21 mm between lugs and 18mm at the clasp. A 4-year-warranty is standard, along with a Master Chronometer (METAS) certification card.