My first time shopping on Chrono24 was met with great suspense. It was the purchase of my first luxury timepiece after all, a gift that would mark the milestone of my 30th birthday. I carefully read through every listing within the specified parameters, sorted by price ‘high to low’ and filtered on watches below the allowed spend.
I tediously inspected each and every photo, sometimes requesting for additional shots from the obliging sellers. Throughout my search, brand wasn’t a factor. I was happy to go with Seiko, Sinn or even Squale. But nothing felt right for the occasion. It wasn’t until I discovered the Omega Speedmaster Reduced (ref 3510.50.00) that my heart was set. With only a few in my price range, I was nervous. Locating a 1995 model in what looked to be pristine condition, I began to engage with the seller and within 24 hours, the transaction was complete. Chrono’s escrow services kept the funds safe until the watch arrived and after days of refreshing the online tracking page, I received confirmation from my wife that the package had been safely delivered.
Carefully unwrapping the box, my expectations were greatly exceeded. The domed hesalite distorted beautifully at every angle. The 39mm case size was just perfect for my small wrists. The chronograph function worked well, although the pushers were a little sticky, but this was something I quickly overlooked and paled in comparison to the beauty of the piece. For three months it was the only watch on my wrist. I’d closely study it for minutes at a time, never once observing the actual time.
Still to this day, the watch remains as my prized grail and a piece that will never be sold. The price for this watch in the used market has since increased by about $900 AUD, however even at that price, it would still be considered one of the best entry level luxury time pieces for ~ $2,500 AUD. That or a 70s Rolex Oyster-Date.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Omega
Model: Speedmaster Reduced
Reference: 3510.50.00
Case size (not including crown): 39mm
Lug to lug: 44mm
Lug width: 18mm
Caliber: 3220 (base ETA 2890-A2), 40 hour power reserve, self-winding, hackable
Crystal: Hesalite
Strap / Bracelet: 18mm stainless steel bracelet, with both brushed and high polish finishing, solid end links and a branded push down clasp
Melbourne Watch Republic 