Immediately after its release, the Moonswatch attracted the attention of many people, not just watch enthusiasts. This collection is sure to have given those who have held it a new realization, so we decided to try out the "MISSION TO URANUS" and explore its true essence.
Text & Photographs by Tsubasa Nojima
Article published on December 27, 2022
A look back at the biggest hits of 2022
In 2022, several news stories made waves in the watch world, but perhaps the most memorable was the introduction of the Moonswatch.
The Moon Swatch has captivated not only watch enthusiasts but also fashion-conscious people. On its release date of March 26th, a large number of people hoping to buy it flooded stores, causing confusion and forcing the watch to be discontinued, a rare occurrence in recent years.
More than six months have passed since then, and although some Swatch stores are selling them in stores, they are still in short supply and are still difficult to obtain. Alternatively, if you can find a Fiat on the "Moon Swatch Tour" that runs around the world, you have a chance to buy one, but it is still not easy to come across one.
What exactly is it about the MoonSwatch that has people so excited? And what thoughts did the Swatch Group have in mind when it came to this collection? Let's take a look at the actual watch and find out.
A casual watch incorporating the design codes of the Omega Speedmaster
Before we move on to the review, let me briefly explain the MoonSwatch collection: it's a collaboration between Swatch and Omega, both part of the Swatch Group.
The Swatch Group divides its brands into four ranges: Prestige & Luxury, High, Mid, and Basic. Omega belongs to the Prestige & Luxury range, and Swatch belongs to the Basic range.
As can be seen from this segment, the two brands have different product characteristics and target demographics. At first glance, this collaboration, which appears to be a catalyst for Swatch, was a wise decision on the part of the group.
Simply put, the Moon Swatch is a Swatch in the shape of Omega's signature Speedmaster. The Speedmaster is a legendary watch that has been approved as official equipment for NASA's six lunar landing projects, from the first manned moon landing in 1969 to the present.
Swatch, on the other hand, is a casual watch brand that offers a colorful collection of watches, primarily made of resin cases. While it has been fading into obscurity with the resurgence of mechanical watches, it was actually a trump card that helped revive the Swiss watch industry, which had been driven into a corner by the quartz revolution.
The name Moonswatch comes from combining the Speedmaster's nickname "Moonwatch" with "Swatch."
The exterior, which perfectly captures the Speedmaster's distinctive features, is made from Swatch's proprietary bioceramic material. This is a combination of ceramic and a bio-sourced material derived from castor oil. It is available in a variety of colors, and the Moon Swatch comes in 11 planet-themed variations.
Among these models are those incorporating the characteristics of collector's items such as the Speedmaster "Alaska Project" and the so-called "Ultraman" model, making this a lineup that even Omega fans cannot ignore. The movement is quartz, but considering the price tag of around 3 yen, many people will find it attractive.
Airy blue and white Speedmaster "MISSION TO URANUS"
The model we will be reviewing this time is the "MISSION TO URANUS," which is based on the planet Uranus and is one of the 11 models available. Its pastel coloring of airy blue and white gives it a pop impression, completely different from the serious look of the original Speedmaster.
Uranus, the seventh planet in the solar system, is known for being relatively large and massive among the planets in the solar system, and its vibrant blue color comes from the methane that coats its upper atmosphere.
Even without looking closely, it's clear that the exterior incorporates many of the Speedmaster's characteristics. The case size is almost the same at 42mm in diameter and 13.25mm thick. The case shape is a lyre-type, with the crown and pushers protected by being thicker at 3 o'clock. The twisted lugs that flow inward from the tip are still intact.
The tapered bezel has a tachymeter scale printed on it. It's a nice touch that it has the same "dots over 90" as the original Moonwatch, the fourth-generation Speedmaster. The thick crystal is made of acrylic.
The MoonSwatch design is evident everywhere. First of all, there's the texture that's unique to the bioceramic case. It has the high density of ceramic, yet its soft texture feels comfortable to the touch. The surface is slightly rough, but there are no burrs, and the edges are sharp.
The dial has a unique layout due to the movement it is equipped with: a subdial for measuring 1/10 seconds at 2 o'clock, a small second at 6 o'clock, and a 60-minute counter at 10 o'clock.
The Omega and Swatch logos are printed at the 12 o'clock position, and the Speedmaster and MoonSwatch logos are printed on the left and right, respectively, filling the gaps between the subdials.
This logo is incorporated as "Ω×S" not only on the dedicated Velcro strap but also on the crown.
Swatch watches have a battery cover on the case back, which allows for easy battery replacement, but the Moon Swatch incorporates a planet design into this battery cover. This is a part that you don't normally see, but it gives off the playful spirit that is so characteristic of Swatch.
The case back is engraved with the words "DREAM BIG FLY HIGHER EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE REACH FOR THE PLANETS ENJOY THE MISSION."
