Introduction
Famed as the watch that was first worn on the moon during the Apollo moon landings, the Omega Speedmaster has long been known as one of watchmaking's most iconic timepieces. However, while its claim to fame is legendary, it was not originally conceived as a watch for space. Instead, it was a watch designed for race car drivers, hence its name. Launched in 2004 as a Japan-only edition of 2004 pieces, the ref. 3570.40 that we have here is a racing dial variant of the Speedmaster that swaps the Moonwatch's typically refined monochromatic dial for a dial with a little more personality. Based on the 1968 racing dial Speedmaster, the ref. 3570.40 features a manual-winding movement, orange chronograph hands, and a red dial periphery with red five-minute markers that embody the colorful spirit of the 1960s that improve legibility. Linked to the Speedmaster's lesser-known heritage, the ref. 3570.40 is a wonderfully unique watch that will certainly be a fantastic addition to a Speedy fan's collection.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$6,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Omega
Dimensions
42mm
Model
Speedmaster Racing "Japan Edition"
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 1861
Reference
3570.40.00
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa 2004
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a typical Speedmaster black dial the ref. 3570.40 features a rather unique red ring along its periphery with orange markers punctuating every five-minute mark and bright orange chronograph hands for optimum legibility.
THE CONSTRUCTION
An iconic timepiece that needs no introduction, the Speedmaster's 42mm case is as it always has been with its famed lyre lugs, robust design and signature black dial and bezel combo.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows light surface scratches and tiny nicks, with additional marks visible on the backs of the lugs from strap changes, while the case back displays scratches with all enamel intact in the engraving. The dial and hands remain near mint. The crystal shows surface scratches and scuffs. It is fitted with a steel bracelet showing light surface marks and negligible play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 15 links, 5 of which are removable, and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist. Additionally, there are 2 links included. Please note that there is much established scholarship about these 3570.4 racing dials, and it is known that the dials were available for purchase from service centers as spare parts. The Omega archives are currently closed, so we are unable to ascertain wether this specific watch was born with this dial, but the serial number range 7713XXXX indicates 2004 date of manufacture and is right in the middle of the known and accepted serial number range for these watches.
Our Perspective
A wonderfully unusual watch that was only released in Japan, this is a wonderful opportunity to grab a highly desirable and rare variant of the Speedmaster that plays on the timepiece's original design inspiration and use case, car racing.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
