Does the world really need another wristwatch? Omega and Swatch certainly think so! The Omega X Swatch MoonSwatch has caused quite a stir over the past two years, polarising opinions, but the hype refuses to die down. Is it justified? We tested the € 275 MoonSwatch Mercury and found ourselves both thrilled and disappointed. So, is it hot or not? Find out here!
The MoonSwatch aims to combine the best of both worlds: Swatch, the iconic brand that revolutionised the watch industry in the 1980s, and Omega, the epitome of luxury and precision. This collaboration is a real hit. Why? Firstly, because Swatch is back in vogue with some exciting partnerships. Secondly, because the MoonSwatch promises an Omega Speedmaster for everyday use, at a fraction of the price: € 275 instead of € 7,200 for the original Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional. The rush for the MoonSwatch, available only in Swatch boutiques, was correspondingly huge.
Can the MoonSwatch keep up with the Moonwatch? What are the differences, and what might cause disappointment? To find out, we put the MoonSwatch to the test, taking it to Paris for a fashion shoot, meeting a real Speedmaster for lunch, and subjecting it to the wear and tear of daily life. Unfortunately, the testing period didn’t allow for a trip to the moon – but (spoiler alert) everyday life was already challenging enough for the MoonSwatch!
What can the Omega MoonSwatch do?
Taste is subjective, but the design of the MoonSwatch is simply stylish. It combines the timeless elegance of a Speedmaster with a trendy twist – the colours are inspired by the celestial bodies of our solar system. While it might be out of sight, the back of the watch is also impressive – alongside a small picture of the moon, there’s some philosophical motivation: “Dream big, fly higher, explore the universe, reach for the planets, enjoy the mission.” We like it! Oh, and with the MoonSwatch, you don’t have to hide from an original Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch. You couldn’t if you wanted to – she’s an eye-catcher.
However, the weight of the MoonSwatch divides opinions. While the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional weighs 150g with its steel bracelet (or 85g with a leather strap), the MoonSwatch is a feather-light 29g. The primary difference is the material: the MoonSwatch is made of a type of plastic which Swatch call “bioceramic”, which contains around one third bio-based material – castor oil. Compared to its steel predecessor, the MoonSwatch feels extremely light. Those who prefer some heft on their wrist will be disappointed.
While the weight is a matter of preference, the glass is a clear weakness of the MoonSwatch: it is made of the same plastic and it scratches very easily. After just a few weeks, our test model looked pretty battered in the light – not cool! The stopwatch function isn’t great either: it works unreliably and sometimes sticks, which should not happen with a watch at this price point. € 275 is not € 7,200, but you would still expect all of the features to work correctly.
Straps of the MoonSwatch
Out of the box, the MoonSwatch is supplied with a plastic band with a Velcro fastener. It’s quite stiff, and doesn’t conform well to the wrist. While it creates a look that stands out from classic wristwatches – typical Swatch – it’s not particularly comfortable. Many buyers, therefore, opt for alternative straps, mostly the popular NATO straps.
Do you need the Omega X Swatch MoonSwatch?
No. Although at € 275 you’ll worry much less about theft compared to a € 10,000 Rolex or Omega, you’ll still need to take more care of it: in terms of quality and especially durability, the Omega X Swatch MoonSwatch is light-years away from the original Moonwatch. The scratch-prone glass and the unreliable stopwatch function are particularly disappointing, reducing everyday usability – a € 30 Casio performs better in terms of durability and functionality. Moreover, the sustainability claim around the bioceramic material is also questionable, as the bio content is only around 30%!
Would we buy the Omega X Swatch MoonSwatch?
Yes, because it’s really fun to wear. It goes with many outfits, you’re neither overdressed nor underdressed, and it looks super cool. For us, it completes the look without being too flashy. Additionally, it’s a stylish watch that attracts more attention than a classic Omega. If you can live with its low durability and accept that the glass will scratch quickly, you’ll enjoy the Swatch. It’s not made to last forever, but then again, trends aren’t meant to last forever either.
Tops
- Speedmaster design
- Wide range of colours
Flops
- Very easily scratched glass
- Unreliable stopwatch function
- Strap quality leaves a lot to be desired
For more information, visit swatch.com
Words: Robin Schmitt, Robin Ulbrich Photos: Mike Hunger
