The Omega Speedmaster Automatic “MK40” is one of those watches that collectors seem to appreciate more with each passing year. It’s an underdog with undeniable personality, and that’s exactly why collectors love it.
The MK40 is all about fun. The dial and hands bring together a mix of primary colors (red, yellow, and blue) that somehow still feel balanced and purposeful. The yellow airplane-tipped hand marks the date around the outer track, while the red chronograph hands highlight timing functions and add energy to the dial. A blue and black 24-hour subdial at 9 o’clock separates day from night, bringing both function and visual balance. Together, the mix of primary colors isn’t just eye-catching, but also helps organize information at a glance, making the dial playful, legible, and unmistakably unique within the Speedmaster lineup.
Unlike most ETA-based speedmaster reduced watches, this one is powered by the Omega Caliber 1151, an automatic chronograph movement based on the Valjoux 7751, it brings a full calendar, 24-hour indicator, and moonphase complication- a surprisingly complete package for a ’90s Speedmaster.
Ben Clymer of Hodinkee once called this reference his “first real watch,” a piece that helped kick off his lifelong obsession with mechanical watches thanks to his grandfather. That story only adds to its charm, showing how this colorful, slightly eccentric Speedmaster resonated far beyond spec sheets. It was also eventually referenced in the 10th Anniversary Limited Edition Hodinkee Omega Speedmaster.
Condition Report:
Very good overall condition. Watch recently received a full overhaul and is running at a 5-position average of +7.4 S/D, 0.3MS BE, 288. The case shows moderate scratches and small dents throughout, with a larger dent at 9 o'clock. The crystal has medium scratches throughout the AR coating. The dial and hands are in mint condition with zero signs of damage or wear. The tritium lume on hands and dial evenly matches with a warm yellow patina. Bezel has light scratches and dings, but the insert is in great condition with minimal signs of age. Watch comes on a generic replacement black shark skin strap with a stainless steel Omega signed pin buckle. All functions including calendar, chronograph and pushers work as intended. Stamped 175.0084 / 375.0084 on inside caseback.
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