Specifications

Reference: 310.30.42.50.01.002

Case Diameter: 42mm | Case Material: Stainless steel | Bezel: Fixed black tachymeter bezel

Dial: Black lacquer with black subdials and applied markers

Crystal: Domed sapphire with anti-reflective treatment | Caseback: Exhibition sapphire

Movement: Manual-winding Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861 | Power Reserve: ~50 hours

Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph (30-minute and 12-hour), tachymeter

Bracelet: Stainless steel with folding clasp | Water Resistance: 5 bar (50 m)

Model Specifics:

Complete set with box, booklets, tag, and warranty card dated September 25, 2023

Historical Context (The Speedmaster Legacy)

The Speedmaster was first introduced in 1957 as a racing chronograph. In the 1960s, it was selected by NASA for space missions after rigorous testing. It became globally famous when it was worn during the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969, earning the name “Moonwatch.”

The core design of the watch—tachymeter bezel, chronograph layout, and asymmetrical case—has remained largely unchanged since the fourth-generation Speedmaster references worn during the Apollo missions.

Introduction of Ref. 310.30.42.50.01.002 (2021)

This reference was introduced in 2021 as part of a major update to the Moonwatch line. It replaced the previous sapphire model and marked one of the most significant technical upgrades to the Speedmaster in decades.

Key updates included:

• Introduction of the Calibre 3861 movement

• Master Chronometer certification

• Significant anti-magnetic resistance

• Slight refinements to case proportions

• A bracelet redesign with improved taper and comfort

• A return to design elements inspired by earlier Moonwatch references

The Calibre 3861 Movement

The transition from the long-running Calibre 1861 to the Calibre 3861 represents the most important advancement in this reference.

The 3861 retains a manual-wind architecture, preserving the traditional feel of the Moonwatch, but incorporates modern technology such as the Co-Axial escapement. It is certified as a Master Chronometer, meaning it meets strict standards for accuracy and resistance to magnetic fields. The movement also offers an approximate 50-hour power reserve.

This combination of traditional construction and modern performance defines the current generation of Speedmasters.

“Sapphire Sandwich” Configuration

This specific reference is known as the sapphire version of the Moonwatch. It features a sapphire crystal on the front and an exhibition sapphire caseback, allowing the movement to be visible.

This distinguishes it from the Hesalite version, which uses an acrylic crystal and a closed caseback, more closely resembling the watches issued to NASA astronauts.

Design Continuity

Despite the technical updates, the overall design remains very faithful to historical models. The watch features a 42mm asymmetrical case, black step dial, applied logo, and the classic tachymeter bezel with “dot over 90” detailing.

These elements maintain a direct visual link to the watches worn during the Apollo era.

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