History of the Omega Speedmaster Racing 326.32.40.50.04.001

The Omega Speedmaster Racing collection represents a modern, motorsport-inspired evolution of the legendary Speedmaster line. While the Speedmaster is best known for its association with NASA and lunar exploration, Omega has long emphasized the model’s original purpose as a precision chronograph for timing speed and performance on Earth. The Racing series brings that intent back to the forefront.

Introduced in the early 2010s, the Speedmaster Racing 326.32.40.50.04.001 was designed as a sport-focused, everyday chronograph, distinct from the manual-wind Moonwatch Professional. Rather than emphasizing historical space credentials, this reference highlights legibility, modern mechanics, and automotive design cues.

The 40 mm stainless-steel case reflects Omega’s move toward more wearable proportions, appealing to collectors seeking a versatile chronograph that could transition easily from casual to active use. The black tachymeter bezel reinforces the watch’s racing roots, allowing drivers to calculate speed over a measured distance — a defining feature of the Speedmaster lineage.

One of the most recognizable elements of this reference is its white dial with contrasting black subdials and bold yellow accents. This high-contrast layout draws inspiration from racing dashboards and timing instruments, prioritizing clarity at a glance. The textured subdials, applied hour markers, and date display at 6 o’clock further modernize the design while maintaining Speedmaster DNA.

Powering the watch is the Omega Caliber 3330, an automatic chronograph movement that marked an important step in Omega’s technical development. The movement features a column-wheel chronograph architecture, Omega’s Co-Axial escapement, and a silicon balance spring, enhancing long-term accuracy, durability, and resistance to magnetism. Unlike the manually wound Moonwatch, this reference was intended for convenience and daily reliability.

The 326.32.40.50.04.001 was not produced as a limited edition, but it has since been discontinued, making it increasingly found on the secondary market. Collectors value it for its combination of modern movement technology, distinctive racing aesthetics, and practical sizing.

Key Features – Omega Speedmaster Racing 326.32.40.50.04.001

• 40 mm stainless steel case with polished and brushed finishes

• Fixed black tachymeter bezel for measuring speed over distance

• White dial with contrasting black subdials for high legibility

• Yellow chronograph hands and accent details inspired by motorsport instrumentation

• Textured subdials with date display integrated at 6 o’clock

• Automatic Omega Caliber 3330 chronograph movement

• Column-wheel chronograph mechanism for smooth operation

• Co-Axial escapement for improved long-term accuracy and reduced friction

• Silicon balance spring for enhanced magnetic resistance

• Approximately 52-hour power reserve

• Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment

• Black rubber strap with stainless steel deployant clasp