Earlier this year, Omega introduced to us to a number of their latest creations, some of which really impressed us and other watch enthusiasts alike. The Speedmaster range saw a multitude of new additions, along with some tasteful updates that were applied to the PloProf lineup. Nevertheless, the one that seemed to stick with me the most was the Globemaster. After having a few months to reflect on what I knew of the watch, I was given the opportunity to test out the watch myself, which got me rightfully excited. Now, without further delay, let’s take a closer look at the all new Omega Globemaster; a watch that challenges many concepts of traditional horology, while still paying tribute to the brand’s storied past.
When first seeing a Globemaster, it’s easy to spot its connection to the Constellation family, in that its design features carefully cherry-picked details from various Constellation references. Firstly, you’ve got the iconic, ’60s style “Pie-Pan” dial, which has a distinct depth and range of appearances to it, depending on the lighting conditions. This greatly intrigued me, as it cannot normally be said of a silver dial that doesn’t have a sunburst finish. Next, Omega added in a dash of ’70s styling, with the use of a densely fluted, tungsten carbide bezel. Again, the finishing on this component was done wonderfully, as indicated by how the contrasting brushed and polished points of the bezel have a subtle shimmering effect.
Coming in perfectly at a conservative 39mm wide, and just 12.5mm thick, the Globemaster wears quite nicely on the wrist. I personally feel that 39mm is where more modern watches need to be, though that could be a result of my affinity for vintage pieces. Furthermore, the structured nature of the strap’s end helps the watch’s ability to hug the wrist. The one question that I’ve constantly come back to when glancing down at the Globemaster is: what exactly is it? Its design isn’t ornate or sleek enough to be considered a dress watch, though at the same time, it’s clearly not a sports piece. I think the best way to sum it up, is that it’s a highly versatile, everyday type of piece, which leads me to believe that it could make up a terrific one-watch collection for an individual.
Although the aesthetics of this piece are nothing short of beautiful, the main event here is what’s inside: Omega’s Caliber 8900. Due to Omega’s newly created “METAS” certification (which will also allow other brands to attempt certification), this Master Chronometer movement packs a serious punch when it comes to accuracy. Essentially, Omega has subjected their watches (not just the movements) to a number of extra testing procedures to ensure accuracy, including a six position test at multiple temperatures, and anti-magnetic testing among others. They’ve also manufactured the movement using an anti-magnetic silicon hairspring, along with a host of other anti-magnetic parts to guarantee its timekeeping abilities up to 15,000 Gauss. Knowing that all of these variables and unforgiving technical details were taken into account during this movement’s development really elevates the on-the-wrist experience of owning the Globemaster. Additionally, the movement is executed as tremendously as the brand’s other offerings, making use of the same bold red text and curved Geneva stripes which we see on the Calibers 9300 and 8500.
All in all, my experience with wearing the Globemaster for the past few weeks has truly been enjoyable. Its horological sophistication is clearly matched by equally impactful visuals, which leads me to believe the piece is justifiably priced at $7,700 in stainless steel. Moreover, I like to think the Globemaster will make a highly competitive alternative to many watches in its price range once it hits the market, largely due to its arguably best-in-class testing standards. And while we love some of the new Speedmasters and Seamasters, the Globmaster was a much bolder release by Omega, and they hit it out of the park.
A big “thanks” goes out to @pbandwatches for providing the photography.
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canadry
While it’s a definite improvement from their bulkier stuff, it’d still be tough to justify $7700 on a strap for this one — especially over a Datejust or Milgauss.
Ian
Seems to me those Rolexes are exactly what Omega’s aiming at here, and, from my point of view, this watch at least matches those. My trouble is I never really thought the Datejust or Milgauss were interesting enough to be worth my money, and I’m feeling the same way about the Globemaster.
Shane Griffin
I know what you’re saying. As Isaac mentioned, it could be a great “one watch” for a lot of folks. It might just be difficult to fit it into a three or five watch collection because of where it overlaps. I actually like it more than both the Datejust and the Milgauss — it really pops in person.
Will
Important to note that this movement (and others that are Master Co-axial and Master Chronometer rated) are antimagnetic to GREATER than 15,000 gauss, not “up to” as stated in the article.
Independently, wearers of the Aqua Terra model that first featured the technology have had the watches in fields rated at 3 tesla (30,000 gauss) and had no ill effects. Omega/Swatch Group just don’t have facilities to test past 15,000 gauss, hence the name.
Shane Griffin
You are absolutely correct. I don’t believe Isaac meant “up to” quite so literally, as we’ve mentioned on the site at least once before that it’s Omega’s testing limit. Thanks for reading!
Trevor M
What does “Master Chronometer” even mean? Does it mean the same thing as “Superlative Chronometer” like the brand with the Burger King crown uses? And by that I mean meaningless branding hype on a dial.
Will
Master Chronometer is the certification that Omega and the Swiss government came up with together, METAS.
It basically means that instead of just having the movement itself tested by COSC, it’s also tested while cased in the watch for accuracy in eight categories (i.e. magnetism of 15,000 gauss, water resistance, temperature variation, etc). Other brands can also submit their watches for the testing, though obviously no brand would currently pass other than Omega.
Chris
I’ve still yet to see one of these in the metal, but as an Omega fan who has been looking for months at images of this and trying to like it, I just can’t bring myself around.
The lugs are thick and graceless. The fine fluting of the bezel contrasts with those thick lugs quite starkly, making the bezel look as out of place as it is. The modern Rolex fluted bezel works because the flutes are deep enough to allow their polished inner surfaces to catch and reflect light. It’s adds a bit of sparkle and bling.
The pie pan dial and the Globemaster script are both classic touches suggestive of more elegant models from the 50s and 60s. But they’re stuck in Malaise-era case. It’s just a collection of references to other watches and not a really cohesive design.
Ultimately, I wonder how this is going to work for someone looking for that one “nice watch”. The pricepoint is a bit high for a watch that isn’t a standout beauty.