Which speedy???

[Turbo Racer]

Hey guys, love seeing these beautiful watches posted up week in and week out. Have had my eye on one for years but I’ve never pulled the trigger. Mainly because I am confused on which one to get. I strive to get the best one I can afford and the one that I like the most. I don’t go too much for what resale is going to do.

So when I look at these things, I get confused. 1861 versus 3861. Hesolite versus sapphire. Would you like that in a sandwich? 321? Or is it Ed white? They came out with these lovely snoopy ones that are blue and white and are extraordinarily expensive — yeah when I told my wife its a hot item she tells me it looks like a child’s watch. Needless to say I took offense to that LOL. But then the other limited edition with a man and a space suit actually landing on the moon — it’s such a beautiful watch and that could be had for 12 or $13,000. And the box is cooler. There are so many special and limited editions I’m kind of getting lost.

I just don’t know what to get. I know I like the watch and I tried on a brand new one at the dealer last week when I bought my Zenith chronosport with a white face, which I love very much. However, I ultimately walked away from that because I did not want to find myself at home with an omega speedmaster and then some guy on this forum or another forum breaks out a picture of their watch and I go , I wish I bought that instead. So, I thought I’d reach out to the collective knowledge here because you guys know way more about watches than me and ask the experts what their opinions are. Ultimately, I’m going to buy what I like and yet I would love to hear your guys opinions for those of you who have had a few of these watches.


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[DoricSpiker]

3861 is just the updated version of the 1861. It has a master chronometer movement which means it is very accurate, the watch will not run fast. It is also more resistant to magnetic fields. The watch also has an updated bracelet which to me, looks better than the old one.
Sapphire is what you will have on your zenith but the watches of yesterday used hesalite glass so purists tend to go for that albeit Sapphire is more practical. Less scratches and won’t break however hesalite glass does tend to give you a better view of the dial.
Forget the 321 as they are almost impossible to get. Ed White is the nickname that was given to the watch in the 60’s with that style case, dial and pushers. The 321 is a remake of that.
So, in your position I would go 3861 probably with sapphire Crystal. It’s a beauty of a watch, one of the best for that money. It has stood the test of time as well, if not better, than any Rolex.
Enjoy it when it comes.


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[DJ2020]

+1 "Metas sandwich " is definitely the one I'm after. I want the latest and greatest ( so to speak)

[Texans93]

Just picked up the 3861 Hesalite, and ZERO regrets. Other differences between the sapphire and hesalite in the 3861; a see through case back, polished center links, and an applied Omega logo on the sapphire version.
The sapphire version retails at $850 more than it's hesalite brother.
Lots to consider but you can't go wrong with either one.
Mine has been spot on since I got it.

[alpharulez]

Originally Posted by DoricSpiker

3861 is just the updated version of the 1861. It has a master chronometer movement which means it is very accurate, the watch will not run fast. It is also more resistant to magnetic fields. The watch also has an updated bracelet which to me, looks better than the old one.
Sapphire is what you will have on your zenith but the watches of yesterday used hesalite glass so purists tend to go for that albeit Sapphire is more practical. Less scratches and won’t break however hesalite glass does tend to give you a better view of the dial.
Forget the 321 as they are almost impossible to get. Ed White is the nickname that was given to the watch in the 60’s with that style case, dial and pushers. The 321 is a remake of that.
So, in your position I would go 3861 probably with sapphire Crystal. It’s a beauty of a watch, one of the best for that money. It has stood the test of time as well, if not better, than any Rolex.
Enjoy it when it comes.


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I second this

3861 sapphire gives you a lovely view of the movement too.


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[gnuyork]

Originally Posted by DoricSpiker

3861 is just the updated version of the 1861. It has a master chronometer movement which means it is very accurate, the watch will not run fast. It is also more resistant to magnetic fields. The watch also has an updated bracelet which to me, looks better than the old one.
Sapphire is what you will have on your zenith but the watches of yesterday used hesalite glass so purists tend to go for that albeit Sapphire is more practical. Less scratches and won’t break however hesalite glass does tend to give you a better view of the dial.

The 3861 is METAS certified for +0 to +5 seconds so technically it should never run slow. My own experience has been pretty great in that regard at +0.4 spd average.

I agree the bracelet is fantastic, I want to say it's the best part, but the reality is that the 3861 on the whole is just fantastic all around in all aspects, from the dial, to the slightly slimmer case and lug to lug, to the movement. I have the Hesalite version and the dial just pops with that crystal. Amazing.

[Bizcut1]

I am absolutely loving mine...and what a great feeling it is to walk into an AD, try on some watches, and then walk out with a new, classic timepiece on my wrist...and don't even ask me about the discount!

Just a great experience and I can't keep from staring at mine even after a week on the wrist.

[Turbo Racer]

Great feedback guys. I do like being able to see the movement in the back. It’s pretty amazing to see. I think that was a drawback to the Apollo 11 where you get the footprint on the back. OTOH you can’t see the movement when you’re wearing the watch.

[fdm79]

Sold my 2014 BLNR for a 3861 Sapphire 5 days ago !
Absolutely ZERO regrets ! It is my first Speedy and I can't stop staring at it as well !

[Bizcut1]

Okay, one more...

[usmc_k9_vet]

It sounds like you need to determine what features you like and that are important to you and that will help you narrow things down. For instance:

-sapphire vs hesalite
-automatic vs manual wind
-see through case back or closed case back
-39.7mm, 42mm, or 44.25mm (and probably some in between)
-steel case vs ceramic case
-aluminum bezel vs ceramic bezel
-bracelet vs strap (although possibly all of these can be had on either)
-do you want just the chronograph, or do you also want a date, moonphase complication, etc.?
-METAS movement vs non-METAS movement

Im sure there are more, but answer all of this and that will really narrow things down for you. The choices can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s also pretty awesome that there’s something for everyone, and all of them are still immediately recognizable as a Speedmaster.

Edit to add: No matter which one you get, make sure you enjoy a burger and fries with it!





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[Turbo Racer]

Originally Posted by fdm79

Sold my 2014 BLNR for a 3861 Sapphire 5 days ago !
Absolutely ZERO regrets ! It is my first Speedy and I can't stop staring at it as well !

Excellent looking watch! Nice to hear you don’t miss your gmt. Beautiful photos!

[Turbo Racer]

Originally Posted by Bizcut1

Okay, one more...

great shot in black and white. The granular finish on the dial almost looks like it’s got a light coat of moon dust.

[Turbo Racer]

Originally Posted by usmc_k9_vet

It sounds like you need to determine what features you like and that are important to you and that will help you narrow things down. For instance:

-sapphire vs hesalite
-automatic vs manual wind
-see through case back or closed case back
-39.7mm, 42mm, or 44.25mm (and probably some in between)
-steel case vs ceramic case
-aluminum bezel vs ceramic bezel
-bracelet vs strap (although possibly all of these can be had on either)
-do you want just the chronograph, or do you also want a date, moonphase complication, etc.?
-METAS movement vs non-METAS movement

Im sure there are more, but answer all of this and that will really narrow things down for you. The choices can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s also pretty awesome that there’s something for everyone, and all of them are still immediately recognizable as a Speedmaster.

Edit to add: No matter which one you get, make sure you enjoy a burger and fries with it!





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I absolutely agree with this. And it’s a bit overwhelming. I guess I’m not a purist here wanting the original old school movement. For me, I have answered a few of these questions. I do prefer the current 42 mm case size and the sapphire crystal only because my wife says I’m hard on things and I want to not worry so much over scratches. I generally like special or limited items but honestly my watch collection does not reflect this. I generally view watches as works of art that have two components: aesthetics and then what I will crudely refer to is gadgetry. This would include movement and things like a moon phase, chrono, even a date. Can’t say at this point what I will want. I guess I will keep reading here and looking at picture and see what moves me(pun intended).

[DoubleJG]

It’s all about personal preference. I’d been wanting a speedy for a couple years, finally pulled the trigger a couple months ago and got an 1861, with a nice discount. For me, I knew I wanted the classic hesalite and I’ve got zero regrets.




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[alllexandru]

If you want the sapphire go for 3861 and get also the latest technology in mvt
If you like to stay classic and closer to the origins go for 1861 hesalite
There is no wrong with either one.

You will always find a better looker here on the forum with so many special or limited edition of Soeedmaster.


Have a look also on Tokyo Rising Sun edition in my opinion one of the best looking Speedy you can find and still at a decent (if I can say this) price

My 1861 salute you

[fdm79]

Originally Posted by Turbo Racer

Excellent looking watch! Nice to hear you don’t miss your gmt. Beautiful photos!

Thank you !
I don't miss my BLNR even after 7 years owning it, given also the fact that I own a BLRO and a Sub LV. For stupid sentimental values, I could say I miss the BLNR due to the fact it was my very first Rolex. In the end it wasn't getting much wrist time since I prefer the BLRO.

As for the Speedy, I'm no expert... Bought mine last Friday but with all the considerations, I wanted to have the closest I could to the very first ones from 1962 to 1972 but at the same time, keeping the sapphire since I really care about scratches. The 1863 previous model was/is very nice but somehow I didn't end up getting one. One of the big cons for me, believe it or not was the lack of hacking seconds complication. Bracelet is big indeed (1861/1863) and has never been a problem for me although I much prefer the new bracelet. After the 3861 release I just knew I'd get one ! Now I'm getting more and more into the speedy history and heritage. It's all I needed to have in combination with my Navitimer 01 and BLRO when it comes to Aviation/Space

[1William]

Many factors to consider but don't get too bogged down in all of the details. As WIS we tend to focus on every detail and sometimes we miss the obvious. I own the 1861 and the 3861 Hesilite. Both are great watches and both are a lot of fun to wear. If I had to pick it would be the 3861 for the movement and the bracelet, both of which are great. My comment and observation is jump in, pick a watch, buy a watch and start the ownership experience. Part of the fun is research but the best part is ownership. I do not think you can make a bad choice only a different choice. I would trade that Zenith with a Trusted Seller, you are going to get your feelings hurt over what they are going to offer you. I would pick the Omega Speedmaster I wanted and I would have the watch by the weekend. Good luck and I look forward to some incoming posts.

[alllexandru]

Originally Posted by Bizcut1

Okay, one more...

Well done! Great photo with all fine details!

[NardinNut]

I’d say, from my experience, start with the new 3861 with sapphire. Years ago I started with the 1861 hesalite and loved it. I then started down the Speedmaster addiction path and become enomoured with the history. Ended up getting the 60th anniversary “trilogy” Speedy. That one oozes vintage charm. I decided to part ways with the 1861 last year when the 321 “Ed White” was announced as it become my mission to convince my AD I was worthy enough for them to sell me one. The 321 was everything I loved about the Speedmaster, and it’s history, in one watch. Fast forward and I recently received the 321 and it’s absolutely incredible. It has quickly become my favorite watch in my vast collection.

Going back to the beginning of my rant and my suggestion of the 3861 sapphire dial, vs hesalite or 1861, comes from some of the aspects of the 321 that I love:

- The 321 with it’s sapphire sandwich and view of the amazing 321 movement is the main draw for me on the watch, the incredible bracelet being the next. Being able to view the 3861 movement will make you interact with, and appreciate, the watch so much more. The 1861 misses out on that level of interaction, from my experience.

- The sapphire will allow you to worry less about the damage potential with hesalite and, at least with the 321, creates an incredible flat view of the dial that looks amazing. However, I have read that this is very unique to the 321 sapphire vs the 3861, not sure if that’s true as I never had a sapphire speedy before the 321.

- As for the bracelet, the 1861 and 60th anniversary bracelets are a let down. I rarely had my 1861 on bracelet and my 60th is almost exclusively on the nato (which is an amazing nato). The 321 bracelet is one of the best I’ve ever worn. I doubt I’ll ever take it off the bracelet. I recently tried on the new 3861 and the new bracelet is outstanding. That alone is worth getting the 3861.

All in, these experiences I’ve had with three separate Speedys is why I think the 3861 sapphire is the way to go. Hope this rant helps. If not, then here are some pics to make my post worthwhile :)

[Bizcut1]

Beautiful piece - huge congrats and wear it in good health!

[Turbo Racer]

Great. Moments and advise here. Thanks guys!!