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What makes the Apollo 8 a standout Dark Side of the Moon?
Its appeal comes from the way the watch connects the Apollo 8 mission to the movement itself. Through the skeletonised black anodized aluminium dial, the wearer can see the decorated Calibre 3869. OMEGA describes the dial-side lunar view as the Moon seen from Earth; the caseback presents the far side as seen by astronauts.
The movement’s laser-ablated lunar relief is the defining detail of the 2024 update. OMEGA says the surface appears on the blackened main plate and bridges, turning the Moon connection into visible movement decoration rather than leaving it only to the name and dial. A Saturn V rocket-shaped chronograph seconds hand adds another mission reference.
These features support an editorial case for the Apollo 8 as one of the most distinctive watches in the Dark Side of the Moon family. They do not establish that it is objectively the best: the sources do not provide a controlled comparison, owner survey, or hands-on comfort assessment.
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- Model 310.30.42.50.01.002
Which Apollo 8 Speedmaster is the current model?
OMEGA’s current product page identifies the Apollo 8 as reference 310.92.44.50.01.001. It is a 44.25 mm black ceramic model supplied on a rubber strap. Check the reference when comparing listings; the 2024 model’s number and movement should not be assumed to apply to the original Apollo 8 edition.
OMEGA says the first Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 was released in 2018, marking 50 years since the 1968 mission. The brand announced the updated version in January 2024 as a refinement of that design.
Rank #2
- Stainless steel case
- Black dial
- Swiss-automatic movement
- Case diameter: 40mm
- Water resistant to 330 feet
What changed in the 2024 Apollo 8?
The update introduced hand-wound Calibre 3869, with the laser-ablated lunar surface on its blackened components and contrasting finishes. OMEGA states that the movement meets the Co-Axial Master Chronometer standard. These are manufacturer-published specifications and claims, not independent test results.
The visual concept remains centered on the skeletonised dial and lunar views on either side of the movement. OMEGA characterized the update as “an even finer level of detailing and refinement”; that is the brand’s description, rather than an independent assessment.
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- Model 310.32.42.50.01.001
How to decide whether it is the best one for you
| What matters to you | What the Apollo 8 offers | What to keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Moonwatch and Apollo connection | The model is named for Apollo 8, the 1968 mission; OMEGA says the first Apollo 8 edition arrived in 2018. | The mission connection may be a major draw, but its importance is personal. |
| Visible movement detail | The skeletonised dial exposes Calibre 3869, whose 2024-update decoration includes laser-ablated lunar relief. | An openworked display is a defining design choice; it will not suit everyone. |
| Materials and size | The current product page specifies a 44.25 mm black ceramic case and rubber strap. | Dimensions alone cannot establish how the watch will feel on an individual wrist. |
| Movement credentials | OMEGA identifies the current model’s movement as Calibre 3869 and says it meets the Co-Axial Master Chronometer standard. | The available material does not provide an independent comparative test against other Dark Side of the Moon models. |
Fratello has also favored the Apollo 8 within the Dark Side of the Moon family, particularly for its Moonwatch connection. That is a useful independent editorial opinion, not proof of a consensus or a head-to-head test.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Rubber
- Rotating bezel, gmt
- Automatic-self-wind movement
- Case diameter: 40mm
- Water resistant to 330 feet
Rank #4
- OMEGA Speedmaster Racing Chronograph 326.30.40.50.01.001
What to verify before buying
- Confirm the full reference, 310.92.44.50.01.001, if you want the current model described here.
- Check the seller’s authorization, local availability, price, and the exact watch offered; those details can vary and are not established here.
- If comfort is decisive, try the 44.25 mm case on your wrist. No wear test or fit assessment is established by the published specifications.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
