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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The 1969 Omega Speedmaster Mark II and the 2014 reissue share the distinctive tonneau-shaped case, but they are different watches in important ways. The original is a hand-wound calibre 861 chronograph in a 41.5 mm case; the reissue is larger, automatic, and adds a date. Choose the vintage ST 145.014 for period character and the original design, or the 2014 model for automatic convenience and a more substantial fit.
What is the Omega Speedmaster Mark II?
Introduced in 1969 as reference ST 145.014, the Mark II was the first major redesign of the Speedmaster. Its streamlined barrel- or tonneau-shaped case set it apart from the familiar Moonwatch silhouette while retaining the Speedmaster chronograph identity. Omega also catalogues the original as ST 145.0014.
The original range included black, racing, gilt and solid 18K yellow-gold dial variants. Omega lists the stainless-steel bracelet as reference 1162/173. Those variations matter when assessing a specific vintage example: the watch should be judged against the correct version, not an assumption that every Mark II looked alike.
1969 original vs. 2014 reissue
| Feature | 1969 original | 2014 reissue |
|---|---|---|
| Reference | ST 145.014; also catalogued as ST 145.0014 | 327.10.43.50.01.001 (black dial); 327.10.43.50.06.001 (racing dial) |
| Case | 41.5 mm, stainless steel | 42.4 mm wide by 46.2 mm lug-to-lug |
| Movement and winding | Calibre 861, manual winding | Calibre 3330, self-winding Co-Axial chronograph |
| Date | No date | Date aperture at six o’clock |
| Crystal | Mineral glass | Not stated in the cited 2014 review |
| Water resistance | 6 bar (60 m/200 ft) in Omega Japan’s ST 145.0014 catalogue | Not stated in the cited 2014 review |
The dimensions are not a direct like-for-like measurement: Omega gives the vintage case diameter, while the 2014 review gives the reissue’s width and lug-to-lug length. In that review, a vintage comparison example measured about 41.75 mm by 45 mm. The modern bracelet closely echoes the original’s broad, fully brushed style, but the dial printing, wording, racing-track details and layout are updated rather than copied exactly.
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What changed in the movement?
The original’s manual calibre 861 was first used in 1968. Omega describes it as a simplification of the calibre 321 architecture. Among the changes were a flat balance spring and a shuttle cam in place of a column wheel. Its beat frequency increased to 21,600 vibrations per hour; later, steel chronograph brakes were replaced by Delrin to reduce friction and extend service life.
The 2014 watch’s calibre 3330 changes the ownership experience as well as the movement specification: it is a self-winding Co-Axial chronograph, so it does not require daily manual winding in the same way as the original. That does not make it a movement-for-movement reproduction. The reissue is a modern interpretation of the Mark II, not a mechanically faithful recreation of calibre 861.
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- RACING CHRONOGRAPH DESIGN: The 1960 Racing Chronograph watch features a striking off-white and black panda dial, capturing the golden era of motorsport with modern precision.
- PRECISE QUARTZ MOVEMENT: Powered by a highly accurate quartz chronograph movement, this analog watch ensures perfect timekeeping and reliable stopwatch functionality for men.
- DOMED SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL: Fitted with a scratch-resistant domed sapphire crystal and anti-reflective coating, offering unparalleled optical clarity and protection against wear.
- PREMIUM STAINLESS STEEL: Crafted from high-grade 316L stainless steel, the watch case provides a robust, premium feel that resists daily wear for long-lasting performance.
- EVERYDAY VERSATILITY: Boasting a 5 ATM water resistance rating, this classic sports watch handles daily splashes and perfectly complements both casual and formal attire.
How does each version wear and look?
The vintage Mark II
The original’s case is slightly smaller than the 2014 reissue and has the period proportions of the 1969 design. Its appeal is not only its shape: a hand-wound chronograph offers a more involved daily interaction, and the period dial variants give collectors different expressions of the model.
The 2014 Mark II
The reissue keeps the tonneau case language but has a more substantial footprint. Its updated graphics and date make it visibly contemporary when compared side by side with an original. The black-dial reference is 327.10.43.50.01.001; the racing-dial reference is 327.10.43.50.06.001.
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Which Mark II should you buy?
- Choose a vintage ST 145.014 or ST 145.0014 if historical authenticity, period design and manual winding are central to what you want. Treat it as a vintage watch whose condition and originality need careful assessment, not simply as an older version of the reissue.
- Choose the 2014 reissue if you want automatic winding, the date display and a larger contemporary presence. It preserves the case concept without reproducing every original detail or its movement.
What to check before buying a vintage example
Age alone does not establish value or quality. A vintage Mark II’s originality, condition, parts and service history can materially affect both ownership and the watch’s character. Ask the seller for clear photographs and documentation, and have the watch assessed by a qualified watchmaker familiar with vintage Omega chronographs when possible.
- Reference and serial consistency: check that the stated reference and movement details are consistent with the watch and its documentation.
- Dial and hands: confirm that the dial variant is appropriate and ask whether the dial, hands or other components have been replaced or refinished.
- Case condition: inspect the case edges and shape for signs of polishing, which can soften the original contours.
- Movement and service: ask whether the chronograph functions correctly and request dated service documentation. A seller’s claim that a watch runs is not a substitute for a service history or an independent inspection.
- Bracelet and transaction terms: verify whether the bracelet is period-correct and confirm the return policy before committing.
The sources cited here do not establish current market prices, independent accuracy results or live availability. Check regional listings and condition-specific specialist advice rather than relying on a single asking price or age as a measure of worth.
Rank #4
- RACING-INSPIRED DUAL-LAYER DIAL—— Inspired by racing dashboards, the bold dual-layer dial delivers depth and clarity, featuring applied hour markers and a CD-textured chronograph subdial for easy reading in everyday wear.
- HAND-WOUND MECHANICAL CHRONOGRAPH—— Powered by the ST19 hand-wound chronograph movement. This mechanical watch does not use a battery—manual winding is required for normal operation and precise timing.
- DAILY MANUAL WINDING RITUAL—— To keep the watch running, gently rotate the crown clockwise about 15–20 turns each day. When resistance is felt, winding is complete—an engaging, hands-on mechanical experience.
- FUNCTIONAL CHRONOGRAPH WITH TACHYMETER—— Equipped with a mechanical chronograph and tachymeter scale for measuring speed over distance, inspired by classic motorsport instrumentation.
- COMFORTABLE FIT & EASY STRAP SWITCHING—— 40 mm case diameter with a 12.4 mm thickness offers balanced wrist presence. Lug width is 20 mm, paired with quick-release straps (120 + 80 mm) for easy daily switching between styles.
The Rio 2016 limited edition
Omega’s Rio 2016 Mark II retained the reissue’s technical specification and added Olympic-themed dial and caseback details. The 2014 review reports a production limit of 2,016 pieces. It is a themed limited edition, rather than a separate mechanical redesign.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Gold Swan Neck Regulator
- Column Wheel Chronograph
- Luminous Hands
- Blue steel screws
- Exhibition Case Back Cover
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.
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