The Omega Speedmaster Professional, affectionately known as the Moonwatch, is an iconic timepiece with a rich history and legendary status. A crucial element contributing to its character and performance is the choice of crystal: Hesalite or Sapphire. This seemingly minor detail significantly impacts the watch's aesthetics, durability, and overall ownership experience. This article will delve deep into the comparison between the Omega Speedmaster Professional with Hesalite and Sapphire crystals, exploring their respective pros and cons, addressing cost considerations, and clarifying common misconceptions.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Hesalite: A Legacy of Resilience
The original Speedmaster Professional, the one worn on the moon, featured a Hesalite crystal. This acrylic-based material has a distinct, slightly yellowish hue that many enthusiasts consider part of the watch's vintage charm. Hesalite’s character is crucial to understanding its appeal:
Pros of Hesalite:
* The Iconic Look: The slightly domed, yellowish tint of the Hesalite crystal is intrinsically linked to the Speedmaster's heritage. It contributes significantly to the watch's vintage aesthetic and is a key element of its appeal for collectors and enthusiasts. It's the look that evokes the Apollo missions and the watch's legendary status.
* Scratch Resistance (with a caveat): While not as scratch-resistant as sapphire, Hesalite possesses a surprising level of resilience. Minor scratches can often be polished out using a specialized polishing kit, restoring the crystal to its former glory. This repairability adds to the watch's longevity and reduces the fear of irreversible damage from everyday wear.
* Shatter Resistance: In a direct impact, Hesalite is more likely to crack or shatter rather than simply scratch. However, the way it shatters is less likely to result in sharp, dangerous fragments compared to sapphire, which can break into sharper pieces. This is a significant consideration for those concerned about safety in case of accidental damage.
* Lower Replacement Cost (relatively): Compared to replacing a sapphire crystal, the cost of replacing a Hesalite crystal is significantly lower. This is a crucial factor to consider, especially given that Hesalite is more prone to scratching and potentially cracking than sapphire. (We'll explore replacement costs in more detail later.)
* Lightweight: Hesalite is considerably lighter than sapphire, resulting in a slightly lighter overall weight for the watch. This difference might be negligible for some, but it can be appreciated by those who prefer a less substantial feel on the wrist.
Cons of Hesalite:
* Susceptibility to Scratches: Hesalite is undeniably more prone to scratching than sapphire. While minor scratches can be polished out, deeper scratches may be more difficult or impossible to remove completely. This requires more care in handling the watch.
* Yellowing Over Time: While the slight yellow tint is considered desirable by many, prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause the Hesalite crystal to yellow further, potentially affecting the overall appearance of the watch.
* Less Clarity: Compared to sapphire, Hesalite offers slightly less clarity and can exhibit a slight distortion at certain angles. This is a subtle difference, but it's noticeable to discerning eyes.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Sapphire: Modern Durability
The Omega Speedmaster Professional is also available with a sapphire crystal. Sapphire is a synthetically produced crystal known for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance.
Pros of Sapphire:
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