Omega has been producing the Speedmaster model line since 1957. Unsurprisingly, the Speedy was a hit even at inception. Less than a decade later, the Speedmaster would triumph in NASA’s space qualification tests and soon after become the first watch on the moon.
Today, I’ll be reviewing my own Omega Speedmaster CK2998 311.32.40.30.02.001, a timepiece drawing direct inspiration from its earliest predecessors. At the same time, this Speedy incorporates the technology and construction pedigree that we’ve come to expect from the Swatch Group giant.
This review is broken down into the following sections:
Keep scrolling through to see the full specs of this limited edition chronograph from Omega. Likewise, we take a look at the accessories included in the box. Alternatively, use the links above if you prefer to jump around.
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Omega CK2998 Price & Specs
- Retail Price: $6,500
- Reference: 311.32.40.30.02.001
- Case Diameter: 39.7mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Strap: Black Calfskin, Perforated
- Crystal: Scratch-Resistant Sapphire
- Dial: Sand-blasted Silver with Black Subregisters
- Alpha Center Hands, Varnished Red Chronograph Hand
- Bezel: Black Ceramic
- Pulsometer Scale
- Movement: Omega Calibre 1861, Hand-Wound
- 48 Hour Power Reserve
- Limited Edition of 2,998 Pieces
Omega CK2998 “Panda” On The Wrist Review
Every day, watch collectors all around the world are forced to look themselves in the mirror and make an arduous decision.
Figuratively, of course. We’re actually looking into our watch box and wondering what timepiece to put on our wrist.
Since July of 2018, this difficult decision was eased by the presence of the CK2998 in my collection. Even after the initial honeymoon period, I found myself reaching for the trusty pulsometer Speedy for many occasions.
Speedmaster CK2998 Steel Case & Calf Racing Strap
The black-and-white theme allowed me to enjoy the CK2998 with many ensembles, from semi-formal to more casual. The notoriously tall case, which I measured at 14.5mm, did not have any major issues fitting under my cuffs.
The stainless steel case, 39.7mm in diameter, offers perfect proportions and fits rather nicely on my ~8″ wrist. In contrast to those who prefer oversized, I generally lean towards smaller, more refined cases and found this size to wear very comfortably.
Additionally, the supple calf strap is very pleasing, with no real break in period required. The fact that this watch is presented on a strap definitely subdues the case height, as the watch “sinks” into the wrist.
My only objection at this point are the perforations on the strap. Indeed, they help the wrist breathe when out under the sun. Yet, they seem more fitting for a racing watch than a chronograph intended to measure pulsations.
Nevertheless, this small design choice adds to the favorable look of the watch, even if it does not necessarily align with the proposed functionality.
Omega Speedmaster CK2998 Water Resistance
While the Speedmaster CK2998 ventures into the sports watch category, its water resistance rating does not. The 50m depth rating should be taken with a grain of salt. The watch itself, on the other hand, should be taken nowhere near deep water.
This is not to say it won’t stand up against a splash while washing your hands. But it probably won’t hold its own through a splash in the pool or ocean.
In spite of this, I did not find it to be a limitation in my day to day needs. Generally speaking, I tend to lean towards my Seikos whenever I happen to take a dive.
In all other instances, the CK2998 served me beautifully. The panda dial is truly captivating, and I found myself glancing down at it regularly.
The OMEGA Calibre 1861
Finally, the tried-and-true Omega 1861 caliber powering this Speedy left little to be desired. Although the two day power reserve is not industry-leading, it is to be expected with a Speedmaster Chronograph.
I would venture to say that it comes with the territory. The movement, a direct descendant of the first watch worn on the moon, is a reminder of times when automatic chronographs were not widespread.
Furthermore, I don’t find it particularly cumbersome setting the time when I pick up the watch. This ritual ensures a couple of calming seconds in otherwise hectic mornings.
What’s In This Speedy’s Box?
If you’ve checked out my previous review of the Seamaster 300 Spectre where I showcased the box set, you know that Omega truly sets the bar in this department. However, the accessory set for this Speedmaster CK2998 is much simpler.
Although this may be true, I use the term simpler here in a positive context. More specifically, I am perfectly content with fewer accoutrements if it’s reflected in the purchase price, which it certainly is with this CK2998.
As you can see, the watch is accompanied by a sturdy wooden box and protective outer box. Within these lie the instruction booklet, certificate of authenticity, warranty and pictorgram cards, and a branded leather card holder.
Final Thoughts On The Speedmaster CK2998 Panda
I personally own both this Panda CK2998 and the 2016 limited edition CK2998 in blue. While I generally prefer the blue variant, I was surprised by how much I truly enjoyed wearing this Panda. The black-on-white theme may actually stand the test of time more favorably that my personal pick.
All things considered, they are both great watches, and the different color themes allow for personal preferences to shine through. Speaking of different colors – Omega has historically offered four types of bezel scales:
- Tachymeter – White/Blue (Check)
- Pulsometer – White/Black (Check)
- Telemeter
- Decimeter
Given that the first two types have been released, it’s highly likely that the two remaining will be reissued in the future. Personally, I believe we may see a CK2298 in maroon or green themes, but only time will tell.
The only unfortunate thing here is the fact that, owning two of these already, I’m probably on the hook to complete the set when it’s available. My pain will surely be your gain though. I’ll undoubtedly be letting you know what my thoughts on them are right here in Bespoke Unit watch section.
Now that you’ve gotten my take, let me know what you think of the Omega Speedmaster CK2998 Pulsometer in the comments below!
Omega Speedmaster CK2998 Review & Unboxing Video
Further Reading
If you enjoyed our dive into this Speedmaster CK2998, check out our other watch reviews and guides:
- Why I Finally Bought An Omega Speedmaster 300 James Bond Spectre
- The 2017 Omega 1957 Trilogy Triple Watch Set – Review With Pictures
- All Of Our Speedmaster Articles
- Our Omega Brand Page
- What Is Swatch Group?
"The CK2998 Panda is exceptional. I am eagerly awaiting the future limited editions Omega may come up with for the CK2998 model line."Rating: 5.0 ★★★★★
Love the look but need a date window and prefer 42mm.
Hey Gman,
I can definitely see where you’re coming from. The date functionality is absolutely key for me as well. Unfortunately, it’s one of the compromises that comes with the majority of speedmasters.
Best,
Rafael
I, I loved your review. I’ve just been gifted of this watch for my 30th birthday from my wife and parents, and I really really love it (I admire the Speedy style, I already have the moonwatch, and love this even more).
Do you think it is a good “investment “either? Will it stand at the actual price?
Thank you, greetings from Italy
Hey Giacomo,
Thanks for your feedback on our review, as well as a congrats on the new watch! Your wife picked a tasteful gift. As far as being an investment, it’d be difficult to say if this model will go up in value over time. Indeed, the CK2998 models are limited in their production, but the watch community is very finicky when it comes to the specific models that become ultra-desired and therefore command a premium. With this in mind, it does look like the Panda CK2998 price on the second hand market is hovering around its retail price, even one year after its initial release. This is certainly good news for any one who owns one, as the expectation when purchasing a timepiece in new condition is that its value will drop by 40-50% when you walk out of the store. So in this regard, the CK2998’s value is performing very well.
Best,
Rafael
Hope to be able to get this panda before price hype up. It’s a beauty so I can see this will be future collectible n will get harder to get
Hey Robin,
Unfortunately, it looks like the price has already gone up quite a bit since we first published this review. That being said, I think it’s still a phenomenal watch for the current price and believe its design will remain relevant for many years to come!
Rafael