Lava, polar lights, desert – Yanko Design

If you thought Omega and Swatch had run out of tricks to come up with new variants of the MoonSwatch, think again. The two brands just released three new collaborative releases today. Unlike the year full of subtle “Full Moon” variations and two Snoopy-inspired releases, these are Earth-inspired and incredibly creative.

Creator: Swatch + Omega

The new MoonSwatch collection, under the “Mission on Earth” banner, features three distinct models: Lava, Polar Lights and Desert. These watches retain the familiar look of the iconic Omega Speedmaster “Moonwatch” but bring fresh, vibrant and earthy inspirations into the design, each echoing a unique natural phenomenon. Priced at $300 each, these styles are available exclusively at select Swatch stores starting June 15. Let’s examine the intricate details of each model, explore the thoughtful design elements and how they pay homage to their inspirations and predecessors.

Mission on Earth: Lava

The Mission on Earth Lava model is an embodiment of fiery energy and volcanic intensity. The bright orange bioceramic case immediately catches the eye, creating a striking contrast with the black dial and bezel. This choice of color is not just aesthetic; it pays homage to the Speedmaster “Ultraman” with its famous orange seconds hand. The Lava model’s subdials feature Arabic numerals and indexes arranged in a radial format, reminiscent of the designs seen in the Speedmaster Alaska II and III projects. This attention to detail connects the watch to its Omega heritage, while the modern bioceramic material ensures durability and lightness on the wrist.

The black VELCRO strap is a practical choice, with orange stitching that ties all the colors together. The strap design ensures a secure fit, suitable for both casual outfits and more adventurous outings. The Super-LumiNova coating on the hands and indexes provides excellent visibility in low light conditions, improving both the functionality and visual appeal of the watch in the dark.

The back of the watch continues this theme with an engraved image of the Earth seen from space. This engraving reinforces the watch’s connection with the “Mission on Earth” theme and adds a unique touch that sets it apart from other models in the collection.

Mission on Earth: the polar auroras

The Polar Lights model stands out with its turquoise bioceramic case, reflecting the captivating colors of the Northern Lights. The dark blue dial, speckled with tiny silver flakes, imitates the starry sky and is inspired by aventurine glass dials. This design choice makes each watch unique, as the snowflake pattern varies slightly from one piece to another. Turquoise hands and tachymeter scale complement the case, creating a cohesive and visually stunning color palette.

The recessed subdials feature white rings and radial indexes, a nod to the Speedmaster Alaska II and III projects. This continuity in design elements connects the Polar Lights to its Omega lineage while introducing a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. The blue VELCRO strap with turquoise stitching is functional and enhances the overall visual harmony of the watch.

The rear of the Polar Lights model is particularly notable. It features an engraving of the Earth, seen from space, highlighting the theme of “Mission to Earth”. This detailed engraving adds an artistic and unique element, making the watch a collector’s item.

Mission on Earth: Desert

The Desert model offers a more sober but sophisticated aesthetic, inspired by the vast expanses of sand that cover a significant part of the Earth’s surface. The sand-colored bioceramic case, crown and pushers blend seamlessly with the greige (taupe) dial and bracelet, creating an elegant and versatile monochromatic look. Sand-colored hands and tachymeter scale keep the theme consistent, while radial subdials nod to the Speedmaster Alaska II and III projects.

The greige VELCRO strap, with contrasting sand-colored stitching, ties the design together and ensures a secure hold. This watch is perfect for those who prefer a more understated look without sacrificing the rich heritage and design elements of the Omega Speedmaster.

The back of the Desert model, like its counterparts, features an engraving of the Earth seen from space. This detail reinforces the watch’s connection to the “Mission on Earth” theme and adds a layer of depth to its design.

Design comparison: original mission to Earth versus polar auroras

Comparing the original Mission to Earth with the new Polar Lights model highlights Swatch and Omega’s evolution in design creativity. The original Mission to Earth featured a traditional, understated color palette, focusing on earthy tones that reflected a grounded aesthetic. In contrast, the Polar Lights model takes a bold and vibrant approach with its turquoise and dark blue color palette inspired by the Northern Lights.

The Polar Lights’ aventurine-inspired dial, with its speckled silver flakes, introduces a unique element absent from the original. This design choice makes each watch distinct, adding a personal touch that collectors appreciate. While the original focused on traditional elements, the Polar Lights model pushes the boundaries with its dynamic and visually captivating design.

As a watch collector, the Polar Lights model stands out as the most interesting option among the new releases. Its striking color palette and unique dial make it a must-have for enthusiasts. This model represents a significant departure from the original Mission to Earth, showcasing Swatch and Omega’s commitment to innovation and their ability to cater to diverse aesthetic preferences. This comparison highlights the brands’ commitment to combining heritage and contemporary design, making the MoonSwatch collection a compelling choice for watch lovers.