How to Spot a Fake Omega Speedmaster Professional

The Omega Speedmaster Professional is a revered timepiece with a storied history, known for its role in NASA's space missions. However, with its popularity comes the risk of counterfeits. Spotting a fake can be challenging, but with a keen eye and some knowledge, you can differentiate between the genuine and the counterfeit. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive approach to identifying a fake Omega Speedmaster Professional.

1. Examine the Movement
The heart of any watch is its movement. The Omega Speedmaster Professional typically uses the manual-winding Caliber 1861 or the Caliber 1863 in newer models. A counterfeit watch might have a movement that looks similar but lacks the precision and intricacy of the genuine Omega movements.

2. Inspect the Case Back
The case back of the genuine Speedmaster Professional should be engraved with “SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL” and “MOONWATCH” in a specific font. Counterfeit watches may have incorrect engravings or varying fonts. Additionally, the genuine case back should have a clear and precise engraving of the Omega logo, often surrounded by “FLIGHT-QUALIFIED BY NASA FOR ALL MANNED SPACE MISSIONS” and “THE FIRST WATCH WORN ON THE MOON.”

3. Check the Dial
The Speedmaster Professional's dial should have a specific layout. Pay attention to the sub-dials and their placement. The spacing between the sub-dials, the markers, and the Omega logo should be accurate and precise. Any deviation might indicate a counterfeit. Additionally, the printing should be crisp and free of any smudging or misalignment.

4. Evaluate the Hands
The hands on the Speedmaster Professional are distinctive. The chronograph hands should be thin and elongated with a specific shape. A common trick used by counterfeiters is to use incorrect hand shapes or lengths. Ensure that the chronograph seconds hand is aligned properly and that the sub-dial hands are in sync with their respective functions.

5. Look at the Tachymetric Scale
The tachymetric scale around the bezel is another critical feature. On a genuine Speedmaster Professional, the scale should be precise and evenly spaced. Counterfeits often have inconsistencies in the font, spacing, or alignment of the tachymetric scale.

6. Scrutinize the Logo
The Omega logo on the dial should be clean and well-defined. Any blurriness or unevenness is a red flag. The logo should be located at 12 o'clock and should not be off-center. Pay attention to the “Ω” symbol and the quality of its execution.

7. Examine the Serial Number
Every genuine Omega Speedmaster Professional has a unique serial number located between the lugs at 6 o'clock. Check the serial number against Omega's database or contact an authorized dealer to verify its authenticity. Counterfeit watches may have missing or fake serial numbers.

8. Verify the Weight
The Speedmaster Professional has a specific weight due to its construction materials. If the watch feels unusually light or heavy, it could be a sign of a counterfeit.

9. Test the Chronograph Function
The chronograph function should start, stop, and reset smoothly. A fake Speedmaster might have a chronograph that is less precise or malfunctions. Pay attention to how the chronograph functions and whether it aligns properly.

10. Seek Professional Authentication
When in doubt, seek the help of a professional watchmaker or an authorized Omega dealer. They have the tools and expertise to perform a thorough inspection and confirm the authenticity of the timepiece.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing a fake Omega Speedmaster Professional. Remember, the more knowledge you have, the better equipped you'll be to make an informed decision.