Exploring the Rare Omega Speedymoon Trilogy: Small Moon, Big Moon, and Smiley Moon – Ref. 345.0809
Surely, if any chronograph deserves a moonphase complication, it’s the Moonwatch. But, like all good things, the moonphase wasn't part of the Speedmaster family until the 1980s. This is the reference 345.0809—better known by collectors as the Speedymoon. Introduced in 1985, it brought not only the most romantic complication to Omega’s legendary chronograph, but also added a date function, vertically symmetric dial layout, and distinctive flanking text around the 6 o’clock subdial, reminiscent of early A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia models. At the time, this was the most complicated Speedmaster Omega had ever produced—and arguably, it still looks far prettier than the most complicated Speedmaster being made today.
Despite its technical sophistication and aesthetic charm, the Speedymoon sold poorly in period. From 1985 to 1989, fewer than 1,300 examples are thought to have been produced. Of those, approximately 15% were strap-only variants made primarily for the Mexican and Italian markets. This means that fewer than 1,100 bracelet-equipped examples of the 345.0809 are likely in existence today—making this an exceptionally rare Speedmaster by any standard.
'Small Moon'
What makes the Speedymoon even more fascinating to collectors are the small—but significant—variations in its moonphase disc, which give rise to three main subtypes. The Speedymoon “Small Moon” features a slightly smaller moon with four or six-pointed stars scattered around it. These made up the bulk of production and offer a subtler take on the moonphase display. The Speedymoon “Big Moon” variant, by contrast, showcases a larger moon on the disc and is flanked by five-pointed stars, creating a bolder, more pronounced aesthetic that feels appropriately grand for a watch inspired by lunar exploration.
'Big Moon'
Then there’s the most elusive and charismatic of the trio: the Speedymoon “Smiley Moon.” These rare examples—thought to number fewer than 25—are distinguished by a hand-painted moon that bears a charming upward-curving “smile.” Each was painted individually, making every example subtly unique. This variant represents a whimsical twist in a watch otherwise known for its technical elegance, and its rarity makes it one of the most desirable Speedmasters in existence today.
'Smiley Moon'
All Speedymoon models are powered by the Lemania-based caliber 866, and while they share the same reference, it’s the moonphase disc that defines their character. With vertical symmetry, a balanced design, and a suite of complications that complement the Speedmaster’s history perfectly, the 345.0809 is an underappreciated gem. Whether your taste leans toward the classic lines of the Small Moon, the commanding presence of the Big Moon, or the collector lore of the Smiley, the Speedymoon remains one of the most romantic and nuanced chapters in the Speedmaster story.
