Omega Speedmaster 3861 - Purchasing Experience & First Impressions

In this video I head over to Hyde Park in Denver, Colorado, to pick up the new Omega Speedmaster 3861 reference 310.30.42.50.01.002 also known as the Sapphire Sandwhich. I had originally owned the outgoing 1861 and never thought I'd let it go, but the new model had all the subtle upgrades I was hoping for. Geof from Hyde Park did a great job helping me make the decision. A big thank you to him and the team!

[@giovannibucio]

me2 f@ck new cars i got a seamaster300 pro blk dial blk rubber strap sedna gold and planet ocean 39mm brown ceramics sedna gold. bro your watch is beautiful maybe next yr ill buy this watch also you have. my wife got mad but i bought her the white gold with diamonds constellation 35mm and she loved it. now i gotta recharge my wallet but u get more compliments and value technology than rolex.

[@DeeKay1911]

Stunning piece! I have had the 3861 Sapphire sandwich for a month now and with my 214270 it’s perfect two-watch-collection!

[@mikec3454]

If you lift up the flat part of the presentation box, the inner piece comes out and serves as a travel pouch too. It’s genius. The 1861 packaging was absurdly large..

[@khanhvu1200]

Great video! I have saved it into my "Watches" playlist so I can re-watch at home after work more closely. The speedy 3861 is my dream grail watch too. I aim to be able to purchase it for my big 30th 3 years later from now! :)

[@horologyproject]

Happy to hear you enjoyed it! That’s a great goal! I can’t recommend the watch enough. I wish you well on making it happen! Thanks again for watching.

[@khanhvu1200]

No worries! Looking forward to your review on this one :)

[@geno816]

Rooting for you to get it!! Will be an amazing 30th birthday.

[@khanhvu1200]

@@geno816 thanks very much I will surely working hard for one :)

[@carlgouder]

Loved the conversation with the AD. Seems like a great service from Omega! Hope you’re still enjoying your Speedy!

[@horologyproject]

Very much so! I love it

[@akt1982]

I just bought my Speedy sandwich from Hyde Park at cherry creek tonight, I actually spoke with the same salesman that’s in the video, he was very knowledgeable.

[@horologyproject]

Very cool.

[@mattydomingo]

does Hyde Park negotiate price, i have visited and they come across as a snooty “retail price only” shop.

[@akt1982]

@@mattydomingo honestly, the speedy was my first luxury watch and I didn’t even attempt to negotiate a lower price. At the Omega boutique they weren’t snooty. The SA in this video was very knowledgeable. However, I got a bit more of a cold shoulder from the SAs in the Rolex boutique. To be honest, I started going to Boulder. There’s an AD called Walters and Hogsett, and I’ve been working with a sales associate named Lanie. She’s been absolutely incredible, helped me to get a Tudor Chronograph, panda dial that I wanted. She’s also helping me get a GMT ii. I know Boulder is a little bit of drive, but the service is top notch, and Lanie is so personable.

[@mattydomingo]

@@akt1982 thanks for the detailed reply! love the Tudor panda, i have a Tudor GMT pepsi because a Rolex GMTs are hard to come by. i have enjoyed buying at Ben Bridge in Lonetree, they are a Rolex/Tudor AD.

[@akt1982]

@@mattydomingo I have the Tudor GMT as well. If I had to only keep one watch, I’d keep it. I love it.

[@williamotto2725]

Did they have to remove links? Thanks. Great review

[@horologyproject]

Yes. It comes huge with all the links in it. I would need gorilla wrist

[@alanalbright69]

About to grab one myself…any discounts?

[@horologyproject]

It doesn't hurt to ask, but I don't think big discounts are as much common.

[@skysurfer7856]

What an outstanding watch! Thank you for sharing your buying experience. Enjoyed it so much!

[@horologyproject]

My pleasure! Thank you for watching.

[@JP-lf6zl]

I was in your position two weeks ago... wearing my new 3861 Saphire Sandwich and loving it!

[@horologyproject]

Congrats! I really think the sapphire on the 3861 is a fantastic choice.

[@davem.2788]

“Is the prettiness of the movement enough to not be a purist.” Compelling statement. I prefer to be able to see the movement. Note: the bracelet IS a game changer. Completely changes the look of the entire presentation. Absolutely love the new bracelet. “A more elegant solution.” Sapphire is a great choice!

[@mototebbs209]

I picked up a 3510.50 reduced in excellent condition recently. My grail watch is still this particular 3861 , given the bracelet and the obvious fact its a professional. However Im currently saving to purchase my first home so it doesn't make sense to drop the 6500 at this moment. As much as I would like to get the 3861 soon, I almost want to wait for a moment in my life where it would make sense financially as well as be at a point in my life where I can connect the purchase to some sort of achievement, a reward if you will. for now I will enjoy the reduced, as its styling is extremely similar to the professional and at the end of a day, it will always be my first luxury watch and still an Omega nonetheless. Also I'd like to note that this new updated bracelet on the 3861 is similar to the presidential style bracelet on the 3510.50, minus the polished centers of the reduced bracelet. the previous oyster style bracelet does not fit well with the case of the Speedmaster in my opinion.

[@horologyproject]

Those are all understandable reasons. I hope you get to pull the trigger on it soon. I plan to come out with more videos again. I hope you stick around!

[@ryanfiser1571]

Thanks for sharing that AD experience! That’s something I haven’t seen before. I love my sapphire sandwich. I’ve had it about two weeks now. My Globemaster is also spectacular. Such beautiful pieces.

[@freegibran]

Thanks for taking us on this journey, it was pretty cool to watch. Even better knowing I have the same watch… I purchased a Breitling for my brother as a Christmas present and wish I’d recorded it.

[@horologyproject]

Very kind of you! I have some more videos on the way!

[@alien6551]

I just bought this watch. I love it. Purists are not like there ever going to the moon lol

[@omax1023]

Great choice, looking at the movement never gets old for me! The Oh shit factor when my friends do a double take on the display case back, and the words that follow are.... What the hell!!! lol

[@horologyproject]

Haha. That’s a good way of putting it!

[@grundmanator]

Congrats - beautiful watch. I also am planning to get this watch soon and am curious what your thoughts are on this watch paired with your BB58 (I have a BB58, as well).

[@horologyproject]

I’ve gotten rid of my bb58 black, but have the bb58 in blue. It’s a great pairing, imho. Right now my line up is Exp II, Speedy, and BB58. Do you have a 58 in your collection?

[@rmthull]

I went sapphire and kinda wish I went hesalite. Although I like having a face that is very tough especially as it’s my daily. But the sapphire on the back really isn’t all that for me. While it’s nice to see the movement my eyesight means I really struggle to see it operating anyway. I think I made the right choice though.

[@horologyproject]

I switched to Hesalite. I’m loving it

[@DESCENDINGDR]

Good choice. I bought the same piece about 2 months ago. Went to the AD to look at another watch (a Tudor- a brand which I have and like) and didn't care for it. The salesman brought out the 3861 and I thought the same as you did- the bracelet makes this watch! Couldn't pass it up, and it hacks too! I've really enjoyed it so far.

[@horologyproject]

I thought I’d regret letting go of my 1861, but I really love the 3861 much more. Now if they could just make an adjustable clasp

[@DESCENDINGDR]

Yes, that’s just about all it needs to be the perfect Speedmaster. Seems like it would be easy enough to do, don’t you think?

[@jermanoid]

Mechanical watches are timeless. I like the idea of having time pieces that would still work if civilization collapsed.

[@stevensteven3417]

Get a solar, its also more accurate after months or even years.

[@PyroClit]

I am in the process of buying a speedy. The white ring is a huge turn off. Hard decision to make.

[@horologyproject]

I never notice it

[@UWI-Anna]

Just got the hesalite version for a price I cant resist. Beautiful piece! Cant wait.

[@horologyproject]

Hope you enjoy it! The Speedmaster is still such great value for money. There was a time when you could buy one for around $3k, but they are still worth it even in their current prices. I'm finally creating content again. I hope you stick around. :)

[@Mega-zi7ys]

Hesalite more beautiful

[@horologyproject]

I do miss the hesalite. It's a beauty. Thanks for watching!

[@toddpacker7058]

Chose this over the new 36mm explorer….however, if I get the call from the AD for the explorer still gotta pick it up, cause “shortage”

[@horologyproject]

I’d do the same

[@frankdux6930]

I really found a love for omega even after a couple rolexes in my set. Mainly because rolex ADs are pricks. Now own two omegas, including 2023 speedy sapphire. But I'll say this. Ill Never buy an omega at an AD, for risk of taking a massive bath. Carefully sourced, pre-owned only way to go.

[@Antonio-tj9gc]

This will be mine too one day :,)

[@horologyproject]

Keep grinding!

[@tricky92x]

I guess I'm a "purist" but I also don't like polished center links... so, went for the hesalite version of the 3861. It's the centerpiece of my collection, overshadowing a brand new Submariner.

[@johnmoran257]

The sapphire sandwich is the way to go once you see that movement you cannot want to cover it. Understand the purist but as you said it stuns friends that don't get mechanical watches

[@horologyproject]

I love it

[@Mega-zi7ys]

I have el primero see thru caseback even more beautiful movement.with column wheel..u can see the column wheel . Yet it's only a novelty for the 1st week. After that you're just wiping smudges off the back crystal . Solid caseback for the speedmaster professional makes it faithful to being a tool watch. I love the solid caseback. Anyway to each his own.

[@chrisselders3548]

Great choice! I hope to add one to my collection someday.

[@horologyproject]

It lives up to the hype. I’ve owned one for years and can’t imagine not having a speedy. I wish prices were lower. I was fortunate to get my 1861 below $3,000 several years ago.

[@explorerjlc1743]

the biggest issue with the sapphire is the milky ring it creates around the edge. Changes the look of the moonwatch.

[@jamesvroom7486]

I just got the hesalite version a couple of weeks ago! One question, how does yours wind? Mine winds with a bit of resistance. I'm told that it will loosen up over time. Has this been your experience?

[@KallMeKG]

Needs to be broken in a bit I think

[@horologyproject]

I owned the 1861, so maybe I’m already use to the resistance m, but it winds nicely to me. My automatics like my tudor feel less resistant when winding. The architecture of the speedy movement is still classic, so it’s likely due to it being somewhat older technology even though it’s been updated. That’s just my guess.

[@jamesvroom7486]

@@horologyproject thank you! Other than the winding action, I love my new Speedy!

[@christianhardwick6530]

No, I would go with the hesalite no one’s looking at the underneath of your watch.

[@suicunecx2526]

Except for ones hypothetical self, if you are into that sort of thing. As they say; Buy the watch to impressive yourself, not others. :)

[@horologyproject]

Having already owned the Hesalite, I’m glad I got the sapphire.

[@Mega-zi7ys]

It's a 1 week novelty. After that you're no longer looking at it. I have an el primero column wheel Chrono with clear caseback much more beautiful bec u see the column wheel actuated when starting the chrono. Yet the novelty lasted only 1 week. I no longer look at the movement now. Hesalite+ solid caseback makes it true to being a tool watch. More industrial look. Loving it.

[@falcon81701]

I bought one yesterday. Amazing watch and it fits ways nicer than I expected

[@tacomn]

How many links did they leave on both sides of the bracelet?

[@vincentmok4628]

Casio AE1200! I wore the same watch to an Omega store to try a 3861 the other day too

[@yashara1e]

Enjoy the watch in good health

[@horologyproject]

I appreciate it!!! It’s an amazing watch and a lifetime piece.

[@yashara1e]

@@horologyproject agree, its in my wishlist too

[@bradstill7414]

have the same coming in a few days CANT WAIT

[@albertofourie3294]

I've changed out the bracelet for the flatlink + retro logo which comes with the 50th anniversary Speedy. It's stunning and elevates the watch to a different level.

[@ndragos87]

great watch i have one, noticed a pretty big dent close to the start/stop pusher

[@etjan555]

Be responsible.....eyes on road.....

[@ayrtonnathan6830]

did you get a discount? how much?

[@mikec3454]

That salesman was a nice dude but man he talks a lot haha… sometimes in sales you just want need to be quiet. There’s a quote I read in a book on sales, “let silence do the heavy lifting”. You could tell you were thinking about things to make your decision but he just kept going on and on! Lol Congrats! I own the Hesalite 3861, absolutely stunning. I’ve owned a few 1861 Pros in the past and the 3861 is definitely the best Speedy imo.

[@horologyproject]

In fairness to him, he knew I was coming in, and we just wanted to talk watches for the video.

[@Roberto68n]

Buy whichever watch you want, just keep that car!!!!!!! I would had made the exact two choices: keep the car and go with the sapphire sandwich, the bracelet has a lot to do with it. I would recommend to move links from one side to the other so the buckle sits more centered under your wrist. Thanks for sharing that awesome experience!

[@horologyproject]

Man...sorry I missed this comment. I loved my Wrangler TJ. It was my favorite iteration. Sadly, I had to let it go. We welcomed another little one into the family, and it was time. No regrets, though. I'm sure I'll own another Wrangler in the future. I have more videos coming out. Thanks for watching!

[@impoautosguatemala9847]

It is a gorgeous watch.

[@IdeaCalledFreedom]

Sapphire is the right choice, it retains a very classic appearance and it’s 100x the watch. This one will outlast the hesalite version

[@Mega-zi7ys]

Hesalite is more beautiful. There's no "right" choice. Because each person has a different set of perspective and usage.

[@horologyproject]

Having gone with Hesalite, I was glad I got it out of my "system." I prefer this model in the sapphire, but you can't go wrong with either. It's great that there are options that can fit people's personalities.

[@antonmarkov1635]

You mentioned how you’ll pass this watch down to your son and it dawned on me that he would probably be able to watch this video too. That next generation will have so much photos and videos of us.

[@horologyproject]

That’s one of the reasons I filmed it all. Agreed.

[@luxuryfood3810]

How are the scratches on the Cristal? That's my biggest worry about this watch.

[@horologyproject]

It’s sapphire so none existent. The Hesalite is another story, but just buy some polywatch

[@AndrewL31413]

Would it be expensive to replace the hesalite crystal?

[@geoffreyhardin580]

The hesalite is replaced during a full service from Omega. Its not an expensive replacement when done on its own.

[@floood87]

excellent choice. movement deserves the saphwich!

[@horologyproject]

Agreed! Thanks for watching. I plan to come out with more videos again.

[@joaquinbarreto9398]

Gorgeous and congrats. I'll be picking mine up in a few months.

[@horologyproject]

You’ll love it!

[@martinwilliams9098]

What’s the small omega box was that for another watch or a travel watch case?

[@horologyproject]

Travel case

[@albundy3929]

did omega update the 3861 with the adjustable clasp?

[@southpark6757]

They did. Any Speedmaster pro made in 2023 should have the new adjustable clasp. It only has two positions. But retailers are probably still trying to sell you the older clasp to get rid of "old" stock

[@albundy3929]

@@southpark6757 good info. Got to make sure that buyers are getting the newer clasp when shopping these days.

[@chadclark2684]

Yikes, on your video there’s a fairly noticeable ding in the edge near a pusher! To me, no bueno (I know mass produced), but I’d swap it!!

[@horologyproject]

Hmmm... Maybe it was a piece of dust. I just looked at it again, and no dings.

[@derhendrik89]

I think I see it too: time stamp 6:09 - 6:14 ?

[@ericjahn9824]

Thanks for this great video. 👍🏻

[@horologyproject]

Any time. More to come

[@paulthompson9062]

Am I the only one that prefers the bracelet on the 1863? It just feels more solid.

[@Mega-zi7ys]

I couldn't wear it Bec it was too big for me.. so went for the racing series 40mm instead.. luckily after waiting 3yrs Omega finally came out with shortened lugs + tapered bracelet... I immediately got 1 Bec finally after 20yrs the speedmaster professional can fit my wrist 😄 Am so glad! The new bracelet is Very fluid , very comfortable.

[@horologyproject]

It's a nice bracelet, But at 53mm accross the wrist, it didn't fit me well.

[@ericjahn9824]

What is your wrist size?

[@horologyproject]

6.5”

[@Coreal07]

No way! I just stumbled on this video and I'm picking up my sapphire sandwich from Geoff and Paulina tomorrow! I'm so excited I can't sleep.

[@horologyproject]

I'm late to this post, but that's awesome! I plan to come out with more videos again. I hope you stick around!

[@Coreal07]

@@horologyproject I'll give you a follow. Hit me up if you're ever around Cherry Creek and want to geek out!

[@horologyproject]

@@Coreal07 I appreciate the follow. I’m always up to talk watches. 🙂

[@stickmanbw]

What's the state tax in Colorado

[@horologyproject]

It varies depending on the county, but I think this purchase was around 7% or so.

[@roboadvisor3598]

The music 😔

[@horologyproject]

Sorry 😞

[@Kostja81]

The milky ring... is not my taste. It cant be unseen 😅 I get your choice. Also regarding the guy in the shop. The 3861 is a metas tested calibre. To say that it's probably a better timekeeper than the 321 is understatement of the year. It IS a better timekeeper period. Dios de madre do your homework before you sell watches. Also you CAN get a 321 it is way expensive and not a chronometer! Waiting list (in EU) is about a year +/- This guy might me nice but his knowledge is a bit underwhelming.

[@horologyproject]

I don't see the ring any more, but I hear you!

[@arkawiproductions3888]

Cheap salesman talk in the store.

[@edwinvandenbrande7944]

Fantastic watch but indeed there is fairly noticable ding in the case...

[@swallowtailnerd1986]

I always thought I’d buy the hesalite when it came time but when I tried on the 3861 sapphire sandwich it changed things. I haven’t pulled the trigger just yet, wondering if the milky ring has detracted from it? It’s the one sticking point for me personally

[@johnmoran257]

I've had my 3861 sapphire for two weeks now it's not bad at all and the ability to look at the movement in the back is worth the slight trade off

[@albertofourie3294]

I've got both... hesalite all the way!

[@jvalerio629]

You’ll never see the case back if you actually wear your watch. You will see the milky ring every time you look at it. Hesalite all the way.

[@horologyproject]

I never notice it to be honest. The Hesalite is cool too. But some times I would leave it at home just because I didn’t want to deal with the inevitable scratches. I’m glad I went with the sapphire the second time around.

[@Mega-zi7ys]

@@jvalerio629 caseback of the hesalite is actually beautiful. And much more industrial tool watch feel.

[@Honraxxx]

On your wrist which watch do you think wear best of the SMP, the new Speedy or Tudor BB 58?

[@horologyproject]

Tough question. Bb58 probably best for size, but the speedy is my fav of the three and wears really well. Lug to lug is roughly the same.