Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 vs Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph

In-Depth Comparison

The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 and the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Nomos and Omega are both highly respected names in watchmaking. The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 comes from Germany, while the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph originates from Switzerland. This particular Zürich reference was introduced in 2014, while this Speedmaster reference debuted in 2017. The Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 beats the Nomos DUW 5201 caliber offering a 42-hour power reserve running at 21,600 vph with 33 jewels. The Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph is powered by the Omega 3330 with a 52-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 26 jewels. The Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph wins on power reserve with a 10-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 features a 39.9mm case at 10.9mm thick with a 48.5mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph comes in at 38.0mm and 14.7mm thick with 43.5mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. The Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 56g, the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 uses a Sapphire crystal crystal paired with a Fixed polished bezel, while the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph features Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Fixed, stainless steel with tachymeter bezel. On the wrist, the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 comes on a Horween genuine Shell Cordovan leather strap with Pin buckle, while the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph is fitted with Stainless steel bracelet featuring Folding clasp with pushers.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph to 100m / 328ft. For water sports and diving, the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph provides superior depth capability.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 lists for $5,580 compared to $5,600 for the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph. On the secondary market, the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 trades around $4,600 while the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph commands approximately $3,800.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Nomos Zürich Weltzeit Ref. 805 and the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial Chronograph is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.