The Omega Speedmaster Professional: A Timeless Classic and a Target for Counterfeiters The Omega Speedmaster Professional\, often affectionately called the "Moonwatch\," holds a legendary status in the world of horology. Its iconic design\, rich history\, and association with space exploration have cemented its place as a coveted timepiece for collectors and enthusiasts alike. However\, this very popularity has also made it a prime target for counterfeiters. Identifying a fake Omega Speedmaster Professional "broad arrow"\, a specific variant featuring a distinctive hand shape\, requires careful scrutiny and a thorough understanding of its genuine features. This article will delve into the world of Omega Speedmaster Professional fake watches\, providing a comprehensive guide to help you spot counterfeits and safeguard yourself from falling victim to fraudulent purchases. The Allure of the Omega Speedmaster Professional "Broad Arrow" The "broad arrow" designation refers to the unique shape of the hour and minute hands on certain Speedmaster Professional models. These hands\, with their flat\, pointed ends resembling broad arrows\, were introduced in 1968 and were a defining feature of the Speedmaster for several years. The "broad arrow" Speedmaster is highly sought-after by collectors\, and this demand has fuelled the production of numerous fakes. These counterfeits range from crude imitations to surprisingly sophisticated replicas that can be difficult to distinguish from the real deal. Why You Need to Be Vigilant: The Rise of Fake Watches The rise of e-commerce and online marketplaces has made it easier than ever to buy and sell watches. Unfortunately\, this has also provided a breeding ground for counterfeiters. Here are some key reasons why you need to be extra cautious when buying an Omega Speedmaster Professional: High Value: The Speedmaster Professional holds a significant value in the watch market\, making it a lucrative target for counterfeiters. Brand Recognition: Omega is a renowned luxury brand\, and its name is synonymous with quality and prestige. Counterfeiters often exploit this recognition to trick unsuspecting buyers. Complexity: The Speedmaster Professional is a mechanically complex watch\, and replicating all its intricacies can be a costly endeavor for counterfeiters. This can lead to inconsistencies in the watch's functionality and overall quality. Spotting a Fake Omega Speedmaster Professional "Broad Arrow": A Detailed Guide Identifying a fake Omega Speedmaster Professional "broad arrow" requires a keen eye and a good understanding of its genuine features. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you separate the authentic from the imitation: 1. Examine the Case and Bezel: Case Material: The genuine Speedmaster Professional is typically crafted from stainless steel\, and the case back should have a distinctive Omega inscription. Fake watches often use inferior metal\, and their engravings might appear blurry or misaligned. Case Size and Dimensions: The Speedmaster Professional has specific dimensions\, including a case size of 42mm and a lug width of 20mm. Check the watch's measurements carefully; any discrepancies could indicate a counterfeit. Bezel: The bezel of a genuine Speedmaster Professional is a tachymeter\, which measures speed. The tachymeter markings on a fake watch might be inaccurate or poorly printed. Crown: The crown of a genuine Speedmaster Professional is usually signed with the Omega logo. Fake watches often use a generic crown without this detail. 2. Analyze the Dial and Hands: Dial Color and Finish: The original "broad arrow" Speedmaster dials were typically black with contrasting white markings. Fake dials often have poor color saturation\, faded markings\, or uneven printing. Lume: The luminous material used on the hands and markers of a genuine Speedmaster Professional should glow brightly and consistently in the dark. Fake lume often appears dim and uneven. Hands: As mentioned earlier\, the "broad arrow" Speedmaster features distinctive flat\, pointed hands. Fake watches often have slightly different hand shapes\, or the hands might be misaligned or poorly balanced. Subdials: The Speedmaster Professional features three subdials: a chronograph second counter\, a 30-minute chronograph counter\, and a 12-hour chronograph counter. These subdials on a genuine watch should have precise markings and proper alignment. 3. Scrutinize the Movement and Crystal: Movement: The Speedmaster Professional is powered by a manually wound mechanical movement. Look for the movement's caliber number engraved on the back plate. Fake watches often use cheaper movements\, and their caliber numbers might be incorrect or missing. Crystal: The Speedmaster Professional has a Hesalite crystal\, which is known for its durability and resistance to scratches. Examine the crystal for imperfections\, bubbles\, or inconsistencies. Fake watches often use inferior crystal materials that are prone to scratching and distortion. 4. Inspect the Strap and Buckle: Strap Material: Genuine Speedmaster Professional straps are typically made from high-quality leather or stainless steel. Fake straps often use cheaper materials and poor stitching. Buckle: The buckle of a genuine Speedmaster Professional is usually engraved with the Omega logo. Fake buckles might have missing or incorrect markings. Strap Length: The strap length of a genuine Speedmaster Professional is specific to each model. Check the strap's length against the manufacturer's specifications. 5. Check for Authentication Documents and Packaging: Certificate of Authenticity: A genuine Speedmaster Professional should come with a certificate of authenticity that includes the watch's serial number and model details. Box and Papers: The watch should be presented in a genuine Omega box with all the necessary documents\, including instructions and warranty information. 6. Consult with Experts: If you are still unsure about the authenticity of a Speedmaster Professional\, it is always best to consult with a trusted watch dealer or an independent watchmaker. They have the expertise and resources to properly evaluate the watch and determine its legitimacy. The Risks of Buying a Fake Omega Speedmaster Professional Buying a fake Omega Speedmaster Professional comes with several risks: Financial Loss: You are essentially wasting your money on an imitation that holds no real value. Legal Consequences: In some countries\, buying or selling counterfeit goods is illegal and can result in fines or even imprisonment. Damaged Reputation: Owning a fake watch can damage your reputation and make you seem like a gullible buyer. Protecting Yourself from Counterfeits Buy from Reputable Dealers: Only purchase a Speedmaster Professional from authorized retailers or reputable dealers with a history of selling genuine watches. Ask for Documentation: Request a certificate of authenticity and all relevant paperwork before purchasing a watch. Be Skeptical of Bargain Prices: If a deal seems too good to be true\, it probably is. Counterfeiters often offer watches at significantly discounted prices to lure unsuspecting buyers. Research Thoroughly: Spend time researching the Speedmaster Professional and familiarizing yourself with its genuine features. FAQ: Answering Your Questions about Fake Speedmaster Professionals 1. Can a fake Speedmaster Professional ever be as good as the real thing? No\, a fake watch can never be as good as a genuine Speedmaster Professional. The quality of materials\, craftsmanship\, and movement in a genuine watch is far superior to anything a counterfeit can offer. 2. Are there any legitimate websites selling "replica" Speedmaster Professionals? Legitimate retailers do not sell replicas. If a website claims to sell "replica" Speedmaster Professionals\, it is likely a site selling counterfeit watches. 3. How can I get my fake Speedmaster Professional authenticated? You can take your watch to an authorized Omega service center or a reputable watch dealer for authentication. They can assess its authenticity and provide you with a written report. 4. What should I do if I have already purchased a fake Speedmaster Professional? Contact the seller immediately and demand a refund. If you have purchased the watch online\, report the seller to the platform where you made the purchase. 5. Is it legal to own a fake Speedmaster Professional? Owning a fake watch is not always illegal\, but selling or distributing counterfeits is typically against the law. Conclusion: Investing in Authenticity The Omega Speedmaster Professional "broad arrow" is a timeless classic that has earned its place in the annals of horological history. Investing in a genuine Speedmaster Professional means investing in a piece of history and owning a watch that will appreciate in value over time. By taking the necessary precautions and being vigilant about potential counterfeits\, you can ensure that your investment is genuine and your ownership of this iconic timepiece is a source of pride\, not regret. Remember\, choosing authenticity over a cheap imitation is a wise decision that will safeguard your investment and ensure that you own a genuine piece of watchmaking history. References: [Omega Official Website](https://www.omegawatches.com/) [Omega Speedmaster Professional "Broad Arrow" Guide](https://www.watchuseek.com/f2/omega-speedmaster-professional-broad-arrow-guide-580679.html) [Hodinkee: Spotting a Fake Speedmaster](https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/spotting-a-fake-omega-speedmaster-professional)