Omega Railmaster Baselworld 2017 Review

KMII · 2018-03-04T09:43:47Z

KMII reviews the Omega Railmaster (Baselworld 2017), comparing dial and strap options, and explaining why the regular production model is his top choice.

KMII

WPS member · Omega forum

29 replies3241 views2 photos

KMII shares his journey to acquiring his first Omega, focusing on the regular production Railmaster introduced at Baselworld 2017. He details his preference for the dark dial and cloth strap variant over the silver dial and even the Trilogy re-edition, highlighting its proportions and Master Chronometer certification.

Some time ago Nilo and I entered into a gentlemen’s agreement - a Montblanc for him and an Omega for me. While he has already fulfilled his end of the bargain, I have done so only partially - by getting a Speedmaster for my father. So still an Omega left for me.

While the CK2998 has called to me, on pictures it was a Baselworld 2017 that I found truly appealing - namely the regular production Railmaster. Unlike some Omega pieces that have been in Boutiques within days of being presented, this one took the best part of a year. I managed to see the silver dial, tan strap version a while ago but only got to see the dark dial cloth strap one recently.

It was the latter (above) that now seems like the front runner to become my first Omega. I find the proportions spot on, the Master Chronometer certification is an added bonus and the strap / dial combination is great in my eyes.

While the silver dial has appeal, too, and I generally love toffee coloured straps the leather NATO makes it ride too high on my wrist.

Also tried the Trilogy Railmaster and even if this may be blasphemous, found it less convincing than its regular production sibling. It may be a superb re-edition, as close to the original as is possible to get, still I found the shiny topside finish not quite as much to my liking as the brushed one of the regular version (which is excellently complemented by the vertical brushing of the dial).

So a short while longer, and I am about to fulfill my part of the bargain, Nilo

Not that it will necessarily be the last. If there appears a non-date Venice Edition Seamaster (like the Olympic ones in gold and platinum) in steel, I am most certainly in, too

About the Omega Speedmaster Ref. CK2998

The Omega CK2998 is a chronograph model recognized for its robust design and functional aesthetic. It belongs to a lineage of chronographs that established a distinct visual identity for the brand, characterized by a clear and legible dial layout. This reference is notable for its early adoption of a tachymeter scale on the bezel, a feature that would become a hallmark of many subsequent sports chronographs.

This reference features a 39 mm stainless steel case, housing the manual-winding Caliber 321. This movement provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The watch is fitted with a Hesalite crystal and offers a water resistance of 60 meters. The fixed tachymeter bezel is a key design element, framing a black dial.

The CK2998 holds interest for collectors seeking early examples of Omega's chronograph development. Its design elements, including the case proportions and dial configuration, represent a significant period in the brand's history. The presence of the Caliber 321 further enhances its appeal among enthusiasts of vintage chronograph movements.

Specifications

Caliber: 321

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 39 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 60m

Crystal: Hesalite

Key Points from the Discussion

The 40mm Railmaster is praised for its cool dial, hands, crown, modern movement, and affordability.
The author clarifies that the prominent crown in photos is for display purposes, setting the time to 10:08, and would be less noticeable during normal operation.
The Railmaster is noted for its under-the-radar appeal, a characteristic expected to continue based on previous models.
The aged-looking lume on the dark dial version is considered more coherent by the author.
A community member agrees with the preference for brushed over polished finishes and encourages the author to proceed with the purchase.

The Discussion

Thomas_3

Mar 4, 2018

is it just not screwed down all the way, or is that the normal position for that watch??

TheMadDruid

Mar 4, 2018

More contrast, perhaps. And brushed over polished-I agree. Not going to tell you to go for it (go for it). No Vlad me.

mj23

Mar 4, 2018

Hope you enter Omega world soon!

zabreg1 Mr White

Mar 4, 2018

The dark dial is understated, yet cool. I had it on recently and really liked it.

KMII

Mar 4, 2018

So as to display the time at 8 past 10. When pushed in for normal operation it would not be as prominent

KMII

Mar 4, 2018

I guess I may just go for it, then

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About the Omega Speedmaster Ref. CK2998

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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