Among fans of Formula One, the name Michael Schumacher is spoken in hushed, reverent tones, for it belongs to a man who, even in this modern age of hyperbole, can rightfully be called a racing legend and, perhaps, the greatest driver of all time. Active from 1991 to 2006 and again from 2010 to 2012, the German driver won seven Formula One (F1) World Championships, holds the record for most victories (91), and in 2002 became the only driver in F1 history to finish in the top three in every race in a season (breaking the record for most consecutive podium finishes concurrently), among other accomplishments. It is unsurprising, therefore, that he was approached by Omega to become a brand ambassador for the Swiss watchmaker, lending his name and influence to a series of special editions of their iconic Speedmaster lineup. Though no longer produced, fans of the series will find that on the second-hand market, these watches represent excellent value compared to other lines of used Omega Speedmaster watches and are an excellent way to combine two passions into one: racing and watches.
In 1996, the first version of the Omega Speedmaster Schumacher was revealed by Mr. Schumacher at his go-kart track in Kerpen, Germany. It came with a choice of either a red or yellow dial (celebrating Mr. Schumacher’s first year driving for Ferrari) and a choice of either a red or yellow leather strap or stainless steel bracelet Omega fake watches UK. The production ran from 1996 to 1999, and though the case itself did not bear the name “Schumacher,” there were a number of unique items included with the watch that marked it out as something unique. The watch came packaged in a small rubber tire that could be pulled apart, splitting at the middle to reveal the watch. On the right side of the tire was Mr. Schumacher’s signature and on the left were Omega brand markings. Included was a small stand that prevented the whole get-up from literally rolling away from the owner. It had a hesalite crystal, snap-on back, and featured an automatic 1141 movement. The case measured 42mm with the crown and 39mm without (this sizing remains consistent throughout the editions). Interestingly, the movement’s serial number was stamped on the outside of the rear cover and not on the movement itself.
Following the first Omega Speedmaster Schumacher replica watches came the Omega Speedmaster Racing Schumacher World Champion 2000 Limited Edition. This watch was numbered and limited to 10,000 pieces, of which 6,000 had a black dial and 4,000 had a white dial. The watch featured the word “Racing” above the sub-dial at the six o’clock position and had red and orange checkered markings around the outside of the dial. It too had a snapback case but, unlike the previous edition, did bear Mr. Schumacher’s name, which was engraved into the back of the case along with his signature and the production number. It came with an option of either a stainless steel bracelet or black leather strap and had an Omega 3220 movement.
