@speedybirthyear shares four looks for his Omega Speedmaster Ultraman: Alcantara® in Anthrazit and Travertine, black pigskin and orange French-Style Cowhide.
The Speedmaster series is notorious for its variety of special editions, rare birds and unusual models. This Ultraman (Speedy Tuesday 2) from 2018 is something of a self-reference. It nods to the Ultraman from 1968, which earned its nickname among collectors after appearing in a close-up in the Japanese TV show “The Return of Ultraman” in 1971. Its distinctive feature was an ultra-long, vivid orange chronograph seconds hand.
The Speedmaster superfans at Fratello created this limited edition with Omega. It echoes the original while adding a few more quirky orange details and an Easter egg: Ultraman’s face, visible on a subdial only under UV light. The creamy lume enhances the vintage feel.
1. Alcantara® “Anthrazit”
We’re starting with what appears to be a safe, and possibly even boring, choice. Well, let me tell you, it isn’t. It all comes down to the stitching. Its greyish sheen against the anthracite base tone works extremely well with a stainless-steel case. Like the one on this Ultraman – or any other Moonwatch, for that matter.
Grey stitching and anthracite complement the cool tones of the steel case.
2. Pigskin “9 to 5”
This strap might look too dressy at first glance, given how supple and slim it feels. But it works a charm on the Ultraman, and probably on almost every Speedmaster. I put that down to its somewhat more robust texture, which gives it enough presence to match the Speedy’s tool-watch character.
Black pigskin combines an elegant look with a distinctive texture.
3. Alcantara® “Travertine”
This one matches the character of the limited edition so well. Why? It picks up the colour of the indices, which some call “fauxtina”. That detail harks back to the original vintage Ultraman from 1968. I prefer to call it vintage charm – or, more simply, a little extra warmth. The perfect combination on a sunny day, or with a sand-coloured outfit.
Travertine’s warm sandy tone complements the creamy lume.
4. French-Style Cowhide “Ecstasy”
As a native Dutchman, orange naturally works well with me – pun intended. It also matches the orange hand and details of this Ultraman Limited Edition perfectly. It might look a little out there, and I’m not denying it. Still, it works on many occasions and makes the Ultraman just a little more special.
Orange carries the Ultraman’s signature accents onto the wrist.
Which is my favourite of the bunch? I cannot decide. It depends on the occasion. There’s a reason I bought all four straps – and I’m not even sponsored!