Omega brings back railmaster with improved properties

From railway to wrist: omega's anti-magnetic icon makes a gradient-dial comeback

By Andrew McGrotty Published May 15, 2025

Omega railmaster — Omega

Omega has brought back its Railmaster collection. The new models combine a design that evokes earlier times with up-to-date watchmaking technology. The latest versions feature color gradient dials. The clean, functional appearance that defined the Railmaster since its 1957 debut continues.

As part of Omega’s “professional line,” the Railmaster was first introduced alongside the Speedmaster and Seamaster 300. These three timepieces were created for specialists in different fields: the Speedmaster for racing drivers, the Seamaster for divers, and the Railmaster specifically for railway workers, engineers, and scientists-people who worked in environments with strong magnetic fields.

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The original Railmaster stood out for its anti-magnetic capabilities. A specialized inner case provided protection against magnetic fields up to 1,000 gauss, far exceeding the typical 60 gauss resistance from competitors at the time. Because of this, it served as an important tool for professionals working around railways and industrial equipment.

The 2025 Railmaster revival continues this tradition while significantly improving anti-magnetic performance. The new models use Omega’s co-axial Master Chronometer calibres (8806 and 8804 for the small seconds version), which can withstand magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss-fifteen times more than the original models. These movements are certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS), representing the industry’s highest standard.

The revived collection includes two 38mm stainless steel models. One features a grey dial with a black gradient and a minimalist look. Only the Omega logo and Railmaster name appear on the clean dial. Large indexes and numerals in white Super-LumiNova ensure excellent readability.

The second variant offers a beige dial with a black gradient and a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, a feature that appeared on the 2004 Railmaster. Vintage-colored Super-LumiNova is used for its markers and numerals, giving it a retro character.

The watches are available with either leather straps (black for the grey dial, golden brown Novonappa for the beige dial) or stainless steel bracelets. The bracelets have redesigned links, improved integration with the case, and an easy comfort adjustment system.

In terms of appearance, the new Railmaster models align with Omega’s Seamaster Aqua Terra collection. Since 2003, this design approach has connected the collections. The cases and bracelets combine polished and brushed surfaces, creating an interplay of finishes that catches the eye.

With this revival, Omega maintains the Railmaster’s working-class heritage while enhancing its performance and appeal for today’s watch enthusiasts.

Andrew McGrotty

Andrew is a full-time freelance writer with expertise in the luxury sector. His content is informative and always on trend.

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Fashion & Style

Hublot launches Big Bang Unico Summer 2025 in orange ceramic

Summer vibes: Hublot's orange ceramic big bang unico evokes sunset and ocean waves

Hublot big bang summer range

Hublot introduces the Big Bang Unico Summer 2025, a limited edition of 100 watches. It features a micro-blasted orange ceramic case and a sky-blue bezel, evoking the look of summer light on the sea. Priced at $31,300, the watch highlights Hublot’s expertise in coloring high-tech ceramics and its innovative strap systems.
The orange ceramic case represents a significant manufacturing achievement, requiring precise temperature control and material blends to achieve its deep, golden sunset-like color. Drawing on two decades of ceramic expertise, Hublot uses zirconium-based compounds baked at high temperatures to create scratch-resistant cases with vibrant colors.
Measuring 42mm across and 14.5mm thick, the watch maintains the bold yet wearable proportions typical of the Big Bang line. The micro-blasted finish gives texture to the bright orange case, while the sky-blue ceramic bezel offers a striking contrast. Six H-shaped titanium screws secure the bezel, emphasizing the watch’s structural design. Two dark blue case elements, with matching screws, complete the three-color scheme.
The open dial reveals the technical details of the HUB1280 Unico Manufacture movement. White Super-LumiNova coats the Arabic numerals and hour markers, which sit above the date wheel. A yellow central chronograph seconds hand adds a fourth color. The movement’s main plate, bridges, and date wheel are dark blue, and the 60-minute subdial at 3 o’clock is sky blue.
The column wheel chronograph is visible at 6 o’clock, showcasing Hublot’s in-house movement expertise. This movement consists of 354 parts, runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour, and offers a 72-hour power reserve. It features a silicon escapement and flyback function, allowing the chronograph to be reset and restarted with a single push. The transparent case back displays the dark blue movement against the orange case.
Hublot’s One-Click system allows users to change straps easily without tools. The watch comes with three rubber straps—orange, dark blue, and sky blue, each with a white lining—enabling quick changes to suit different moods and occasions, from beach outings to formal events.
While the color combination recalls Gulf Oil’s racing cars, Hublot states that the inspiration comes from summer, not motorsports. This mix of colors is more dynamic than the single-tone 2023 Sky Blue model, demonstrating how thoughtful color pairing can elevate a design.
The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and water sports, even with the chronograph in use. Both the front and back sapphire crystals have anti-reflective coatings. Two chronograph pushers and a large crown ensure reliable operation near water.
With only 100 pieces available, the Summer 2025 edition appeals to collectors who appreciate Hublot’s mastery of materials and seasonal themes. The $31,300 price reflects the complexity of ceramic manufacturing and positions the watch among luxury sports chronographs.
This release reinforces Hublot’s commitment to bold colors and advanced materials, proving that summer inspiration can lead to serious watchmaking.

Fashion & Style

Frederique Constant unveils new Healey limited editions in pale blue

Racing heritage: Frederique constant's healey collaboration shifts to pale blue inspiration

Frederique constant's healey editions

Frederique Constant has extended its partnership with British carmaker Healey, marking two decades of collaboration. This year, two new limited editions have been introduced, departing from the traditional British Racing Green. Instead, they feature pale blue dials inspired by early 1960s Austin-Healey 3000 MKII models. Priced at €1,695 and €3,395, these timepieces continue an unusual collaboration that began in 2004.
At the heart of the partnership is a single historic vehicle: the ex-Works 1953–55 Austin-Healey 100S Special Test Car, registration NOJ393. This car competed in the World Sports Car Championship and was sold unrestored at Bonhams in 2011 for £843,000 ($1,000,000). Since then, it has been restored to its 1955 Le Mans specification.
Unlike typical automotive collaborations that focus on brand logos and color matching, Frederique Constant’s approach is different. The brand aims to capture the essence of this specific car and also supports Healey classic car rallies and community programs. Over 20 years, the partnership has produced many timepieces, most featuring the 100S’s distinctive green livery.
This year’s editions take a new aesthetic direction. The pale blue sunray dials with metallic coloring are inspired by the early 1960s Austin-Healey 3000 MKII, moving away from the traditional green to reflect the broader Austin-Healey palette while maintaining a connection to racing heritage.
The three-handed automatic variant features a curvaceous 36mm polished steel case, incorporating both Frederique Constant and Healey dial elements. Applied hour markers, including an oversized 12, are hand-polished silver with white luminous material. The bright red central seconds hand adds a sporty, dashboard-inspired touch, while the dark blue minute track flange matches the co-signing.
The chronograph edition measures 41mm and has a polished steel case with a two-counter layout. Bright red accents appear on both the central chronograph hand and the 30-minute subdial, which sits opposite the small seconds display. This color coordination visually connects to automotive instrumentation while maintaining horological function.
Both models are paired with blue leather straps and closed case backs engraved with the historic 100S. Each is limited to 1,888 pieces, emphasizing the partnership’s exclusivity while still offering reasonable availability for enthusiasts.
The automatic model costs €1,695, making it an accessible entry point into the collaboration. The chronograph is priced at €3,395, targeting collectors seeking additional complications. These price points are competitive with similar Swiss offerings and provide a sense of automotive provenance.
Frederique Constant has also reintroduced the 40mm 2023 Classics Vintage Rally Healey Automatic, featuring a steel case and British Racing Green dial. This model becomes a core collection piece, losing its limited edition status to broaden accessibility.
This partnership demonstrates how authentic collaborations can move beyond typical co-branding, emphasizing genuine community engagement and respect for automotive heritage. The result is a series of distinctive timepieces that appeal to both watch and car enthusiasts

Fashion & Style

Citizen celebrates 40 years of aqualand with limited anniversary edition

Four decades deep: Citizen's limited aqualand edition celebrates electronic depth-sensing innovation

Citizens aqualand 40 years

Citizen celebrates 40 years of underwater innovation with the Promaster Aqualand 40th Anniversary Limited Edition, a tribute to the 1985 model that introduced electronic depth meters to professional diving. This $595 limited edition retains the iconic design elements of the original while incorporating modern materials and a commitment to environmental responsibility.
The first Aqualand was a breakthrough in 1985, being the world’s first diver’s watch with an electronic depth meter. This innovation transformed professional diving by providing real-time depth data alongside standard timekeeping functions, setting a new standard for underwater instruments.
The anniversary edition closely mirrors the distinctive look that made the original famous. The crown is positioned at 4 o’clock, three push buttons are thoughtfully placed, and the round depth sensor at 9 o’clock echoes the original’s signature feature. The updated model uses a gray, brushed stainless steel case with gold accents, lending a celebratory feel for the 40th anniversary.
Technically, the new Aqualand maintains the pioneering spirit of its predecessor. The digital display shows time, calendar, alarm, and chronograph functions, and in dive mode, it measures depth and dive time. The ascent rate alarm warns divers if they ascend too quickly, enhancing safety during decompression.
The BENEBiOL™ polyurethane strap is made from plant-based materials, offering durability in water while reducing environmental impact. This eco-friendly approach underscores Citizen’s commitment to responsible manufacturing without sacrificing performance in marine environments.
Powered by the Cal.C520 movement, the watch operates within ±20 seconds per month and supports full digital functionality. The watch meets ISO standards for 200-meter water resistance, making it suitable for professional diving. It features luminous hands and markers, a unidirectional rotating bezel, a screw-down crown, and a 1/100-second chronograph with a 100-minute counter for precise underwater timing.
The case back features a special design inspired by the original sensor, adding a unique touch exclusive to this anniversary edition. Limited to 5,800 pieces and launching in July 2025, the watch is aimed at both diving professionals and collectors who appreciate technical innovation in timepieces.
At $595, the Aqualand 40th Anniversary Edition offers a chance to celebrate the history of electronic diving watches while delivering modern performance, proving that thoughtful evolution keeps classic technologies relevant and reliable. Find out more at www.citizenwatch.com.