The Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 is a 45 mm titanium analog-digital quartz watch that Omega presented in December 2014 and developed with the European Space Agency (ESA) for spaceflight. It is not a Moonwatch: it has no manual-wind chronograph, and its job is to show mission timers, alarms and several time scales at a glance. This guide covers what it does, how it differs from the Speedmaster Professional, and what to check if you want one sourced.
Last reviewed on October 28, 2026 by Filip Biczak. Specifications are summarized from Omega and reputable watch publications and can vary by reference and production year; confirm details against the exact watch. Sources: Omega, Skywalker X-33 collection and Monochrome Watches, Skywalker X-33 review.
What is the Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33?
It is the third generation of Omega's X-33 line, a quartz chronograph that pairs analog hands with liquid-crystal display windows. The first X-33 appeared in 1998 and was developed with input from astronauts and flight crews; it was retired from the catalog in 2006. The Skywalker was presented in December 2014 and carries a calibre built under an ESA patent licence based on an idea from ESA astronaut Jean-François Clervoy. Omega gave it the Speedmaster name because of the brand's long association with space, but mechanically it has little in common with the hand-wound Moonwatch.
What are the specs of the Skywalker X-33?
The core facts are a titanium case of about 45 mm, a quartz calibre and a long list of timing functions. The table below uses figures that Omega and trade reviews agree on.
| Attribute | Skywalker X-33 (318.90.45.79.01.001) |
|---|---|
| Case material | Titanium |
| Case diameter | 45 mm |
| Case height | Roughly 15 mm |
| Movement | Omega calibre 5619, quartz, analog plus LCD |
| Displays | Analog hands plus LCD windows |
| Space timing functions | Mission Elapsed Time (MET) and Phase Elapsed Time (PET) |
| Other functions | Multiple time zones including UTC, alarm, timer, chronograph, perpetual calendar |
| Water resistance | 30 m (3 bar) |
| Power | Battery, replaced by a service centre |
How was the Skywalker X-33 tested for space?
Omega states that the watch went through qualification testing for ESA. Trade coverage describes tests at ESA's technical centre in the Netherlands, including vibration, centrifuge, temperature extremes and radiation exposure. Treat the exact test values as reported, not guaranteed for every unit. One widely cited flight example is the watch worn by ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet to the International Space Station in late 2016 during his Proxima mission. Earlier X-33 generations had a separate qualification path through NASA, which is why you will see both agencies named in X-33 history.
What do MET and PET mean on an X-33?
MET is the time elapsed since a mission began, and PET is the time elapsed since a particular phase of the mission began. Both are counting timers rather than clock times. An astronaut can start MET at launch and reset PET at each milestone, so one glance shows both how long the whole flight has lasted and how long the current task has taken. The X-33 also lets the wearer set alarms and view more than one time scale, which suits crews working across ground-control zones.
Is the Skywalker X-33 the same as the Moonwatch?
No. The Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is a manual-wind mechanical chronograph with a long history tied to NASA's Apollo era, while the Skywalker X-33 is an electronic instrument watch built for different needs. If you want to compare them, our Speedmaster Moonwatch guide covers the calibre 3861, calibre 321 and 1861 watches in detail.
| Feature | Skywalker X-33 | Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch |
|---|---|---|
| Movement type | Quartz, analog and LCD | Mechanical, manual-wind |
| Case material | Titanium | Steel in most versions |
| Main strength | Mission timers, alarms, multiple time scales | Manual-wind chronograph with Apollo-era heritage |
| Maintenance | Battery changes and service | Periodic mechanical servicing |
| Character | Instrument tool watch | Classic chronograph |
Is there a newer version, the Marstimer?
Yes. Omega later added an X-33 Marstimer, a variant built on the Skywalker idea and aimed at Mars-related timekeeping, with a solar compass reported in trade coverage. Its details differ from the original Skywalker, so check the reference number before comparing specs.
What should you check before buying a Skywalker X-33?
Check four things: the reference number, the condition of the LCD, the battery and service history, and the paperwork. Quartz instrument watches age differently from mechanical ones, so a faded or patchy display or an unserviced unit can mean a costly repair. Ask whether the watch has its box and papers and whether the bracelet or strap is original. Our Omega buying guide explains how to weigh the wider range, and you can browse the Omega Speedmaster collection or the full Omega range. A listed example is the Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 318.90.45.79.01.001. Bizak & Co. sources watches to order and does not hold them in stock, so we confirm the exact unit and its details before you commit.
Quick answers
What is the Omega Skywalker X-33?
It is a 45 mm titanium analog-digital quartz chronograph, presented in 2014 and developed with the European Space Agency for spaceflight timing.
Is the Skywalker X-33 mechanical or quartz?
It is quartz. Its calibre 5619 is battery powered and combines analog hands with LCD windows.
Did astronauts really wear the Skywalker X-33?
Yes. ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet wore one on his 2016 to 2017 Proxima mission to the International Space Station, according to published accounts.
How is the X-33 different from a Speedmaster Moonwatch?
The X-33 is an electronic instrument watch with mission timers and alarms. The Moonwatch is a manual-wind mechanical chronograph.
Does Bizak & Co. keep the Skywalker X-33 in stock?
No. We source it to order, confirm the specific watch, and agree the details with you before any commitment.
Related reading: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Guide, Which Omega to Buy and Omega Speedmaster vs Seamaster vs Constellation.
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Tell us the model, size, dial and bracelet preference, whether you want new or pre-owned, and your budget and timing, through our sourcing enquiry form. We confirm the specific watch, photographs and final price before you commit.
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