The Schumacher Racing Legacy

With the Professional line cementing the Speedmaster’s status as the ultimate Moonwatch, the collection’s soul remains rooted in the tarmac. This racing pedigree was revitalized in 1996 when Omega signed a young Michael Schumacher as a brand ambassador. At the time, Schumacher was the reigning back-to-back World Champion and had just made his high-stakes move to Ferrari—a transition that would eventually define one of the greatest dynasties in Formula 1 history.

To celebrate the partnership, Omega pivoted from the monochromatic Moonwatch aesthetic to a high-octane palette. Launched by Schumacher himself at his home karting track in Kerpen, Germany, the series used the Speedmaster Reduced as its canvas. These watches weren't just instruments; they were a bold, younger expression of the Speedmaster, designed to capture the high-energy world of the Grand Prix.

The Rosso Corsa Aesthetic: Ref. 3510.61.00

If any watch in this collection perfectly captures the dawn of the Schumacher-Ferrari era, it is the ref. 3510.61.00. Dressed in a vibrant, unapologetic red, this reference is a direct nod to the iconic Rosso Corsa (Ferrari red) that has defined Italian motorsports for decades.

• The Dial: The electric red dial is the centerpiece, featuring a checkered flag minute track that emphasizes its trackside origins.
• The Ferrari Connection: Released during Schumacher's first year with the Scuderia, the red dial served as an unofficial tribute to his new team, making it an instant favorite for the Tifosi.
• The Build: Utilizing the 39mm reduced case and an automatic movement, this model offers a streamlined, compact profile. It traded the bulky dimensions of the Professional for a nimble, ergonomic fit - much like the cockpit of the F310 he drove that season.  

Maker: Omega
Model: Speedmaster Reduced
Reference: 3510.61.00
Year: 1997
Case No: 5525822X
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 39mm diameter; 12mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Omega, self-winding, caliber 1143
Bracelet/Strap: Omega, stainless steel, no. 32 ref. 1469 bracelet with 811 end links.  (Currently sized for a wrist size 7.1in / 180mm) with spare links included.
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: Box (outer and tyre)/Warranty card and manuals

This reference is a quintessential piece of '90s memorabilia, originally delivered in a unique presentation box shaped like an F1 tire. For the collector, the 3510.61.00 isn't just a chronograph; it is a wearable piece of history from the exact moment Michael Schumacher began his journey toward becoming a seven-time World Champion.

The red dial is something to behold; its depth can only be matched to the levels you expect from the car. Coupled with the reduced dimensions, this watch just feels playful yet sophisticated straight off the line. From a collectors point of view, this watch comes with the original Schumacher rubber tyre box, tyre stand, and bolt tool. 

This Speedmaster Rosso Corsa has clearly been looked after. The case is in original condition and is hard to find any blemish, with its polished and brushed finish looking as sharp as the day it was released. The Speedmaster medallion and serial number are very crisp. The rear of the lugs show no marks from the bracelet being removed. The black tachymeter bezel is well-preserved without any signs of wear.

The dial and hands are in lovely condition with a light patina throughout. The lume on the dial has developed patina and has aged to an attractive cream color. The lume on the hands has developed patina and matches the dial really well. There are a few small dark spots in the hand lume. The hands themselves have developed some patina.

The bracelet is in very good overall condition with next to no stretch and matches the case condition really well. The dial, crown, case, bracelet, movement, and crystal are all signed by Omega.