Footballer Erling Haaland spotted wearing a Omega

Erling Haaland, Manchester City's elite striker, was photographed at a recent event wearing one of the rarest iterations of the Omega Speedmaster Professional: reference 311.96.42.30.01.001. Housed in a platinum case and adorned with a baguette-cut emerald bezel surrounding a black aventurine dial, the watch represents a level of horological exclusivity rarely seen in the mainstream spotlight. The sighting reinforces the Speedmaster's enduring status among collectors and high-net-worth individuals seeking timepieces beyond standard production runs.

The Speedmaster Professional ref. 311.96.42.30.01.001 is powered by the calibre 321, a manual-wind chronograph movement that remains the most sought-after Speedmaster calibre among purists. The 321 operates at 21,600 vph and offers approximately 48 hours of power reserve. The 42mm platinum case delivers exceptional heft and presence on the wrist, while the black aventurine dial—a material prized for its reflective, starry appearance—provides striking contrast to the vivid green emerald bezel. Water resistance stands at 50 metres, standard for the Speedmaster Professional line. The bracelet features solid links matched to the platinum case, ensuring durability and prestige commensurate with the watch's position in the Speedmaster hierarchy.

This particular reference was conceived as a collaboration with horology specialist Horology Ancienne and draws inspiration from the exceedingly rare 1994 baguette-set Speedmaster, itself a limited creation for select clientele. The 311.96.42.30.01.001 is understood to exist in single-digit production numbers—a fact that elevates it beyond even most limited-edition Speedmasters. The calibre 321 engine, no longer in regular production, further amplifies desirability; Omega discontinued the movement in the 1960s and only recently reintroduced it in ultra-limited releases. Collectors view the 321-powered Speedmaster as the authentic lineage to the original 1957 Speedmaster, making this platinum variant a definitive grail piece.

Haaland's choice of this particular Speedmaster Professional reflects a broader trend among elite athletes and collectors toward ultra-rare, bespoke timepieces rather than standard production models. The footballer joins an exclusive fraternity of owners whose Speedmaster selections transcend mass-market appeal. The pairing of platinum, emerald, aventurine, and the calibre 321 within reference 311.96.42.30.01.001 creates a watch that few outside the ultra-wealthy horological circle will ever own or wear.

Market data for this reference remains illiquid due to its extreme rarity and bespoke nature. Grey-market pricing is difficult to establish, though comparable platinum Speedmaster Professional models with custom bezels typically command €45,000 to €65,000 EUR. The single-digit production run ensures that any appearance on the secondary market generates significant collector interest. Waitlist availability through Omega directly is non-existent for this reference; acquisition requires established relationships with authorized dealers, private sales, or auction houses specializing in haute horlogerie.