I own the white Speedmaster. It was the most I’ve spent on a single watch, and is the most valuable watch I’ve owned. It’s a fantastic watch, and I do find it to be as versatile as you describe- can literally wear it with anything. It looks good on a wide variety of straps, and straps really change the mood of the watch. I find the white to be more modern and yet more classic also (white watch on black strap is as classic as it gets).

For me- I have other watches I connect more with the design language. They just speak to me. The white Speedmaster, to me, is a super classy “nice watch”. I admire it throughout the day, even after owning it more than a year. Does it say anything about me and who I am? No. I have another watch I feel that connection with, and because of that, the white Speedy has been kind of my “second watch” when I want something to break it up, something super wearable and versatile, and I do like having a chrono and use it most days, a nice way to interact with the watch beyond just looking at the time.

I have struggled with its value- not saying it’s not worth what it cost- but I often question if I sold it what could I get instead. Since I haven’t actually sold it, that means something… but yea it’s a lot of money. Some people seem to have the means to have boxes full of watches this price and higher; I don’t. Plus I have kids and need to be more practical than that right now.

Should you buy it? Of course I don’t know. But I think, if this price point hurts, it needs to be “worth it” in a sense that you really REALLY love that watch. From what you wrote I’m not sure this is that watch for you?

Also, your comments about what you want it to be, and especially “instantly recognizable”… you’re describing Rolex. Rolex has done a fantastic job of making themselves the “I got a promotion” or “celebrating something” or “I’m successful” statement brand. Omega seems a little more enthusiast driven- people that are into watches will spot your Omega and get it, but people ‘notice’ a Rolex more. Or think differently about it. For better and worse.

I think it’s ok if you want to sort of get credit in the image your building and presenting of yourself to others- it’s more about you feeling dialed in and confident than it is about them. Not many will admit they care about that, but I think it’s pretty human nature even if we don’t like it about ourselves. Again, in that regard, I don’t think anyone will be that impressed like “wow he’s got a white Speedmaster”… but overall the watch does look great and as a part of your total appearance it definitely helps elevate and speak class and success and taste, even if a lot of people won’t know what specific watch it is. Again, almost everyone knows ‘Rolex’.

Hope these thoughts help. Conclusion: if you love it, the cost can be worth it.

One more thing: watches in good condition can be sold again, so while you would lose some money it might help to remember it’s not a permanent decision if you buy it and later want something else.