Omega Speedmaster

When the Omega Speedmaster was introduced in 1957, no one could have anticipated the grand fate that awaited the Speedy.

During the early 1960s, NASA began to search for a suitable watch fit for astronauts that could be worn during space missions. NASA then procured several chronographs, including the Omega Speedmaster among timepieces from other brands. The timepieces then underwent a series of rigorous tests to determine whether or not they would be fit for NASA spaceflights. There was ample competition but in the end, it was only the Speedmaster that could pass the stringent testing of the space agency. The watch was then approved as the exclusive timepiece for astronauts onboard NASA spaceflights.

The Speedmaster (Ref. 105003) accompanied astronaut Ed White in 1965 during the first US spacewalk to ever take place in history. Following the exploration of the universe, the Speedmaster’s name was fastened with the word “Professional”.

The Speedmaster (Ref. 105 012) took a big leap forward with mankind in 1969 when Buzz Aldrin wore the exceptional timepiece on the surface of the moon. As a result, Buzz Aldrin’s Speedmaster was the first watch to ever be worn on the moon. Since then, in order to commemorate the extraordinary achievement, the Speedmaster incorporates an engraving on the bottom of the case that states: "The First Watch Worn on the Moon".

The Speedmaster has gone down in history as the "Moonwatch" and continues to fascinate watch lovers worldwide with its celebrated and memorable history.

The Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch has remained relatively unchanged throughout the years and the timepiece has prevailed as the flagship model of the collection for decades. Reminiscent of the first moon landing in 1969, the watch is still equipped with a hand-wound movement and a Hesalite crystal. Clients of the brand strongly approve of the value that Omega places on history and tradition.

Although Omega prefers not to make substantial changes to the core of the Speedmaster design, the manufacturer has complemented the collection with additional models, considerably diversifying the Speedmaster watch family. Many Speedmaster models have been created with allegiance to historical space travel events in which the Speedmaster had been present, such as the Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 45th Anniversary Limited Edition (Ref. 311.62.42.30.06.001). Other models unite a legendary and traditional design with the advanced technologies of Omega.

A very popular model that can now only be found on the second-hand market is the Omega Speedmaster Reduced (Ref. 3510.50.00) that comes equipped with a smaller 39-millimeter case diameter as opposed to the traditional 42-millimeter case diameter. The Speedmaster Reduced has an automatic movement and impresses with simple usability.

In 2011, the Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph (Ref. 311.30.44.50.01.002 etc.) was presented as a reinterpretation of the Speedy. The timepiece impresses with elements that Omega stands for — the world-famous design of the Moonwatch, the in-house automatic caliber, and the sophisticated Co-Axial mechanism. With an increased diameter of 44.25 mm, the model calls out to lovers of large timepieces.

Tradition and innovation are wonderfully brought together in the Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph, which is reflected in the high cost of the timepiece. However, the watch is highly regarded as it is a reminder of the ground-breaking events of the past. Furthermore, the steady value of the timepiece proves that it is an optimal investment.

The Speedmaster is one of the most popular and widely celebrated timepieces by Omega. As a result, several derivative Speedmaster models have been developed with new and distinct features compared to the original design, such as the Mark and the Speedmaster Broad Arrow. These Speedmaster lines have become so favoured among Omega fans that the watch manufacturer has continued to extend their models further with new and improved features.

One of the most popular models when it comes to the Speedmaster line is the Mark series. The first generation of the Mark line, Mark II, was introduced in 1969 and stood out thanks to its distinctive case and brushed stainless steel bracelet that is complete with Omega's patented extendable fold-over rack-and-pusher clasp.

The succeeding model, Mark III, followed in 1971 and was the first Speedmaster to be equipped with an automatic movement. In 2014, Omega introduced a new version of the Mark II (e.g. Ref. 327.10.43.50.01.001) that combines the vintage-inspired design of the watch with the sophisticated mechanics of a Co-Axial caliber.

A model that relies on a design from the Omega archives is the Speedmaster Broad Arrow (Ref. 321.10.44.50.01.001 others), which seeks inspiration in the 1957 Omega Speedmaster Ref. CK2915. Honouring the design inclinations of the fifties, the watch is equipped with broad hour hands in black.

Internally, however, the Omega Speedmaster Broad Arrow is implemented with an automatic movement, Co-Axial escapement, and watch back comprised of sapphire crystal. The timepieces with a case diameter of 44.5mm enjoy long-standing popularity among the Omega clientele.

In addition to the Speedmaster Broad Arrow, Omega has launched several, often limited edition, models that celebrate the original Speedy from 1957. A prime example is the Speedmaster '57 (Ref. 331.10.42.51.03.001 etc.), which was launched in 2013 and is characterised by an understated watch dial and two subdials.

Watch collectors and loyal brand enthusiasts can look toward the many unique models of the Speedmaster collection for inspiring timepieces that sleekly combine a vintage design with revolutionary technologies.

The Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon (Ref. 311.92.44.51.01.003) pays tribute to the Apollo 8 astronauts, as they were the first individuals to witness the dark side of the moon with their own eyes. Dressed entirely in black, the Co-Axial Speedmaster honours the pioneering spirits of the brave astronauts and simultaneously reinterprets the legendary design of the moon watch.

"The moon is essentially grey," declared NASA astronaut Jim Lovell during the lunar orbit.

The Omega Speedmaster Grey Side of the Moon (Ref. 311.93.44.51.99.001) not only recalls the words of the courageous astronaut but is inspired by the metallic shade that lunar dust is composed of. Furthermore, the sand blasted 950 platinum dial provides the Omega timepiece with a classic look while underlining the innovative and technical sophistication of the watch.

Omega further introduced the Speedmaster White Side of the Moon. Evidently, the spectacular design of the timepiece is inspired by the brilliance of the moon. The Speedmaster White Side of the Moon is characterised in particular by its brushed and polished white ceramic case body and bezel.

All three models of the Speedmaster collection have a solid diameter of 44.25-millimeters and feature the characteristic design element of the Speedmaster: the tachymeter scale.

At CHRONEXT you can find a wide range of Speedmaster models for attractive prices. Looking for a smart deal? Have a look at our certified pre-owned Omega Speedmaster models and you will find watches for incredible low prices. Each model is inspected and checked for authenticity and quality by our inhouse watchmakers and comes with a two year warranty.

By the way: Selling watches is easy at CHRONEXT! Do you have an Omega Speedmaster model that you'd like to sell? At CHRONEXT, we offer you the option to sell watches online as well as to buy them. With our various sales options such as trade-in, commission and direct sales, we help you to get the best possible price while taking care of the entire process. If you're interested, simply fill out our online form or contact our team by phone or email.