The History of an Icon
The Omega Speedmaster Professional, affectionately known as the "Moonwatch," holds a unique place in horological history as the only watch certified by NASA for space missions. Its first steps towards lunar fame began in 1965 when NASA requested quotes for a watch that could withstand the harsh conditions of space. Among the competing brands, Omega emerged victorious with its Speedmaster chronograph.
In 1969, the Speedmaster Professional became immortalized when Buzz Aldrin wore it during the Apollo 11 mission to the Moon, marking the watch’s place in history forever.
Technical Specifications
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Case | Stainless steel, 42 mm diameter |
Movement | Omega Calibre 1861 manual-wind chronograph |
Bezel | Tachymetric scale |
Crystal | Hesalite |
Water resistance | 50 meters |
Bracelet | Steel bracelet with Omega logo clasp |
Design and Functionality
The Speedmaster Professional’s design is both functional and timeless. Its stainless steel case exudes durability, while its black dial ensures clarity and visibility. The iconic tachymeter bezel allows users to calculate speeds quickly.
At the heart of the Speedmaster lies the Omega Calibre 1861, a manual-wind chronograph movement renowned for its precision and reliability. By utilizing a manual-wind mechanism, the Speedmaster eliminates the risk of battery failure in the vacuum of space.
Significance and Legacy
Beyond its technical prowess, the Speedmaster Professional has become a symbol of human achievement and exploration. Its association with the Apollo missions has made it an enduring icon of horology.
Today, the Speedmaster Professional continues to be produced as a tribute to its storied past. It remains a highly sought-after timepiece by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes the Speedmaster Professional so unique?
A: Its NASA certification and its role in the Apollo missions.
Q: What is the Speedmaster’s significance to the Moon landing?
A: It was the only watch worn by astronauts on the Moon.
Q: Can the Speedmaster Professional still be used in space today?
A: Yes, it is still used by some NASA astronauts during space missions.
Q: Is the Speedmaster Professional a good investment?
A: Due to its historical significance and limited production, the Speedmaster Professional has maintained its value over time, making it a potential collectible.
Q: How do I care for my Speedmaster Professional?
A: Regular maintenance and servicing by an authorized Omega dealer is recommended to ensure longevity.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch is an iconic chronograph known for its association with NASA’s space missions. It became the first watch worn on the moon by astronaut Buzz Aldrin in 1969 during the Apollo 11 mission.
Key Features:
- Enduring design with a round stainless steel case and asymmetrical lugs
- Black dial with white indices, tachymeter scale, and three sub-dials
- Hesalite crystal known for its scratch resistance
- Manual-wound Caliber 1861 or 3861 movement
- Water resistance up to 50 meters
Significance:
- Certified by NASA for space missions due to its reliability and accuracy
- Symbolizes human achievement and exploration
- Coveted by watch enthusiasts as a legacy timepiece
Variations:
- Over the years, Omega has released numerous variations of the Speedmaster Moonwatch, including limited editions, commemorative models, and special collaborations.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is an iconic chronograph renowned for its precision, reliability, and historical significance. Here’s a summary of its key features:
- Chronograph Function: Features an advanced chronograph function with a 12-hour counter, 30-minute counter, and a running seconds hand.
- NASA-Certified: Officially certified by NASA for extravehicular activities, including the historic Moon landing missions.
- Calibre 3861: Powered by the Omega Calibre 3861, an advanced automatic movement with a 50-hour power reserve.
- Helium Escape Valve: Equipped with a helium escape valve to prevent damage to the watch during underwater operations.
- Tachymeter Scale: A tachymeter scale on the bezel allows for quick speed calculations based on time and distance.
- Case and Bracelet: Available in various case materials, including stainless steel, titanium, and gold, with a matching bracelet or leather strap.
- Spartan Design: Its minimalist and functional design prioritizes legibility and ease of use, with distinctive elements like the asymmetrical lugs and dot-over-90 tachymeter scale.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Chronograph
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Chronograph is an iconic timepiece renowned for its association with NASA’s Apollo missions and its historic use as the first watch worn on the moon.
Features:
- Self-winding mechanical chronograph movement
- 42mm stainless steel case with a black dial
- Tachymeter scale for calculating speed
- Hesalite crystal
- Water-resistant up to 50 meters
Historical Significance:
- In 1969, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch became the first watch to be worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission.
- It has been used by astronauts on numerous NASA missions, including all six moon landings.
- The Speedmaster Moonwatch has earned a reputation as a reliable and accurate timekeeping instrument in extreme conditions.
Legacy and Impact:
- The Speedmaster Moonwatch is considered a horological icon and a symbol of human achievement.
- It is a highly collectible watch, with vintage models fetching high prices at auctions.
- The Speedmaster Moonwatch continues to be produced and updated by Omega, maintaining its status as a timeless classic.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Chronograph
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Chronograph is an iconic timepiece that has been a part of some of the most significant moments in human history. First introduced in 1957, the Speedmaster quickly became the watch of choice for astronauts and was the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
The Speedmaster is known for its robust construction, precision timekeeping, and unparalleled reliability. It features a 42mm stainless steel case, a black dial with luminous hour markers and hands, and a manual-wound Calibre 1861 movement that provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The chronograph function allows for precise time measurement up to 12 hours, making it an indispensable tool for pilots, divers, and other professionals.
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Chronograph is a timeless classic that combines technical prowess with historical significance. It remains a sought-after timepiece for collectors and enthusiasts alike, and continues to be a symbol of human achievement and exploration.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Co-Axial
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Co-Axial is a legendary timepiece with an unparalleled legacy in space exploration. Originally developed in 1957 for professional racing drivers, the Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
Featuring a 42mm stainless steel case with a black dial, the Moonwatch is powered by the Calibre 1861 Co-Axial Master Chronometer movement, certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) for precision and reliability. Its chronograph function includes a 30-minute counter, a 12-hour counter, and a central chronograph seconds hand.
Known for its classic and timeless design, the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Co-Axial continues to be a symbol of human achievement and is considered a must-have for watch collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Co-Axial Master Chronometer
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Co-Axial Master Chronometer is an iconic timepiece with a rich history in space exploration.
Features:
- 42mm stainless steel case
- Black dial with tachymeter scale
- Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861 movement
- Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Water resistance to 50 meters
History:
The Speedmaster Professional was first introduced in 1957 and was later certified by NASA for use in space missions. It has since become the only watch to be worn by astronauts on the moon during all six lunar landings.
Precision:
The Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861 movement is certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) to meet the highest standards of precision and anti-magnetic resistance.
Legacy:
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is a symbol of resilience, innovation, and human achievement in space exploration. It continues to be a highly sought-after timepiece among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Master Chronometer
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Master Chronometer is the iconic timepiece worn by astronauts during all six lunar missions. This latest model embodies both tradition and innovation, featuring:
- Certified Master Chronometer: Meets the highest standards of precision and magnetic resistance, ensuring exceptional performance.
- Hesalite Crystal: Scratch-resistant and nostalgic, reminiscent of the original Moonwatch.
- 18K Moonshine™ Gold: A unique alloy that captures the warm glow of moonlight, used for the casing and bracelet.
- Caliber 3861 Movement: A manual-winding mechanical movement with a 50-hour power reserve.
- Sapphire Caseback: Allows a view of the intricate movement, showcasing the craftsmanship.
- Lunar Phase Indicator: Beautifully displayed in a subdial, keeping track of the moon’s phases.
- Tachymeter Scale: Enables users to calculate speeds based on time and distance traveled.
- Water Resistance: Up to 50 meters, suitable for everyday wear.
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Master Chronometer Co-Axial
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Master Chronometer Co-Axial is a legendary timepiece renowned for its historical significance and technical prowess.
Design:
Featuring a timeless design that has remained largely unchanged since its debut in 1957, it retains the iconic symmetrical "Speedmaster" case and sporty tachymeter bezel.
Movement:
Powered by the Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, this watch offers exceptional precision and performance. The automatic movement features a Co-Axial escapement, which provides enhanced chronometry and shock resistance.
Certification:
Meticulously tested and certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS), the watch meets the highest standards of chronometric accuracy, magnetism resistance, and performance.
Features:
- 42mm stainless steel case
- Hesalite crystal
- Black PVD dial with applied luminous indices
- Luminous hands, including the central chronograph seconds hand
- Tachymeter bezel
- Date window at 6 o’clock
- Water resistance to 50 meters
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Master Chronometer Co-Axial Calibre 3861
The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Master Chronometer Co-Axial Calibre 3861 is an iconic timepiece renowned for its precision, durability, and historical significance.
Features:
- Master Chronometer certification by METAS, guaranteeing stringent accuracy and resistance to magnetic fields
- Co-Axial Calibre 3861 movement with column-wheel chronograph and vertical clutch
- 42mm stainless steel case with sapphire crystal and exhibition caseback
- Black dial with Super-LumiNova-coated hands and markers
- Hesalite crystal for added protection and vintage charm
- Water resistance up to 50 meters
- Nato strap in black, beige, and gray
Significance:
The Moonwatch has a legendary history as the first timepiece worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Its rugged construction and exceptional reliability have made it a trusted companion for astronauts and adventurers alike.
Additional Features:
- Includes a rich set of accessories, such as a presentation box, loupe, NATO strap tool, and certificate of authenticity
- Comes with a 5-year international warranty for peace of mind