[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER RATTRAPANTE CO-AXIAL

Announced at Baselworld in 2006, the Speedmaster Rattrapante Co-Axial is a blend sports styling evoking the original looks of OMEGA’s models of the 1950’s and featuring useful timing functions. Hence it boasts classic and distinctive design characteristics in its’ curved horns and round polished push-buttons. When you then add these to the column wheel chronograph with vertical coupling function, the Co-Axial escapement and a COSC certificate, this striking watch becomes a precision time keeper with all the attractive nuances of a Speedmaster.

In using one watch to record two or more events, the Rattrapante (or split-seconds) which was first introduced in 1930, assists in the elimination of discrepancies between two chronographs in sports timing. In a similar manner, the column wheel introduced in 1898 into a pocket watch, allows precision start, stop and reset functions of the multiple hands of the chronograph. Therefore sports enthusiasts today can time laps or two events without resorting to a second timekeeper while the tachymeter scale allows average speeds to be calculated over a set distance. In addition, the red Pulsometer scale on the dial serves to take pulse readings.

This unique and very capable timepiece is driven by the self-winding Omega calibre 3612. The Co-Axial escapement, technology that is exclusive to Omega, represents one of the most important advances in watchmaking over the last 250 years and is now being introduced into the Speedmaster Broad Arrow range. The Co-Axial escapement considerably reduces friction in the heart of the watch mechanism and offers improved long-term reliability and accuracy. Performance is further improved by a free-sprung balance that allows for more precise adjustments of the watch. The watch has a 52-hour power-reserve and the white rhodium-plated movement is finished to luxury standards with special waves, circular-graining and gold plated engraving. The screws and the column-wheel components are made of blued-steel and the movement is visible behind the sapphire crystal case back.

Two versions of the dial are available, with black counters against a silver dial and vice versa. Needless to say, both allow for easy reading of both the chronograph and time functions. The red Pulsometer scale running around the outside of the dial provides another useful function and the fixed brushed stainless steel bezel incorporates an engraved tachymeter scale. Luminous, facetted and diamond-polished Broad Arrow hour and minute hands make for good visibility while the red tip of the split-seconds hand facilitate precise readings to 1/8th of a second. The date window is positioned at 6 o’clock and the Omega logo and hour markers are applied to the dial.

The polished and brushed stainless steel case which incorporates a watertight double-gasket crown has a diameter of 44.25 mm and is water resistant to 100m/330 ft. The domed and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal has an anti-reflective treatment on the inside. A third push-button at 10 o’clock activates the split second function.

The Speedmaster Rattrapante Co-Axial is available on either a satin finished stainless steel bracelet with a safety clasp or on a brown over stitched calfskin strap with a fold over stainless steel clasp.

Pictures and Text assistance – omegawatches.com












Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality
and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.
​

 

[Houston]

OMEGA OLYMPIC COLLECTION
SPEEDMASTER DATE LOS ANGELES 1932

When OMEGA was given full reign as official timekeeper at the 1932 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, it used 30 pocket-watch sized counters and chronographs, each of which had an easily legible white dial with black Arabic numerals. The only other elements on the dial were the trademark red OMEGA name and symbol as found on all of the company's timepieces at the time.


The Special OMEGA Olympic collection issued in March 2004 recall the very beginnings of the brand's timekeeping exploits with a design that harks back to those first chronographs used at the 1932 Olympic Games. The collection sees reproductions of the original dials of these models, complete with the period red OMEGA name and symbol. The case back of each model is engraved with the five Olympic rings.


The OMEGA SPEEDMASTER DATE, LOS ANGELES 1932, model reference 3513.20.00, has a stainless-steel case which measures 37.0mm in diameter and is water resistant to 30 metres. A tachometer scale is engraved on the stainless steel bezel and the watch has a matching stainless-steel bracelet with snap-fastening clasp. The design touches include red chronograph hands for the central seconds, 30-minute totaliser at 12o’clock and 12-hour totaliser at 6 o’clock, Paris-style Arabic numerals and the red OMEGA symbol and name as used on the original chronographs employed for timekeeping at the 1932 Olympic Games. The unique dial is also complemented by blued-steel hour, minute and small seconds hands and is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment.


Power is derived through the OMEGA calibre 1152 self-winding chronograph movement which has an exclusive rhodium-plated finish and it boasts a power reserve of 44 hours. The Olympic Rings which represent the five continents of the world are engraved on the case back of the watch as a symbol of OMEGA’s unparalleled record of timekeeping in the Olympic Games.

Pictures – omegawatches.com

​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality
and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA OLYMPIC COLLECTION
SPEEDMASTER BROAD ARROW MELBOURNE 1956​

The Speedmaster Broad Arrow 1956 possesses the striking hands of the original Speedmaster chronograph which was launched in 1957. Housed in a 42mm stainless steel case and bracelet, it has a satin-finished stainless steel bezel that is engraved with a tachometric scale. Beneath the anti-reflective sapphire crystal is a black dial, the design of which recalls the original OMEGA chronographs used at Olympic Games with the white Paris-style Arabic numerals, red chronograph hands for the central seconds, 30 minute and 12 hour totalisers in company with the vintage OMEGA symbol and name in red. The screw-in case back and OMEGA double gaskets for the crown and chronograph pushers ensure water resistance equivalent to pressure at a depth of 100metres.

Power for this commemorative timepiece is supplied by the OMEGA calibre 3303, a self-winding, chronometer-certified, column-wheel chronograph movement, complete with circular graining, Geneva wave decor, rhodium-plated surfaces and gold-plated engravings. It delivers a power reserve of 55 hours and uses the OMEGA free-sprung balance for better regulating stability. This limited edition piece, model reference 3556.50.00 is engraved on its caseback with the Olympic rings bearing a timey reminder of OMEGA’s unparalleled record of timekeeping at the Olympic Games.

Pictures and Text – omegawatches.com













​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA TORINO 2006 OLYMPIC COLLECTION
THE SPEEDMASTER BROAD ARROW CO-AXIAL RATTRAPANTE

In renewing its’ relationship with the Olumpic Games, OMEGA launched the Torino 2006 Olympic Collection chronographs in readiness for the Games. There were three showcase timepieces, each of which was distinguishable by the five interlocking coloured rings that represent the Olympic Games. A strikingly innovative application of nanotechnology had enabled OMEGA to integrate this historic symbol with extraordinary precision and fidelity into the watch design. The coloured rings form the counterweight of the split-seconds or central seconds hand on the three chronographs, celebrating the Olympic Games and recalling OMEGA’s record of continuous innovation in both watchmaking and sports timekeeping. The role of OMEGA as Official Timekeeper to the Winter Games wass underscored by the “Torino 2006” mark on the dial in company with the Olympic rings symbol and the inscription “Official Timekeeper” which was stamped on the case back. An additional inscription on the case back enhances the exclusive character of the Torino 2006 Olympic Collection chronographs: “Torino 2006 Limited Edition”, followed by the engraved limited series number of the piece. In the case of the Rattrapante therefore, it was in the format of 01/26, just twenty-six were produced as a very special limited series. The Speedmaster Rattrapante was thus the centrepiece of the OMEGA Torino 2006 Olympic Collection.

The five coloured rings form the counterweight of the Rattrapante hand and the “Torino 2006” mark in blue at 12 o’clock underscores OMEGA’s role as Official Timekeeper. Hallmarks of the original Speedmasters are evident in the facetted, luminous Broad Arrow hour and minute hands and as a mark of distinction, all hands are blued, as are the facetted hour markers. As would be expected on a Speedmaster, a black tachometric scale was engraved on the bezel while a red pulsometric scale circumscribes the silvered dial. The hour marker zone and silver-edged counters were highlighted in rhodium. Below the 12-hour totalizer and date window at 6 o’clock are the words “Lap Timer” in black. The Speedmaster case in polished steel features a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 100 metres / 330 feet. Powered by the exclusive self-winding OMEGA calibre 3612, a certified chronometer movement, it has a power reserve of 55 hours and is fitted with OMEGA's proprietary Co-Axial Escapement and the OMEGA free sprung-balance. The split-seconds chronograph mechanism, controlled by a double column-wheel in blued steel, ensures precision start, stop and reset functions for the chronograph hand, the split-seconds hand and the hour and minute totalisers. A vertical coupling also ensures no jump or delay in the chronograph hand and split-seconds hand when the chronograph is started. This exclusive and historic chronograph was presented on a hand-stitched brown leather strap which enhances the elegance of this superb timepiece.

Pictures and Text Assistance – omegawatches.com
















Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality
and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.
​

 

[Houston]

A TALE OF TWO SPEEDMASTERS
OMEGA OLYMPIC TIMELESS COLLECTION​

With the Torino 2006 Olympic Winter Games marking OMEGA’s return to its historic role as Official Timekeeper of the Winter Games for a record-breaking eleventh time the company chose to commemorate the occasion by the release of the Olympic Timeless Collection. Six striking chronographs were produced to celebrate the Olympic Games and recall OMEGA’s innovative contributions to the art and science of sports timekeeping.


The Olympic Timeless Collection recalled the very beginnings of OMEGA’s timekeeping exploits with a design that captures the essence and characteristics of the chronographs produced by the brand in the 1930s and which were used at the 1932 Los Angeles Games. Each of the chronographs features the red OMEGA name and symbol found on the original 1932 chronographs. To underscore OMEGA’s return to its traditional role at the Olympic Games, the Olympic rings symbol, the OMEGA name and symbol and the inscription “Official Timekeeper” were stamped on the case back. Perhaps the most striking feature of these chronographs is the innovative application of nanotechnology to integrate the symbol of the Olympic Games into the design with the placing of the five interlocking coloured rings as the counterweight of the central seconds hand. Reproduced with extraordinary precision and fidelity, this historic symbol celebrates the Olympic Games and exemplifies OMEGA’s unparalleled record of innovation in watchmaking and sports timekeeping.

Speedmaster Date, Model 3516.20.00​

The Speedmaster Date has red chronograph hands and blued-steel hour, minute and small seconds hands set against a white dial. Available exclusively with a matching stainless-steel bracelet, it retains the typical Speedmaster feature of a tachometer scale engraved on the stainless-steel bezel and has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Power is derived courtesy of the OMEGA calibre 1152 self-winding chronograph movement with its’ exclusive rhodium-plated finish. It deliveres a power reserve of 44 hours with the timepiece being water resistant to 30 metres / 100 feet.

Speedmaster Broad Arrow, Model 3557.50.00​

The design of the Speedmaster Broad Arrow in the OMEGA Olympic Timeless Collection combines the red chronograph hands and the red OMEGA symbol and name with the traditional black dial of the Speedmaster. Featuring the striking “broad arrow” hands of the very first Speedmaster models, the Speedmaster Broad Arrow of the OMEGA Olympic Timeless Collection uses OMEGA’s high-end column-wheel chronograph movement, the OMEGA calibre 3303 which has a power reserve of 55 hours, stop-seconds function and uses the OMEGA free sprung-balance to offer better regulating stability. The highly-desirable commemorative piece is water resistant to 100 metres / 330 feet and is available exclusively with a matching stainless steel bracelet.

Pictures – omegawatches.com













Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality
and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.​

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL SPECIAL EDITION

Over forty years after being flight-qualified by NASA and half a century since it was first launched, the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional of today still bears more than just a striking resemblance to the models used in the Gemini programme, the release of which photographs led to OMEGA adding the word Professional to the dial of the watch. The legendary hand-wound chronograph movement used in the Speedmaster has naturally undergone some modifications to bring it in line with today's standards in mechanical watchmaking. In respect of this commemorative offering, the calibre 1861 delivers a power reserve of 45 hours and has rhodium-plated surfaces with polished bevelled edges, special wave decoration and circular-graining with gold-plated engravings.

The Gemini 4 is a special limited edition model characterised by its distinctive and attractive blue dial which is highlighted by silver counters for the 30-minute and 12-hour chronograph totalisers and continuous seconds. The blue theme is also continued on the bezel, with the familiar tachymeter scale reproduced on a blue aluminium ring. The commemorative nature of this timepiece is borne out by a subtle red engraving " 1965-2005 " below the Speedmaster name at 12 o'clock on the dial. The applied OMEGA symbol above the name in company with the 12 rhodium-plated hour markers further enhance the tone of luxury indicating the special nature of this limited edition of the Speedmaster. In all other respects, the watch remains a classic Speedmaster, with the same case, bracelet and hesalite crystal found on the standard Speedmaster Professional model, the 3570.50. A distinctive Gemini 4 mission patch, bearing the names of the crew, McDivitt and White and an illustration of the first space walk is etched in red on the sapphire crystal case back with the engraving "First Space Walk 40th Anniversary" and the limited edition number of the watch. The limited series is numbered 0001/2005 to commemorate the 40th anniversary year and only 2005 of these models were produced and offered in a special gift box.

Pictures – omegawatches.com








Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality
and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.
​

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL
APOLLO XI 35TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Whilst every prestige watch manufacturer looks forward to celebrating an anniversary of one of its timepieces, only Omega can celebrate an anniversary that made one of its watches a legend. On 20 July 2004, it was 35 years since mankind took its first steps on the moon. It was the expertise that went in to creating the Speedmaster and its’ tested reliability that led to its’ selection for manned spaceflight missions in the first place and the Speedmaster Professional Chronograph remains as popular today as ever, with ardent fans, enthusiasts and collectors.


Though the Speedmaster was first launched in 1957, relatively few changes have been made to its design or its movement over the years. After all, it would almost be foolhardy to abandon the highly robust case design, totally functional dial and unbeatably reliable movement that were instrumental in helping the Speedmaster become the only chronograph to pass the most stringent tests ever devised for a watch by NASA. Nevertheless, the special edition for the 35th anniversary of the moon landing distinguishes itself in its own original manner with a unique sapphire crystal case back on which the Apollo 11 mission patch is glazed in colour. The case-back ring bears the special inscription "Apollo 11 35th anniversary Limited Edition" as well as the limited-edition number (0001/3500). The limited-edition status is also confirmed by a subtle inscription below the Omega Speedmaster Professional name on the dial, mentioning merely the date of the Apollo 11 landing "July 20, 1969" in red.


The 35th anniversary Speedmaster has a silver dial with applied hour markers with luminous dots and contrasting black counters for the continuous small seconds, 30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters. It has the typical Speedmaster stainless-steel bezel with black aluminium ring bearing the tachymeter scale, rhodium-plated hands with SuperLuminova and stainless-steel bracelet with safety clasp. The movement is the classic Omega hand-winding chronograph calibre 1861, which has a 45-hour power reserve. It is a direct descendant of the original 321 and 861 calibres used in the very first Speedmasters and as such shares the same reliability and resistance that helped its predecessors withstand temperature fluctuations of over 100°C, shocks of 40g, acceleration of 16g and vibrations of between 5 and 2000 Hz during the NASA tests.


In commemoration of the 35th anniversary of the first lunar landing, Omega produced a strictly limited series of 3500 individually numbered Speedmasters bearing the Apollo 11 insignia. As mankind today explores even more distant horizons, with NASA leading the quests, these watches serve as a reminder of Omega's long-standing association with space exploration - an association that the brand will continue with the quest to return to the moon and, eventually, travel onwards to Mars.

Pictures and Text assistance– omegawatches.com









​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionalityand desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models. Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL
– SNOOPY EDITION

The OMEGA Speedmaster had been the first timepiece to be flight-qualified by NASA for extra-vehicular use on manned space missions. The character of Snoopy has been linked with space for over three decades since the Apollo 10 module was called Snoopy and the popular cartoon dog was chosen as the emblem for NASA’s most prestigious award. Snoopy was chosen because he was a character with whom everyone could associate. The coverted award comprises a sterling silver pin which has flown on board the Space Shuttle and takes the form of Snoopy wearing a space helmet and a space suit. Recipients are also presented with a certificate and a letter of commendation that has been personally signed by an astronaut citing the astronaut’s appreciation for outstanding performance. OMEGA of course had been the proud recipient of the Snoopy Award as signed by the three astronauts of Apollo 13 on October 5, 1970 in recognition of the crucial role that the Speedmaster chronograph played on the mission.

At the time OMEGA received the Snoopy Award, 450 Speedmaster chronographs had been produced and the current model of today retains the same appearance of its’ illustrious predecessor save for a few minor changes. Housed in a polished stainless steel case with tapered and facetted lugs, it has a steel bezel with a black aluminium ring which features a tachometric scale. The hesalite crystal which remains standard issue on the current model 3570.50 protects the black dial and its’ luminous hands and hour markers. The 1/5th second graduations for the chronograph remain and the screw-in case back fulfills its’ original remit for a robust and reliable chronograph and ensures water resistance to 50m.

The movement of the Speedmaster additionally remains largely unchanged with the exception of certain improvements bringing it in line with the latest technical standards. This is hardly surprising since the Speedmaster in its’ original guise has been one of the masterpieces in the history of watchmaking. That it is still flight-qualified by NASA and chosen by the rival space agency despite great leaps in progress bears firm testimony to the reknown, recognised and extraordinary reliability of its’ movement, the current derivative of which is the OMEGA calibre 1861, a manual-winding chronograph movement delivering a power reserve of 48 hours.

The Limited Edition Snoopy Award Speedmaster Professional is distinguished by the award patch inset in colour in the continuous seconds counter at 9 o’clock. This same attractively striking design is reproduced on the special sapphire caseback of the watch. It is achieved by a special etching and the emblem is painted onto the sapphire crystal which adds an extra dimension to the colours when seen against the light. Production of this highly exclusive timepiece was limited to 5,441 numbered pieces, the unusual number reflecting the elapsed time of Mission 13, being 142 hours, 54 minutes and 41 seconds.

Pictures – omegawatches.com













​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models. Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER APOLLO XV LIMITED EDITION

On March 1, 1965, following two years of rigorous testing, the Omega Speedmaster was chosen by the NASA as the only chronograph to be flight-qualified for manned space missions. It was the only chronograph to successfully complete the American Space Agency’s stringent tests that included exposure to extreme temperatures, vacuums, intense humidity, corrosion, shocks, acceleration, pressure, vibrations and noise. The Omega Speedmaster was officially worn for the first time on the Gemini 3 mission, launched later that month on March 23, 1965 and from then became the standard issue for all American astronauts and was the first watch to be worn during an EVA – Extra Vehicular Activity, outside a spacecraft.

The Apollo 15 Space Mission – “Endeavour and Falcon” took place from July 26 to August 7 1971 and was the second longest of all the Apollo space missions, taking 12 days, 17 hours and 12 minutes. It was the first mission on which the Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) was used. The vehicle carried scientific instruments for deployment on the Moon and gave the astronauts extended range for exploration. David R. Scott and James B. Irwin covered 27.9 km in the LRV and returned with one of the prize trophies of the Apollo program - a sample of ancient lunar crust named the “Genesis Rock”.

There is much in relation to the Omega Speedmaster about which to celebrate. Since its’ original deployment, the Speedmaster has secured a truly illustrious reputation as an invaluable partner in the field of space exploration. To commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Apollo 15 mission, Omega produced a Limited Edition model of 1971 timepieces, the year of the mission. This exclusive Moon Watch retains the traditional characteristics of the Speedmaster Professional chronograph with the addition of the Apollo 15 patch etched onto a sapphire crystal on the case back. The design features three stylized birds representing the three astronauts of the Apollo 15 mission - Commander David R. Scott, Alfred M. Worden and James B. Irwin. Engraved on the case back are the words “Apollo 15” and “35th anniversary”, as well as the number of the limited edition and the Omega logo in black.

The 1861-calibre chronograph, with its manual-winding movement delivers a power reserve of 48 hours. A highlight of the black dial are the red-gold hour markers and Super Luminova luminous dots matching the red-gold hands which are also coated with Super Luminova. The Speedmaster Professional Apollo 15 has three recessed, two-tone counters: the 12-hour counter at six o’clock, the 30-minute counter at three o’clock and the small seconds counter at nine o’clock. All these have stylish red-gold surrounds that match the other features of the watch. The 18-carat red-gold bezel has a black aluminium ring with a tachymetric scale.

The 42 mm diameter case is of polished and brushed stainless steel with 18-carat red gold push buttons and crown. It is water-resistant to a depth of 50 meters/167 feet. The solid-link bracelet with the special Omega safety clasp is made of brushed and polished stainless steel.

The Speedmaster Professional Apollo 15 is supplied in an elegant, matt silver wooden gift box lined in black. This striking silver and black box sets off the silver and black features of the watch. The box features the special Apollo 15 patch and the Omega logo in silver.

Pictures and Text Assistance – omegawatches.com












​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models. Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL APOLLO XVII LIMITED EDITION

​

As in respect of its’ first historical milestone, man’s final visit to the moon received a well-deserved momento in a commemorative model which was produced in a limited edition of just 3,000 pieces.
Then being the only watch to be flight-certified by NASA for use on manned space missions, the legendary Speedmaster Professional was the only watch to be officially worn on the moon.

This special limited-edition model commemorates the 30th anniversary of the last man to walk on the moon, Captain Eugene Cernan, the commander of the Apollo XVII mission. The case back of this special timepiece bears an imprint of the Apollo XVII mission patch and the special engraving "E. A. CERNAN APOLLO XVII 12.14.1972 LAST MAN ON THE MOON". Limited series of 3000 pieces.

Today, the timeless design of the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional remains ever-popular. It has remained largely unchanged in over fifty years of production, especially since it was equipped with the calibre 861. While it is still presented in a stainless steel case and bracelet, it is now powered by the calibre 1861 which offers a power reserve of 48 hours. This is a 20% improvement in the power reserve of the watch that was to mark the last moon landing. Evidence indeed that while retaining all its’ legendary qualities of dependability and durability, the Speedmaster Professional is continuously being made more with the needs of the consumer in mind.

Pictures – omegawatches.com











​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL
FROM THE MOON TO MARS

Following the success of the two Mars Rover projects and the commitment made by President George W. Bush in January 2004, a new impetus has been injected into space exploration with the prospect of a return to the Moon, this time as a staging post for mankind's ultimate challenge - the conquest of Mars. It is to be a highly ambitious project beginning with a robotic exploration of the Moon in 2008, a new Crewed Exploration Vehicle (CEV) in the same year, the first CEV flight in 2014, extended human space missions by 2015 and a return to the Moon by 2020.


Introduced also in 2004, the year that we celebrated the 35th anniversary of the moon landing was a special commemorative of that momentous undertaking. As if Ed White’s walk was not enough, the moon landing further established the Speedmaster its’ special place in watchmaking stardom. Today, the Speedmaster Professional remains as popular as ever and an icon in the OMEGA collection with its "flight-qualified" credentials still serving as a guarantee of its robustness and precision. Having successfully withstood the journey to the moon and a short stay on its surface during various Apollo missions, the Speedmaster could quite conceivably return there with the astronauts in 2020, though as a backup to the X-33 or its’ expected successor. A voyage to Mars would impose new constraints on watches and timekeeping. Indeed, even harsher tests by NASA. In addition to coping with an average temperature of -53°C, as well as local, regional and global dust storms, the Mars watch may also need to take into account the longer Martian day, the "sol", which is equivalent to 1.027 Earth days.


Leaving the designers and watchmakers to ponder these new, tougher specifications, Omega unveiled a special timepiece to record this new turning-point in space exploration. The special-edition Speedmaster "From the Moon the Mars" bears all the hallmarks of the original "Moon Watch", with the same robust case, functional bezel with tachymeter scale and sober matt black dial with luminous baton hands. It also shares the hand-wound calibre 1861 that is legendary among mechanical watch enthusiasts for its precision and reliability, offering a power reserve of 48 hours when fully wound. The transfers of the Earth, the Moon and Mars in the chronograph counters and small seconds counter on the dial clearly indicate the commemorative purpose of this timepiece, as does the inscription "From the Moon to Mars" found on the dial between 3 and 5 o'clock as well as the engraving on the case back. As a further touch of exclusivity, each piece also bears its own individual sequential number on the case back.

Pictures and Text Assistance – omegawatches.com









​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models. Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL MODEL 3573.50

The legendary "Moon Watch" flight-qualified by NASA for manned spaceflight missions in 1965 was the only official watch ever to be worn on the moon. Celebrating its’ fiftieth anniversary this year, the OMEGA Speedmaster remains ever-popular due to its’ timeless, purposeful and attractive design. The Model 3573.50 in a stainless steel case and bracelet in stainless steel uses the calibre 1863 mechanical hand- winding chronograph with hour and minute display, continuous small seconds hand and central chronograph seconds hand. The chronograph is engaged by pressing the start-stop pushbutton at 2 o'clock and stopped by using the return-to-zero pushbotton at 4 o'clock. The 30 minute and 12 hour totalisers are located in the 3 and 6 o’clock positions respectively. Power reserve is a maximum of 48 hours. The luminous hands and hour markers bear Super Luminova inserts as does the pointer section of the central chronograph seconds hand. The time display on the dial is graduated to 1/5th of a second. The tachymeter scale on the bezel allows calculation of a vehicle's speed and a machine's hourly production since the Speedmaster was originally conceived as a “ tool ” watch.

Unique in the current lineup, the Model 3573.50 bears a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal on both the front and caseback of the watch, the latter of which allows an unobstructed view of the decorated calibre 1863 movement with its’ Rhodium-plating, Geneva wave decor, metal brake and the extra 18th jewel. The caseback bears the inscription “ The First And Only Watch Worn On The Moon ” as testimony to the historic achievement of the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional. The screw-in case-back offers water resistance to 50 metres. This unique and desirable edition of the historic Speedmaster Professional is available with a black leather strap and quick-release foldover clasp.

Pictures – omegawatches.com














​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models. Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL MOONPHASE

​

The legendary OMEGA Speedmaster Professional takes on a new guise with a date and moon phase indicator. This is featured at 12 o'clock with a moon in relief against a sky-blue background. In all other respects, this attractive variation on a theme of the Moon Watch retains the classic Speedmaster look with its’ stainless steel bezel with black aluminium ring featuring a tachometer scale. In company with the Model 3573.50, the bezel holds a scratch-resistant and anti-reflective sapphire crystal in place.

As with all the models of the Speedmaster Professional, the characteristic luminous painted hands bear Super Luminova inserts. The chronograph counters are the familiar 30 minute totalizer at 3 o'clock and located at the 6 o'clock position is the 12 hour totalizer, forming a triumverate of counters of the characteristic Speedmaster dial with the continuous seconds counter at 9 o'clock. As a distinctive feature, each of these counters is outlined by an elegant rhodium-plated steel ring. A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment is also used for the transparent case back. It reveals the aesthetic wonder of the OMEGA calibre 1866 hand-winding chronograph movement which delivers a power reserve of 48 hours. A screw-in case-back, featuring the inscription "THE FIRST AND ONLY WATCH WORN ON THE MOON", a reference to the OMEGA Speedmaster being the only official timepiece flight-qualified for use on the moon, ensures water resistance to an equivalent depth of 50 metres. The OMEGA Speedmaster Professional Moon Phase is available in stainless steel accompanied by a matching stainless steel bracelet with safety clasp or a black alligator leather strap with stainless steel quick-release deployment clasp.

Pictures – omegawatches.com















​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER DAY-DATE

​

In meeting the demands for an automatic movement with day and date complications, OMEGA introduced a new generation of Speedmaster Models, the Day-Date with self-winding movement. Whilst retaining as much of the appearance of the original "Moon Watch" as was possible, the Day-Date models with their markedly sports-orientated and modern design were issued in a variety of different colours with redesigned dials as distinguishing touches to the series. The "Automatic Day-Date" version was originally produced with the exclusive OMEGA self-winding mechanical movement calibre 1151 with hour, minute and small seconds hands, 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers. It featured a display of 24 hours, day, date and month. The "Moon Watch"-influenced dial had luminous tritium hour markers as did the original Speedmaster Professional. These models were offered with deluxe bracelets of solid stainless steel links which were similar in design to those of the Speedmaster Professional.

The OMEGA Speedmaster Day-Date was updated for Basel World 2007. Revisions to the range include the use of OMEGA’s calible 1164/3606, a self-winding chronograph movement bearing official chronometer certification and delivering a power reserve of 44 hours. Now with black, blue or silver dials beneath domed sapphire crystals with anti-reflective treatment, they featured further revisions which included a new central zone on the dial, new hands, totalisers, applied indexes and an applied OMEGA logo. The legend which reads " Automatic Chronometer " was also added in the 3 o'clock position. Models were announced in stainless steel, red and yellow gold. New to the line too are the redesigned bracelet with ergonomic contours and models available with alligator straps feature a 19mm fitting between the lugs and 16mm on the twin-button, quick-release deployment clasp.

Models shown ( L to R )
Steel on Steel Reference: 3221.30.00
Steel on Steel Reference: 3222.80.00
Yellow Gold on Leather strap Reference: 323.53.40.44.02.001










Pictures – omegawatches.com













​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER
FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED SERIES PART 1

​

In celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Speedmaster, the first and still the only watch to have been officially worn on the Moon, OMEGA created a Limited Series of 5,957 stainless steel pieces with a special commemorative design of a golden seahorse on the dial. This celebratory momento of the Moonwatch with its' black dial, chronograph counters and tachymeter scale bears as close as is possible, a facsimile of the original hand-winding 1957 Speedmaster. Since the cost of re-introducing the original Lemania movement would be prohibitive in this day and age, the Speedmaster is therefore powered by the proven OMEGA Calibre 1861.

The OMEGA Speedmaster was first introduced in 1957 and designed to measure speed with chronograph and tachymeter functions. With an impressive track record of 11 NASA tests and 6 Moon landings, the Speedmaster has been on every US manned space flight and its’ use on board the International Space Station makes this manual-winding timepiece a cornerstone of horological and space history.

To celebrate its half-century of life, the words ‘50th Anniversary’ were added to crown the golden seahorse which is featured in the 12 o’clock position. The applied OMEGA symbol and name are in red. To ensure maximum legibility in all conditions, the hour and minute hands, the central chronograph seconds hand and baton indexes have been highlighted with Super-LumiNova . Although the original 1957 Speedmaster bore the iconic “Broad Arrow” hands, these were replaced in 1963 with “Dauphine” hands. Being slimmer, they allowed more space on the dial for a clearer view of the three counters with 12 hour, 30 minute and 60 second totalisers that proved vital on the Apollo 13 mission. As a tribute to its space legacy, the hands on this watch are white, just like those on the Apollo 11 mission to the Moon. The Arabic numerals on the counters and on the characteristic black aluminium tachymeter scale on the bezel have been designed with maximum clarity and legibility in mind. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment protects the dial of this Limited Series Moonwatch.

The 42 mm stainless steel case of the Limited Series Moonwatch has inherited the traits of the Speedmaster family with its’ iconic curved and facetted horns and its' large push buttons with which to activate the chronograph. A seahorse medallion has been embossed on the stainless-steel case back as well as the number of the Limited Series 0000/5957 and the words: “FLIGHT-QUALIFIED BY NASA FOR ALL MANNED SPACE MISSIONS. THE FIRST AND ONLY WATCH WORN ON THE MOON”.

The Limited Series Moonwatch is fitted with a stainless steel bracelet that straps to the wrist with a foldover clasp. Given the extraordinary history and achievements of the Speedmaster, this limited Series release is destined to become a coveted collector’s item.

Pictures and Text Assistance – omegawatches.com
















​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.

 

[Houston]

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER
FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED SERIES PART 2

The Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Co-Axial Limited Series
​

In June 2007, enthusiasts of the OMEGA Speedmaster around the world had cause for celebration as the company marked the 50th Anniversary of its legendary Speedmaster Chronograph with a special Limited Series release of the Moonwatch. No other watch has played such a crucial role in man’s quest to conquer space as the Speedmaster. In recognition of this milestone, OMEGA paid tribute to the year 1957 when the Speedmaster was first launched and produced 57 pieces of each of the three gold versions of the Moonwatch and 1957 pieces of the stainless steel model, making this an exclusive and coveted collector’s item.


Although officially “flight-qualified by NASA for all manned space missions” in 1965, the OMEGA Speedmaster had in fact been to space on the wrist of Astronaut Walter Schirra on board Sigma 7 in 1962. It was of course the watch that touched down on the Moon with the astronauts of Apollo 11 in July 1969 and that which saved the day for the crew and all involved with the troubled Mission 13 in 1970. In recognition of the crucial part which the Speedmaster played in the successful return of the crew to Earth, OMEGA was presented with the “Snoopy" Award in October 1970 – the highest honour awarded by NASA astronauts.


In launching this special edition of the 50th Anniversary Limited Series, Omega produced a striking black dial in enamel. Even with today’s technological advances, masterful enamelling remains an art and is the fruit of hours of labour-intensive work and dedication. Enamel fuses to metal surfaces at extremely high temperatures of over 1000° Celsius. To obtain superior results, several layers of enamel are necessary. These are in turn fired and then polished. The rich, inky black dial is the result of mixing metal oxides with the transparent enamel and firing the piece repeatedly until the perfect tone has been obtained.


As a tribute to its lineage, this Limited Series Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch features the original 1957 OMEGA logo applied on the dial. Just below the vintage logo is the Limited Series number 00/57 for the three gold versions of the watch and 0000/1957 in respect of the stainless steel version. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment protects the enamel dial of this Limited Series.

​

With the accuracy of the Speedmaster Professional as worn on that fateful Mission 13 written into the anals of history, the heart of this special anniversary watch beats with even greater precision courtesy of the Calibre 3201 manual movement with Co-Axial escapement. Introduced by OMEGA in 1999, this revolutionary and proprietary technology considerably reduces friction in the mechanical watch movement and thus diminishes the dependence on lubrication ensuring precision time keeping for longer periods of time.


Unique to this edition of the legendary Speedmaster are the status of the movement as a certified chronometer and the superior column-wheel system which drives the chronograph module. This design ensures a smooth start to the sweep of the seconds hand when the chronograph is activated. It also provides precision stop and reset functions that do not interfere with the main timekeeping function of the watch. The screw down glass case back displays the luxurious finish of the movement complete with the blued steel screws, column wheel, circular graining and gold-plated engraving. Geneva wave decoration forms the final exquisite embellishment to this beautiful white rhodium-plated movement.

Innovative changes have also been made to the bracelet. The 50th Anniversary Limited Series Moonwatch has been fitted with OMEGA’s patented “screw and pin” bracelet which was inspired by the first solid link bracelet from the 1960’s. Changing the links of the bracelet to suit the wrist size has never been easier with OMEGA’s ingenious system of discreet screws. This highly fluid and ergonomic bracelet follows the contours of the wrist perfectly and is available in red gold, yellow gold, white gold and steel to match the case material. The links have been beautifully wrought, brushed and polished for greater contrast and effect. In addition to the bracelet, the Limited Series Speedmaster Moonwatch Chronograph comes with a black alligator leather strap with a foldover buckle, which again matches the metal of the case. This 42 mm manual-winding timepiece has a 55-hours power reserve and is water-resistant to 100 metres/330 feet.


Another special feature of the commemorative Moonwatch is the special handmade wooden presentation box with a beautiful marquetry rendition of the seahorse logo on the lid.

​

Included in this Limited Series presentation box are
the watch’s certificate of authenticity
- the black alligator strap
- a series of tools including a magnifying glass for adjusting the length of the “screw and pin” bracelet or for changing the bracelet for the alligator strap
- operating instructions for the tools
and a brochure.


The four feet of the box have been engraved with eight dates, each of which commemorates a moment in man’s relentless quest to conquer new horizons and Speedmaster’s invaluable role during these exploits namely

1957 - the launch of the Speedmaster
1965 - Speedmaster’s first venture in outer space during the Gemini IV spacewalk
1968 - Speedmaster accompanies the Plaisted expedition to the North Pole
1969 - Apollo 11 Moon landing and Moon walk
1970 - the troubled Apollo 13 mission
1975 - the historic USA-USSR space docking on Apollo Soyuz mission
2007 - the 50th Anniversary of Speedmaster
2011 - marking the year in which the SolarImpulse will circumnavigate the globe powered solely by solar energy.


The Limited Series Speedmaster Moonwatch Chronograph offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of space and horological history.

Pictures and Text Assistance – omegawatches.com



















​

Please Note that our Watch Of The Day Threads are created to present the timeless beauty, elegance, functionality and desirability of OMEGA watches. As such, some items may be discontinued and replaced by newer models.
Others however are part of special limited edition production runs.