The story of a legend: The Omega Speedmaster
A timeless classic among luxury watches
Few watches have managed to become true legends. The Omega Speedmaster is one of them. It is more than just a timepiece - it is a symbol of precision, innovation and a spirit of adventure. It is best known for its role in one of the most important moments in human history: the first moon landing.
In this article you will learn the exciting history of the Omega Speedmaster – from its origins in the 1950s to its status as a “Moonwatch”.
The Beginnings: The Birth of the Speedmaster
In 1957, Omega launched three iconic watches: the Seamaster 300 , the Railmaster and the Speedmaster . The Speedmaster (Ref. CK2915) was designed as a sports chronograph. Inspired by the cockpits of Italian sports cars, it had a robust design: a black dial, large arrow-shaped hands and a tachymeter scale on the bezel - a first for wristwatches.
It was powered by the legendary Caliber 321, a column wheel chronograph movement based on the Lemania Caliber 2310. This model is extremely rare today and invaluable to collectors.
Omega Ref. CK2915-1 © Image courtesy of Phillips
The Space Era of the Omega Speedmaster
The big turning point in the history of the Speedmaster came in the 1960s, when NASA was looking for a robust watch for its astronauts. The Speedmaster Ref. CK2998 became a favorite. Walter Schirra wore it in 1962 during the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission - the first Speedmaster flight into space.
In 1965, the Speedmaster was officially certified as a mission watch by NASA after a series of tough tests. It was the only watch to survive extreme temperatures, vibrations and vacuum tests without damage.
Omega Speedmaster CK2998 © CHRONEXT
The first watch on the moon
On July 20, 1969, the Speedmaster made history. During the Apollo 11 mission, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin wore the Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 105.012. Aldrin walked on the moon with the Speedmaster on his wrist, while Armstrong left his watch on board because the cockpit module had a technical defect.
These historic moments made the Speedmaster Professional the most famous watch in the world – it became the “Moonwatch”.
Omega Speedmaster 105.012-66 © Bulang & Sons
The Evolution of the Moonwatch
After the moon landing, Omega further developed the Speedmaster without changing the iconic design.
- 1968: Introduction of the caliber 861, a more efficient and affordable movement.
- 1997: The Speedmaster received the caliber 1861 with modern Superluminova luminous material.
- 2014: Omega presented a “complete box” with additional bracelets and tools.
The modern Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 311.30.42.30.01.005) remains true to the original and preserves the timeless design from 1964.
The Secret of Success
The Speedmaster combines precise craftsmanship with an iconic, functional design. Features such as the contrast between the black dial and white hands and the clear arrangement of the subdials guarantee the best possible readability.
Its timeless style and its connection to space travel make the Speedmaster Professional a cult object for watch lovers around the world.
© Omega
The Speedmaster today: Owning a part of history
Omega has continuously expanded the Speedmaster collection. From limited editions like the “Silver Snoopy” to high-tech models like the “Dark Side of the Moon”, there is a Speedmaster to suit every taste.
Prices start at around EUR 4,300 – an investment in a watch that not only measures time, but has made history.
Omega Speedmaster Silver Snoopy © Omega
Conclusion
The Omega Speedmaster is more than just a watch. It is a symbol of pioneering spirit, precision and innovation. Whether as a collector's item or as a daily companion: the Speedmaster remains a timeless classic that fascinates watch lovers around the world.