The incredible epic of Omega's Speedmaster (Moonwatch)

Through its iconic design, the Omega Speedmaster owes its success to its unique history... Discover it in this article!

1957, the birth of an iconic trio 

In 1957, Omega launches a trio of watches consisting of the Omega Seamaster 300 (CK2913), the Omega Railmaster (CK2914) and the Omega Speedmaster (CK2915), which have since become icons of the brand and the world of watches. 

Promised a great future in space, the Speedmaster was first designed as a sports chronograph inspired by the dashboards of Italian sports cars of the late 1950s. It was then the very first chronograph wristwatch with a tachymeter scale on the bezel and not on the dial (a feature designed to improve the performance of racing drivers) and intended for pilots and speed enthusiasts.

This sporty watch is primarily recognizable for its curved lugs, black dial and wide arrow-shaped hands.

Unfortunately, there are very few examples of this original model remaining, having been produced for onlytwo years ago, almost 60 years ago.

Exceptional features of the Omega Speedmaster

The Speedmaster overcomes all challenges with flying colors thanks to its technical performance which protects it against magnetic fields and shocks, while guaranteeing flawless precision in all conditions. Its movement cadence at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour, ensuring Excellent regularity. In addition, it is equipped with the legendary Omega caliber 321, a mechanism equipped with a column wheel, directly inspired by the Lemania caliber 2310 And used in Omega watches until 1968. Finally, after a complete winding, it offers a 42-hour power reserve, testifying to its watchmaking excellence and unrivaled reliability.

The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch, a major step forward for watchmaking

The Speedmaster's fortunes took a decisive turn in the 1960s. In 1964, NASA launched a rigorous selection program to equip its astronauts with a reliable chronograph. After undergoing extreme tests for resistance to temperature, shock, vibration, and magnetic fields, the Speedmaster stood out and was officially approved by NASA in 1965 for all manned space missions.

The ultimate consecration came on July 21, 1969, when Buzz Aldrin, astronaut of the Apollo 11 mission, set foot on the lunar surface wearing a Speedmaster on his wrist, attached to his suit with a Velcro strap. It thus became the first watch worn on the Moon, forever earning its nickname "Moonwatch." It thus became the first and only watch (still today) to have gone to the Moon. The brand took advantage of this feat to sell its creation by launching a major advertising campaign every July 21 in Switzerland. The watchmaker extolled the excellence and reliability of its watch by loudly proclaiming: "Omega Speedmaster, the watch worn by American astronauts on the Moon."

Later, the Speedmaster was able to accompany other legendary missions, notably Apollo 13 in 1970. Thanks to the precision of their Speedmaster, the astronauts were able to time crucial maneuvers and return safely to Earth, further strengthening the watch's reputation for reliability.

The variations of the Speedmaster

The original caliber 321, the legendary movement that powered the first models, evolved over the years to give way to the manual caliber 861 in 1968, then to more modern versions, such as the caliber 1861 and, more recently, the Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber with magnetic resistance up to 15,000 gauss.

Speedmaster Reduced, a smaller (39 mm) and automatic version of the Moonwatch, but with reduced dimensions.

Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial, a unisex model, a unisex model with Co-Axial automatic movement, water-resistant to 100 meters and equipped with a date.

Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon, a modern watch with a ceramic case (black, white or gray), with a larger diameter of 44.25 mm, suitable for large wrists.

Speedmaster Heritage Models, which includes historical and commemorative reissues such as the caliber 321.

Speedmaster Racing, watch inspired by the collection's sporting origins, with a dynamic design and racing-friendly features.

Speedmaster Chronoscope, an elegant watch with two counters, which combines classic design and modern functionality.

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