History and Origin of the Omega Speedmaster
The Omega Speedmaster is one of the most iconic and enduring watch models in the world. First introduced in 1957, the Speedmaster quickly gained a reputation as a reliable and accurate timepiece, thanks to its robust construction and innovative design features. Originally created for motorsports and aviation enthusiasts, the watch would soon become an integral part of space exploration history.
The story of the Omega Speedmaster's involvement with space exploration began in 1962, when astronaut Walter Schirra wore a personal Speedmaster during the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission. However, it was during the Gemini 3 mission in 1965 that the Speedmaster earned its official status as NASA's preferred watch for all manned space missions.
In the years that followed, the Speedmaster would be worn on all of NASA's Apollo missions, including the historic Apollo 11 mission that landed humans on the moon for the first time in 1969. It was on this mission that the Speedmaster earned its nickname, the "Moonwatch," as it was the watch worn by Buzz Aldrin as he took his first steps on the lunar surface.
Features and Design
The Omega Speedmaster's enduring popularity can be attributed in part to its sleek and timeless design. The watch features a classic round case with a black dial and three sub-dials that display the chronograph functions. The hands and indices are coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring optimal legibility in low-light conditions. The watch also features a tachymeter scale on the bezel, which allows the wearer to measure speed based on time elapsed over a known distance.
One of the most notable features of the Speedmaster is its manual-winding movement, which provides unparalleled precision and reliability. The watch also features a Hesalite crystal, a type of acrylic that is highly scratch-resistant and has a unique visual texture.
Over the years, the Speedmaster has undergone numerous updates and refinements, while still maintaining its classic design and functionality. Today, the Speedmaster is available in a variety of models, including the Speedmaster Professional, the Speedmaster Racing, and the Speedmaster Moonwatch.
Special Editions
In addition to its standard models, the Omega Speedmaster has been released in a number of special edition versions over the years. These special editions are often designed to commemorate important milestones in the watch's history, as well as celebrate the watch's enduring popularity.
One of the most notable special editions of the Speedmaster is the "Snoopy" edition, which was released in 2003 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission. The watch features a special caseback design featuring Snoopy, the beloved Peanuts character, and the text "Eyes on the Stars" and "Time for Peace." The watch also features a silver dial and blue sub-dials, as well as a blue bezel.
Another notable special edition of the Speedmaster is the "Dark Side of the Moon" edition, which was released in 2013. The watch features a black ceramic case and dial, with a matte finish that gives it a sleek and modern appearance. The watch also features a black nylon strap with red stitching, adding to its sporty and stylish aesthetic.
The Continuing Legacy of the Omega Speedmaster
The Omega Speedmaster has enjoyed a long and storied history, but it's also a watch that's continually evolving. As the watch approaches its 70th anniversary, Omega is exploring new ways to update and refine the Speedmaster while still honoring its classic design and functionality.
One example of this is the recent release of the Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Master Chronometer. This updated version of the Moonwatch features a new movement with a Co-Axial escapement and Master Chronometer certification, ensuring superior accuracy and performance. The watch also features a sapphire crystal that replaces the Hesalite crystal of previous models.
Another recent addition to the Speedmaster lineup is the Speedmaster Apollo 8 "Dark Side of the Moon" edition, which features a unique skeletonized dial that allows the wearer to see the movement at work. The watch also features a black ceramic case and a black nylon strap with yellow stitching, giving it a bold and modern appearance.
Lately, the Omega Speedmaster design was also used by Swatch to create the MoonSwatch Collection which includes 11 "Speedmamster MoonSwatch", an affordable model that can be found in several Swatch Stores for a retail price of 260€...
Despite these updates and innovations, the Omega Speedmaster remains true to its roots. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a motorsports fan, or simply a lover of classic timepieces, the Speedmaster's enduring legacy makes it a watch that will continue to inspire and captivate for generations to come.
Regarding the Value
The Omega Speedmaster is a highly coveted watch among collectors and enthusiasts, and its retail value reflects its popularity and enduring legacy. Depending on the model and features, a new Omega Speedmaster can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000 or more.
When it comes to the resell market, the Omega Speedmaster also commands high prices. If you take a look at Chrono 24, the average resale value of a pre-owned Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch with a Hesalite crystal ranges from $4,000 to $5,500, while a pre-owned model with a sapphire crystal can fetch between $5,000 to $7,000. Special edition models or rare vintage versions can command even higher prices, with some models selling for well over $10,000.
Of course, the resale value of a watch can fluctuate depending on various factors, such as its condition, age, and rarity. However, the enduring popularity and timeless design of the Omega Speedmaster ensure that it remains a valuable and sought-after timepiece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.