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Be it the first space watch or the first chronograph under the brand, the Omega Speedmaster collection holds various distinctions under its belt. Launched in 1957, it was originally designed as a chronograph for racing and sports but it soon found its place in history through its association with NASA. By 1965, the Speedmaster had passed rigorous testing and was officially "Flight Qualified for All Manned Space Missions." This certification led to its selection as the official watch for NASA astronauts, including during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, when it became the first watch worn on the moon and remains the only watch certified by NASA for all manned space missions.
Design And Iterations
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional is renowned as the only watch certified for Extravehicular Activity (EVA), highlighting Omega's commitment to precision since the original Speedmaster's introduction in 1957. Its design has largely remained consistent, featuring a 42mm stainless steel case, hesalite crystal, and tachymeter bezel, underscoring its enduring legacy and functionality. In contrast, the "Dark Side of The Moon" model, crafted entirely from black ceramic, offers a modern take on the Speedmaster design, paying homage to the Apollo 8 astronauts. The watch combines durability with high-contrast display elements for optimal legibility.
Meanwhile, the Speedmaster '57 Two Counter, introduced in 2013, and the Speedmaster Racing, revived in 2012, celebrate Omega's roots in auto racing with various models featuring vintage-inspired designs and advanced chronograph functions. The Speedmaster 38, with its refined 38mm case and in-house calibre 3330, continues the Speedmaster tradition with enhanced wearability and precision. The Heritage series reinterprets the legacy of the "First Omega in Space" chronograph, combining classic design elements with modern technology across its sub-collections. Notably, the Speedmaster Moonwatch Calibre 321 honours the original Moonwatch by featuring the same movement used in the historic model.