Technology

Omega Revives Historic Speedmaster: The Watch That Went to Space!

2024-10-07

Author: Wei

Omega Revives Historic Speedmaster: The Watch That Went to Space!

Omega, the prestigious Swiss watchmaker renowned for creating the first-ever watches worn on the moon, is taking a giant leap back in time with the relaunch of "The First Omega in Space" (FOiS). This commemorative timepiece marks an important milestone in the watchmaker’s legacy of space exploration and innovation.

Originally released in 1959 with the reference number CK 2998, the FOiS represents the second generation of the iconic Speedmaster series. It immediately captivated watch enthusiasts with its elegant design, featuring slender Alpha hands, a symmetrical case, and a striking dark bezel. However, it was astronaut Walter "Wally" Schirra who truly propelled this timepiece into the spotlight. Schirra sported the watch during NASA's Sigma 7 mission of the Mercury program, which launched on October 3, 1962, earning the model its legendary title as "The First Omega in Space."

The revamped FOiS skillfully mimics the aesthetic of the vintage CK 2998. With a refined 39.7mm symmetrical stainless steel case and a 'Dot-Over-Ninety' tachymeter bezel made from black aluminum, it combines nostalgia with modern refinement. Thinner than its predecessor at 13.4mm (down from 14mm), the watch also boasts a lug-to-lug measurement of 48mm and is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear.

Under the specially crafted "hesalite-like form sapphire crystal," the watch features a new CVD-coated grey-blue dial that echoes the allure of vintage CK 2998 timepieces from the 1960s. The hour markers and Alpha hands are adorned with vintage-inspired, yellow-toned Super-LumiNova, while the central seconds hand maintains a classic white varnish to complement the transferred markings.

Notable touches include two vintage Omega logos—one on the dial and the other proudly displayed on the crown. The case back is adorned with a Seahorse medallion, etched with "Speedmaster, The First Omega in Space" along with the date October 3, 1962, commemorating this important moment in history.

Moreover, in a nod to superior modern engineering, the watch is equipped with the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, which powers nearly all manual Speedmaster models today, providing exceptional accuracy and performance.

Collectors and space aficionados alike will be thrilled to know that the FOiS is available in three options: a full metal bracelet priced at S$11,450, or a stylish black or brown leather strap for S$10,950. Each watch comes in a luxurious presentation box, which includes an exclusive Legendary Moonwatch leaflet, making it a perfect addition to any watch lover’s collection.

This relaunch not only pays homage to Omega’s stellar history but also repositions it into the contemporary luxury watch market with style and precision. Don't miss out on the chance to own a piece of history!