Introduction
Released in 1957 and based on their earlier chronographs from the 1920s and '30s, the Omega Speedmaster is one of the most iconic chronographs ever. Named after the purpose of the tachymeter along its bezel, the Speedmaster was designed for race car drivers and pilots to time events and make rapid calculations. While these adrenaline-fueled activities might not be for the faint-hearted, they weren't what made the Speedmaster so iconic - that was its use in space and on the Moon. Following a gruelling series of tests with several competing brands, the Speedmaster debuted in space as a piece of NASA standard-issue equipment during the Gemini program of 1965. Today the Speedmaster has many forms, but the Moonwatch is by far the most iconic, with its design standing as the prototypical look of the Speedmaster.
Offered here we have the Speedmaster ref. 310.32.40.50.06.002, which is a modern reissue of the first Speedmaster model that made it into space, which was the ref. 2998 that debuted in 1959 and was produced until 1963. Featuring a stainless steel case with straight lugs, an unguarded crown, and pump pushers, the ref. 310.32.40.50.06.002’s construction is wonderfully elegant and straightforward. Featuring a grey-blue CVD coated dial with luminescent alpha-style hands and a black aluminum tachymetric bezel, the first chronograph to feature it outside of the dial, the Speedmaster ref. 310.32.40.50.06.002 is a fantastically legible, and practical tool watch, which is why ‘Wally’ Shirra decided to wear his Speedmaster ref. 2998 into space in 1962.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Travel Case
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Omega
Dimensions
39.7mm x 13.38mm
Model
Speedmaster "First Omega in Space"
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 3861
Reference
310.32.40.50.06.002
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 2024
Condition
Near mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch and service box
Dial Color
Blue-grey
THE DIAL
Designed with beautifully aged luminescent hour markers and unique alpha hands, the first Omega in Space's blue-grey dial is filled with an uncanny amount of character and charm.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Immediately recognizable thanks to its timeless design, even without its twisted lyre lugs which have since become an aesthetic mainstay of the collection, the Speedmaster is a watch that will forever resonate with watch collectors thanks to its historic achievements and stunning good looks.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall near-mint condition. The steel case shows light marks and signs of careful wear. The case back displays some surface marks, while the backs of the lugs show light scratches from strap changes. The bezel remains near mint. The dial and hands are like new. It is fitted with a brown Omega leather strap and a steel pin buckle, both in near-mint condition with only a couple of light scuffs. Comes with an Omega travel case.
Our Perspective
Sitting among the pantheon of greats, the Speedmaster is as legendary a watch as they come. Its iconic heritage, timeless design, and unique position within human history all combine to create a watch that truly transcends horology, and the ref. 310.32.40.50.06.002 pays homage to where it all began.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
