Lot #2852
Omega Speedmaster CK 2998-3 Fuerza Aerea Del Peru "FAP" Box and Papers Time Capsule
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Introduction
Launched in 1959 and produced until 1963, the Omega Speedmaster ref. 2998 was the second generation of Omega Speedmaster following the launch of the ref. 2915 in 1957. Featuring a stainless steel case with straight lugs, an unguarded crown, and pump pushers, the ref. 2998’s construction is wonderfully elegant and straightforward. Featuring a black 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. 2998 was a fantastically legible, and practical tool watch. The Speedmaster ref. 2998 was so practical, in fact, that it was the first reference of Speedmaster to travel into space. Worn by ‘Wally’ Shirra in 1962, the ref. 2998 is where the Speedmaster’s iconic moon-faring legacy began. Today, it is remembered for its journey into space and impact on the Speedmaster's design with its black bezel and centralized hippocampus and Omega logo on its caseback still featuring in the modern collection all these decades later. Offered here we have an example that was used by the Peruvian Air Force, or “Fuerza Aera Del Peru" as they are known, as shown by the provenance that this example comes with, along with its 'FAP' engraved caseback, which is in keeping with Omega's supply of the FAP with Speedmasters for their servicemen and high-ranking officials in the early 1960s, before Rolex were awarded the contract later into the decade. This particular watch is in our minds the FINEST example of an FAP Speedmaster to ever come up for sale. In imacculate condition and with full provenance, the watch comes with serial number matched hang tag, as well as other associated documentation. Of particular note is a letter from REISER & CURIONI SA, the importer for Omega in Peru. In this original letter addressed to Colnel Nestor Huarco, the deliovery of 380 Omega watches is confirmed, along with their guarantee certificates numbered 1000-1380. A truly historical timepiece with impeccable provenance.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, Guarantee Papers, Delivery Letter
Est. value range
$50,000 – $80,000
The Details
Brand
Omega
Dimensions
39.5mm x 14.4mm
Model
Speedmaster
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 321
Reference
CK 2998-3
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa 1961
Condition
Near-Mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box, papers, hang tags and provenance
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Boasting a uniquely aged dial, this example retains its original luminescent material in its hands and hour markers which have all aged to take on a gorgeous deep orange color that stands in clear contrast to the CK 2998-3's black dial.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Immediately recognizable thanks to its timeless design, the Speedmaster is a watch that will forever resonate with watch collectors thanks to its historic achievements, stunning good looks and links to organisations like NASA and the FAP, as in this example's case. On the wrist, this example's mesmerizing array of colors and iconic construction are a breathtaking combination.
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 near-mint vintage condition. Case is full and thick, with minor signs of surface wear only. The bezel and original "DON" insert are clean with minimal wear along the edge, and no discernible damage to the surface. Original tritium dial with matching lolipop seconds hand and alpha hour and minute hands. The luminous tone is even, with light discoloration visible. Caseback engravings are crisp and clean, with the Hippocampus logo Speedmaster designation and FAP all full visible. Watch comes on a bracelet with #6 endpieces with 26 links total, that fits an approx 7 3/4" wrist. There is minimal stretch to the band The watch is accompanied by a plethora of paperwork including original guarantee booklets, the serial number matched hang tag, as well as delivery paperwork regarding its FAP provenance.
Our Perspective
We are incredibly proud to bring to market this exemplary example of an FAP delivered Omega Speedmaster. Not only is the watch in impeccable condition, but its provenance is further highlighted by the paperwork that accompanies the watch- from the original printed hang tag to the delivery letter from the Omega distributor to a Colonel in the FAP.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
