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.

Watch is in very good overall condition. The case shows signs of wear consistent with its age, and the edges are soft. The caseback emblem and Speedmaster text is visible but worn. The original "DON" bezel insert has some discoloration and damage on the edges as shown. Please note, Watch comes with a new Forstner (NOT OMEGA) band that has28 links, 13 removable. **For Clarification, 2998-2s typically left the factory with Base 1000 bezels, meaning the current DON bezel is a (slightly) later replacement part.**

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.