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. However, some visually unique Speedmasters do certainly exist, one of which being the 35th Apollo XI Anniversary Speedmaster ref. 3569.11 that we have here. Launched in 2004 as a limited edition release of just 3500 pieces, this reference was one of just three panda dialled Speedmasters to exist, and celebrated Apollo XI’s 1969 landing on the moon some 35 years prior. Boasting a white dial with black subdials and the date of the Apollo XI mission it commemorates in red script at 12 o’clock, this reference is an ultimate “if you know you know” type of timepiece that would make an excellent addition to any collection.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Omega
Dimensions
42mm
Model
Speedmaster Apollo XI 35th Anniversary
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 1861
Reference
3569.31
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
2004
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
Standing as one of the very few white-dialled Speedmasters, the ref. 3569.11 boasts black subdials for a panda layout and a red inscription at 12 o'clock showing the date of when Apollo XI first landed on the Moon.
THE CASEBACK
While the Speedmaster's caseback is normally commemorative, this anniversary edition adds another dimension to its look with a full-color image of the Moon's surface with an Eagle descending upon it as an homage to America winning the space race.
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 excellent overall condition. Case exhibits signs of surface wear, with scratches and marks visible along the case- particularly along the polished chamfer. There is some edge wear visible along the bezel as well. Dial near-mint with little to no signs of age. The bracelet has 17 links total, 7 of which are removable. The bracelet fits an approx 7 1/2" wrist and shows some surface wear and minor stretch.
Our Perspective
Combining the Speedmaster's heritage with a unique design through some new design elements, such as its white panda dial and commemorative case, the ref. 3569.31 is a unique Speedmaster that celebrates one of humanity's greatest achievements.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
