Famed as the watch that was first worn on the moon during the Apollo moon landings, the Omega Speedmaster has long been known as one of watchmaking's most iconic timepieces. However, while its claim to fame is legendary, it was not originally conceived as a watch for space. Instead, it was a watch designed for race car drivers, hence its name. Launched in 2004 as a Japan-only edition of 2004 pieces, the ref. 3570.40 that we have here is a racing dial variant of the Speedmaster that swaps the Moonwatch's typically refined monochromatic dial for a dial with a little more personality. Based on the 1968 racing dial Speedmaster, the ref. 3570.40 features a manual-winding movement, orange chronograph hands, and a red dial periphery with red five-minute markers that embody the colorful spirit of the 1960s that improve legibility. Linked to the Speedmaster's lesser-known heritage, the ref. 3570.40 is a wonderfully unique watch that will certainly be a fantastic addition to a Speedy fan's collection.

Watch is in excellent overall condition. There are typical signs of use visible on the watch, including small marks and scratches along the case and bracelet. There are some marks visible on the hesalite crystal. Dial in near-mint condition, with no signs of damage or wear. The bracelet has 16 links, 6 removable. There is light stretch.

A wonderfully unusual watch that was only released in Japan, this is a wonderful opportunity to grab a highly desirable and rare variant of the Speedmaster that plays on the timepiece's original design inspiration and use case, car racing. Many examples typically seen on the market are dial swaps or conversions, and it is quite unusual to be able to find an original one as born with box and papers in this condition.