Introduction
Famed as perhaps one of watchmaking's most universally well-known watches, the Omega Speedmaster became the first timepiece ever to be worn on the Moon following Omega's successful bid for the Speedmaster to become NASA's choice timepiece for their standard astronaut kit. After its successful inclusion in the 1965 Gemini program, the Speedmaster also adorned the wrists of the astronauts during the Apollo moon landing missions, and so, in 1969, following Buzz Aldrin's historic steps on the Moon (Neil Armstrong left his watch on the lunar module) it became the Moonwatch that we all know and love. However, the Speedmaster’s heritage began in 1957 as a terrestrial racing watch, with the ref. 105.012 that we have here, debuting in 1964. This exact variant, however, the ref. 105.012-66 was launched in 1966 and debuted as the first ”Professional” version of the Speedmaster, with the new moniker included on the Speedy’s dial for the very first time. Featuring a new larger 42mm case with twisted “lyre lugs” and new crown guards. Powered by the legendary manual-wind cal. 321, the “Pre-Moon” ref. 105.012-66 was worn by early astronauts following NASA’s acceptance of the Speedy as their space watch and is the only confirmed Speedmaster reference confirmed to land on the Moon, a claim to fame that has earned the Speedy its place within the watchmaking hall of fame.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch only
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Omega
Dimensions
42mm
Model
Speedmaster
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 321
Reference
105.012-66
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1966
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DISPLAY
Featuring a black dial with the first use of "Professional" on any Speedmaster's dial, the ref. 105.012-66 would be a desirable reference for any Speedmaster aficionado, but with its "Dot Over Ninety," of which this example's has faded to an attractive ghostly grey, the ref. 105.012-66 has it all from a display perspective.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Upgraded from the CK2998's 39.5mm diameter, the ref. 105.012-66's 42mm case was a behemoth for the 1960s. Additionally, the ref. 105.012-66 was the first asymmetrical Speedmaster variant with its new crown guards and twisted lyre lugs adding further robustness to its construction.
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 very good overall condition. Case is strong, with sharp edges and full lugs. Bezel and insert are worn, with some marks and dents along the metal rim. Original DON insert is faded with numerous scratches and marks as seen in the images. Original dial in excellent condition with only minor imperfections visible. The minute hand luminous has cracked and is partially missing. Caseback engravings are fully visible.
Our Perspective
Arguably the most important Speedmaster variant ever made, the ref. 105.012-66 ushered in a new dial and case design to the collection while also making the historic journey to the Moon for which the Speedmaster owes its near-unparalleled legendary status.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
