Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space

The Omega Speedmaster. A name that echoes through the halls of horological history, forever intertwined with mankind's giant leap into the cosmos. More than just a chronograph, it's a symbol of human ambition, precision engineering, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Now, Omega revisits its spacefaring legacy with the release of the Speedmaster "First Omega in Space" watches, a trio of timepieces that pay homage to the Speedmaster CK 2998, the watch that boldly ventured where no timepiece had gone before.

Before Neil Armstrong etched his footprint on the lunar surface, before the Speedmaster became synonymous with the Apollo missions, there was Walter "Wally" Schirra, a pioneering astronaut with a keen eye for quality timekeeping. In 1962, during the Mercury program's Sigma 7 mission, Schirra chose to wear his personal Speedmaster CK 2998, a second-generation model distinguished by its sleek design and Alpha hands. As Schirra orbited the Earth, his Speedmaster became the first Omega in space, cementing its place in both horological and exploratory history.



The new Omega Speedmaster "First Omega in Space" collection captures the essence of that groundbreaking CK 2998, retaining its vintage charm while incorporating modern advancements in watchmaking technology. Available in three distinct variations, each with its own unique personality, these watches are a testament to Omega's commitment to preserving its heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

The visual appeal of the Speedmaster "First Omega in Space" is undeniable. The polished and brushed stainless steel case, measuring a versatile 39.70 mm in diameter, exudes a refined, understated elegance. The black aluminum bezel, featuring the indispensable tachymeter scale with the signature "Dot Over Ninety," adds a sporty touch, a nod to the Speedmaster's racing heritage.

Beneath the hesalite-like form sapphire crystal, the grey-blue dial, achieved through a CVD coating process, evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of some CK 2998 models from the 1960s. The vintage Super-LumiNova filled Alpha hands and hour markers provide excellent legibility in low-light conditions, while the white varnished central seconds "Baton" hand adds a touch of classic contrast. The subdials, arranged in a traditional 3-6-9 configuration, display a 30-minute recorder, a 12-hour recorder, and a small seconds subdial, respectively.

Adding to the watch's historical significance, a vintage Omega logo graces both the dial and the crown. The caseback further celebrates the brand's heritage with a beautifully rendered Seahorse medallion and engravings commemorating the Speedmaster's pioneering journey into space: "SPEEDMASTER," "THE FIRST OMEGA IN SPACE," and "OCTOBER 3, 1962."



While the Speedmaster "First Omega in Space" collection pays tribute to the past, it's powered by a movement that represents the pinnacle of modern watchmaking. The Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, a descendant of the legendary Calibre 321 that powered the original Speedmaster, ensures exceptional accuracy, reliability, and magnetic resistance. This movement is a testament to Omega's relentless pursuit of precision and performance, a legacy that began with the Speedmaster's journey into space.

The Speedmaster "First Omega in Space" collection offers three distinct variations to cater to individual preferences. The reference 310.30.40.50.06.001, priced at $7,900, comes with a stainless steel bracelet, offering a sleek and sporty aesthetic. For those who prefer a more classic look, the reference 310.32.40.50.06.002, priced at $7,500, features a brown leather strap, while the reference 310.32.40.50.06.001, also priced at $7,500, comes with a black leather strap. Each variation offers a unique expression of the Speedmaster's enduring legacy.

One of the defining features of the "First Omega in Space" watches is the hesalite-like form sapphire crystal. Hesalite, a type of acrylic crystal, was used in the original Speedmaster models due to its shatter-resistant properties. While sapphire crystal offers superior scratch resistance, Omega has managed to recreate the unique domed shape and warm visual effect of hesalite using sapphire, providing the best of both worlds: durability and vintage charm. This attention to detail demonstrates Omega's commitment to preserving the historical accuracy of the design while benefiting from modern material advancements.



The grey-blue dial, achieved through a Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) process, is more than just a pretty face. This intricate technique ensures a uniform and durable coating, replicating the distinctive tones found in some vintage CK 2998 models. The dial's matte finish provides a perfect backdrop for the contrasting elements, enhancing legibility and visual interest.

The Alpha hands, a hallmark of the second-generation Speedmaster, are filled with vintage Super-LumiNova, a luminescent material that emits a warm, creamy glow in low-light conditions. This vintage-inspired lume complements the overall aesthetic while ensuring optimal readability. The white varnished central seconds "Baton" hand adds a subtle touch of contrast, further enhancing the dial's visual appeal.

The 39.70 mm stainless steel case is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, featuring a combination of polished and brushed surfaces that create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The symmetrical lugs, a defining characteristic of the CK 2998, ensure a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes. The polished bezel, crafted from black aluminum, provides a sleek backdrop for the tachymeter scale, an essential tool for measuring speed and distance.

The crown, adorned with a vintage Omega logo, is not just a functional element but also a nod to the brand's rich history. Its knurled texture provides excellent grip, making winding and setting the time a tactile pleasure. The pushers, located at 2 and 4 o'clock, activate the chronograph functions with a satisfyingly crisp feel.



At the heart of the "First Omega in Space" watches beats the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, a movement that embodies Omega's commitment to precision and performance. This manually wound movement is a direct descendant of the legendary Calibre 321, which powered the original Speedmaster worn by astronauts during the Apollo missions.

The Calibre 3861 features Omega's Co-Axial escapement, a revolutionary technology that reduces friction and wear, resulting in enhanced accuracy and longevity. It also boasts a Master Chronometer certification, meeting the stringent standards set by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). This certification guarantees exceptional performance in terms of accuracy, precision, and magnetic resistance, ensuring that the watch can withstand the rigors of everyday wear and tear, even in challenging environments.

The "First Omega in Space" collection offers a variety of strap and bracelet options to cater to individual preferences. The stainless steel bracelet, available on the reference 310.30.40.50.06.001, priced at $7,900, provides a sporty and robust option, perfect for everyday wear. The brushed and polished links create a visually appealing contrast, complementing the case's finishing.

For those who prefer a more classic look, the brown leather strap, featured on the reference 310.32.40.50.06.002, priced at $7,500, offers a touch of vintage elegance. The black leather strap, available on the reference 310.32.40.50.06.001, also priced at $7,500, provides a more understated and versatile option. All straps are equipped with a stainless steel buckle, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.



The Omega Speedmaster "First Omega in Space" watches are more than just timekeeping instruments; they are a testament to Omega's rich heritage and unwavering commitment to innovation. By combining vintage design elements with cutting-edge technology, Omega has created a collection that appeals to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the world of horology.

These watches capture the spirit of exploration and adventure that has defined the Speedmaster since its inception. They are a reminder that even in the age of smartwatches and digital displays, there is still a place for mechanical timepieces that embody craftsmanship, precision, and a connection to history.