With a history stretching over 60 years, the Omega Speedmaster Professional is the stuff of horological legend. More than just a watch, it’s a symbol of exploration, precision, and enduring design. This time, we delve deep into the history of the legendary Speedy, examining its evolution from its humble beginnings to its iconic status as the only watch certified for spaceflight by NASA. We'll explore various aspects of its rich past, including key model variations, price fluctuations, reference numbers, and its pivotal role in humanity's journey to the moon.
Omega Speedmaster Models by Year:
Charting the complete history of every Speedmaster model produced is a monumental task, given the sheer number of variations and limited editions released over the decades. However, we can highlight some key milestones and significant releases by year, focusing on the Professional line and its most influential predecessors:
* 1957: The birth of the Speedmaster. Omega introduces the CK2915, the first watch to bear the "Speedmaster" name. This original model, with its broad arrow hands and tachymeter bezel, laid the foundation for the iconic design. It wasn't specifically designed for space travel, but its robust construction and features proved crucial in its later destiny.
* 1959: The CK2998 is introduced, refining the Speedmaster design with a more refined bezel and updated dial. This model further solidified the Speedmaster's identity as a high-performance chronograph.
* 1960s: Several iterations of the Speedmaster are released, each incorporating subtle improvements and variations. This period sees the evolution of the design elements that would become synonymous with the Moonwatch.
* 1965: The reference 105.003, a pivotal model in Speedmaster history, emerges. This is the first Speedmaster to feature the now-iconic "dot over ninety" bezel, a detail that became a key identifier of the Moonwatch lineage.
* 1968: The Speedmaster Professional reference 105.012 becomes the official watch of NASA, paving the way for its historic lunar missions. This model, worn by Buzz Aldrin on the Apollo 11 mission, cemented its place in history.
* 1970s - 1990s: The Speedmaster Professional continues to be refined, with variations in movements, case materials, and dial configurations. Several limited editions and special releases are introduced, catering to collectors and enthusiasts.
* 1998: Omega celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission with the release of several commemorative Speedmaster models.
* 2000s - Present: Omega continues to produce the Speedmaster Professional, alongside numerous limited editions, collaborations, and updated variations. The core design remains largely unchanged, a testament to its enduring appeal and functional excellence.
Omega Speedmaster Models History:
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