The Omega Speedmaster: A Chronograph with a Stellar Legacy

Omega Speedmaster

Photo by Dighini on Pixabay

The Omega Speedmaster is a chronograph wristwatch that has carved a distinct niche in the horological world. Its rich history dates back to 1957 when it was unveiled as a sports and racing chronograph, supplementing Omega's status as the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games. Today, it enjoys the eminent title of the 'Moonwatch', being the first watch worn on the moon. Let’s delve into the captivating journey of this iconic timepiece.

The Genesis of the Speedmaster

The inception of the Omega Speedmaster can be traced back to the late 1950s. Its name, 'Speedmaster', was a nod to its innovative tachymeter scale bezel, a feature that was then a novelty in watchmaking. The first model, christened CK 2915, was designed by the Swiss designer Claude Baillod and introduced some of the design elements that have now become synonymous with the Speedmaster, such as the triple-register chronograph layout, high-contrast index markers, and the domed Plexiglas crystal.

The CK 2915, also known as the 'Broad Arrow', had a steel case with a diameter of 39 mm, and it featured a steel bezel with engraved black print. The movement powering this inaugural model was the Calibre 321, a joint development between Omega and its subsidiary, Lemania.

The Journey into Space

The connection between the Speedmaster and space exploration was not a planned association. However, the watch's robust construction, precision, and ease of operation under extreme conditions made it the ideal choice for astronauts. The first Omega Speedmaster to journey into space was in 1962 on the wrist of astronaut Walter Schirra during his Mercury-Atlas 8 mission. This marked the beginning of the Speedmaster's illustrious space-faring legacy.

The Speedmaster underwent an official selection process by NASA in 1964. It was subjected to a series of gruelling tests designed to simulate the harsh conditions of space. After enduring high and low temperatures, pressure variations, intense shocks, and rigorous vibrations, the Speedmaster emerged victorious, and in 1965 it was officially certified by NASA for all manned space missions.

The Apollo Missions and the Moon Landing

The Omega Speedmaster truly cemented its place in history during the Apollo missions. On July 20, 1969, as part of the Apollo 11 mission, astronaut Buzz Aldrin stepped onto the lunar surface with his Omega Speedmaster strapped to his wrist, hence earning the watch its nickname, the 'Moonwatch'. Although Neil Armstrong was the first to set foot on the moon, he had left his Speedmaster in the Lunar Module as a backup, making Aldrin's Speedmaster the first watch worn on the moon.

The Speedmaster continued to play a crucial role in subsequent Apollo missions. Most notably, during the Apollo 13 mission in 1970, astronaut Jack Swigert used his Speedmaster to accurately time a critical engine burn, a manoeuvre that ultimately helped the crew return safely to Earth after an oxygen tank explosion crippled their spacecraft. In recognition of this feat, Omega was awarded the Snoopy Award by the Apollo 13 astronauts.

The Evolution of the Speedmaster

The Omega Speedmaster has undergone several modifications over the years while preserving its core design elements. In 1959, a second version, the reference CK 2998, was introduced. This model featured alpha hands and a black aluminium bezel to enhance readability. The case diameter was increased to 40 mm, and for the first time, Omega added an O-ring gasket around the push buttons to improve water resistance.

In 1968, Omega replaced the Calibre 321 with the Calibre 861, a more accurate and cost-effective movement. This new movement was also manufactured by Lemania and was used in the Speedmaster Professional models from 1968 to the present day. The modern versions of the Speedmaster are powered by the Calibre 1861, a rhodium-plated variant of the Calibre 861.

The Speedmaster Professional: A Timeless Classic

The Omega Speedmaster Professional, also known as the 'Moonwatch', remains the most iconic model in the Speedmaster line. It retains the classic 42 mm asymmetrical case, triple-register chronograph layout, and high-contrast index markers. This model has been continuously produced since 1968 and is still one of the few watches qualified by NASA for spaceflight and extra-vehicular activities.

In 2021, Omega introduced the Speedmaster Moonwatch Master Chronometer, an updated version of the standard Speedmaster Professional featuring a new movement and subtle design enhancements. This model is powered by the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, reflecting Omega's commitment to continually elevate the functional aspects of the Speedmaster Professional.

The Speedmaster "Reduced"

In 1988, Omega launched the Speedmaster Automatic, informally known as the Speedmaster 'Reduced'. This model was designed as a smaller, more affordable option of the Omega Speedmaster, with a case diameter of 39 mm as opposed to the 42 mm of the Speedmaster Professional. Despite its smaller size and lower price point, the Speedmaster 'Reduced' retained the iconic design elements of the Speedmaster line.

Omega Speedmaster Reduced Olympic Edition

The Speedmaster and Motor Racing

The Omega Speedmaster also has strong ties to motor racing. The 'Racing' models of the Speedmaster, with their sporty dial designs and high-precision chronograph functions, have been favoured by race car drivers. Notably, Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher was a key representative for Omega in the early 2000s and had his own dedicated line of Speedmaster models.

The Speedmaster Today: A Legacy Continued

Even after more than 60 years since its inception, the Omega Speedmaster continues to be a revered timepiece in the world of horology. It has remained faithful to its original design while incorporating modern technological advancements. Whether it's the Speedmaster Professional "Moonwatch", the 'Reduced', or the 'Racing' models, each Speedmaster carries with it the legacy of a timepiece that has not only graced the wrists of astronauts and race car drivers but has also played a pivotal role in some of history's iconic moments.

The Omega Speedmaster's journey from a sports and racing chronograph to the first watch worn on the moon is a testament to Omega's commitment to precision, innovation, and timeless design. Today, whether on an astronaut's wrist orbiting the earth or on the wrist of a watch enthusiast, the Speedmaster continues to symbolize a pioneering spirit that transcends time and space.