Omega Speedmaster Ref. CK2998, ca. 1960

Price upon request

Identity

Omega Speedmaster Ref. CK2998, ca. 1960. Calibre 321 manual-winding movement, column-wheel chronograph. Symmetrical straight-lug steel case, 39 mm diameter, 19 mm lug width, signed crown. Black tachymeter bezel graduated to 500. Black dial, applied Omega logo, registers at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock, without Professional inscription. Alpha hands. Hesalite crystal. Omega steel bracelet and monogrammed deployant clasp.

Horological context

The Speedmaster was launched by Omega in 1957 within its Professional line, designed for motorsport: the first wristwatch to carry its tachymeter scale on the bezel rather than the dial. A three-register chronograph driven by the calibre 321 (from 1957 to 1968), then by the calibre 861 from 1968 onwards. The asymmetric case with shoulders protecting the crown and pushers appeared in 1963 with reference 105.012 — the very one that would reach the Moon. On 1 March 1965 the Speedmaster officially became the chronograph qualified by NASA for all manned missions, after a battery of extreme tests. On 21 July 1969 it was the first watch worn on the Moon during Apollo 11, earning its Moonwatch nickname and its standing as a legendary model. The following year, during the Apollo 13 emergency, the crew used it to manually time the engine burn decisive for their return; NASA then awarded Omega its Silver Snoopy Award. Collectors distinguish the pre-Moon models, made before July 1969, from the Moonwatch proper.

Character

Black dial with applied Omega logo and pre-Professional configuration, tritium indexes and hands with patina. Black tachymeter bezel with chocolate patina. Straight-lug case, case back engraved with the Omega seahorse, one of the most sought-after silhouettes of the Speedmaster line.

Watch fully serviced. Patina and natural wear consistent with age. Delivered with its original Omega box and the Contre-Temps 24-month warranty certificate. Leather strap available as an alternative to the steel Omega bracelet.