The Omega Speedmaster is arguably the most iconic chronographs ever created. Lets start off with some history. What most people will find particularly interesting is that the speedmaster was never intended for space exploration; At least not initially. It's conception in 1957 was born out of necessity as a tool watch to assist with racing. Hence the name "Speedmaster." This was accomplished by the world's first mechanical wrist watch to feature a tachymeter scale on the bezel itself.
It wasn't until 1963 that the call was made by NASA for a high quality chronograph that was reliable for manned missions into space to which Omega, along with Rolex an many other brands, happily obliged. After being subjected to a battery of tests Omega was crowned the victor with their 3rd generation speedmaster 105.003. As it goes with tool watches, its utilitarian purpose acted as the vehicle of which design elements were incrementally updated throughout the years.
Here we are pleased to offer you a reference 145.022-69. This reference is particularly collectable for a two key reasons. While we lose the infamous caliber 321, we retain the legendary DON bezel which, I might add, is nicely preserved in this example. The second key feature is the retention of stepped dial, a feature recently reinstalled by omegas most modern speedmaster iteration. We could not be more pleased to offer this in our vintage watch shop. Enjoy SCV Fam!
ABOUT THIS WATCH:
MANUFACTURER: Omega
MODEL: Speedmaster
REFERENCE: 145.022-69
SERIAL: 2963xxxx
YEAR: 1969
DIAL: The original stepped dial is in fantastic shape. The dial itself appears to be free of any patina, scratches or blemishes. The original tritium lume has patinated beautifully while the hands have aged a few shades darker which is not unusual for this specific reference. The chrono hand presents with minimal lume loss that can be appreciated under magnification.
CASE: The previously polished 42mm case is in fair shape. The case presents with some rounding of the lugs having lost the original sharp edges on the bevels from previous polishing. The lateral midcase still presents with horizontal brushed finishing. The hippocampus on the screw down caseback is wonderfully preserved. The original DON bezel is in great shape for its age only demonstrating light wear from use throughout the years. The case is completed by the original A3 24 omega crown.
MOVEMENT: Omega manually wound caliber 861. The AD of which the watch was last purchased from stated the watch was serviced in October of 2021 when it was sent back to Omega. The total cost for service was $1,500. This is not documented in any of the paperwork; however, is what the AD stated to last owner upon purchase.
BRACELET: Comes on the pictured leather strap.
ACCESSORIES: Purchase receipt and paperwork from AD.
BOX/PAPERS: No.
BANK WIRE PRICE: $5,200 shipped.
