The history of the Omega Speedmaster is a tale of remarkable achievements, an impressive heritage, and some of the finest timepieces Omega has ever produced throughout its long-standing history. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the origins of this iconic model, which holds such significance for the brand, and introduce some of the most important and extraordinary versions that have shaped the collection over the decades.
The First Omega Speedmaster: Reference CK2915 (1957–1959)
The story of the Omega Speedmaster begins with Reference CK2915, which was produced between 1957 and 1959 in three different versions: -1, -2, and -3. This reference would soon become the most coveted of all Speedmaster models, as it stood out from all later generations due to its distinctive dial design and key case elements—a 39mm case with a largely unengraved case back.
At this point, however, the Speedmaster had not yet become the watch associated with moon landings and lunar explorations. Its original purpose was quite different, as one of the earliest advertisements for the Omega Speedmaster reveals. Designed primarily for scientists, engineers, and military personnel, the Speedmaster featured a black dial with contrasting white elements, large “Broad Arrow” hands, and a bezel adorned with a tachymeter scale—or, as Omega referred to it at the time, the “Tacho-Productometer” scale.
In another early advertisement, Omega referenced its role as the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games since 1932, further reinforcing the Speedmaster’s practical applications. The previously mentioned Tacho-Productometer scale, essentially a tachymeter scale, was placed on the bezel of the watch rather than on the inner rehaut—a first in watchmaking history. This design played a crucial role, as it allowed wearers to use the central chronograph seconds hand in combination with the sub-dials to measure the speed of a moving vehicle, among other functions.
Omega Speedmaster CK2998: The “First Omega in Space” (FOIS) (1959–1963) / 105.002 (1962–1964)
The second version of the Speedmaster, Reference 2998, marked the beginning of Omega’s deep connection with space exploration while aesthetically moving closer to the timeless character of the later “Moonwatch.” On the dial, the distinctive broad-arrow hands were replaced by much simpler “Alpha” hour and minute hands, while the aluminium bezel, which housed the tachymeter scale, was now coated with a black finish.
The watch gained fame through its wearer, astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirra, who selected this reference as his companion for the Mercury-Atlas-8 mission. During his journey into the unknown, Wally orbited the Earth six times on a mission that lasted 9 hours, 13 minutes, and 11 seconds. Although he only wore the CK2998 onboard his spacecraft, Sigma 7, this model remains the “First Omega in Space” (FOIS). What makes this fact even more fascinating is that Schirra’s Speedmaster CK2998 was a private purchase, not a NASA-certified watch. Nevertheless, it was worn in space nearly two and a half years before the Speedmaster was officially approved for all manned space missions.
Walter “Wally” Schirra
Credit © NASA
Omega Speedmaster 105.003 Pre-Moon (1964–1969)
The connection between Omega and NASA—perhaps the most iconic association between a watch brand and space exploration—was made possible in part by James H. Ragan, a former project engineer and programme manager at NASA. Ragan, who spent four decades testing equipment for NASA missions, was tasked in 1964 with finding a watch that astronauts could wear on their journey to the Moon, as reported by The New York Times. Before starting the procurement process, Ragan consulted the astronauts themselves, asking what type of watch they would prefer to wear. Their answer was clear: a chronograph. However, since NASA was unwilling to allocate budget for the development of a dedicated timepiece, Ragan devised a pragmatic yet ingenious solution. Without disclosing the exact purpose of his request, he approached ten watch manufacturers, of which only Omega, Rolex, Longines-Wittnauer, and Hamilton responded.
Credit © NASA
Hamilton disqualified itself by submitting an impractical pocket watch, leaving three contenders. Ragan acquired three watches from each brand—one for the astronauts, one for testing, and one as a backup. The selected models were the Longines-Wittnauer Reference 235T chronograph, the Rolex Reference 6238 chronograph, and finally, the Omega Speedmaster 105.003, which represented the third generation of the Speedmaster line.
Credit © Phillips | Sabiwatches
NASA imposed stringent requirements on the watches vying for space certification, subjecting them to eleven extreme tests between October 1964 and March 1965:
High-temperature tests: 48 hours at 71°C and 30 minutes at 93°C.
Just like low-temperature tests: 4 hours at -18°C.
Followed by vacuum tests: heating in a vacuum chamber and subsequent cooling to -18°C over multiple cycles.
Their resilience was tested through shocks and strong impacts: six blows from six different directions at 40G.
The watches were tested under high humidity: 240 hours at temperatures between 25°C and 70°C with 95% humidity.
Corrosion test: oxygen atmosphere at 70°C for 48 hours.
Acceleration forces acted on the watches: gradual acceleration to 7.25G for about five minutes, then to 16G for 30 seconds across three axes.
A drop in pressure had to cause no damage during decompression tests: 90 minutes at 10.6 atm and a temperature of 70°C, followed by another 30 minutes at 93°C.
Increased ambient pressure tested the stability of the case: 1.6 atm for one hour.
Continuous vibrations had to have no negative effects: random vibrations on three axes between 5 and 2,000 Hz with an acceleration of 8.8G.
The watches were exposed to high sound pressure levels: 130 dB (frequency 40 to 10,000 Hz) for 30 minutes.
While Rolex failed the humidity and high-temperature tests and Longines-Wittnauer did not survive the high-temperature trial, the Omega 105.003 outperformed its competitors. This outcome may, in part, be attributed to the fact that both Rolex and Longines-Wittnauer relied on the famous Valjoux 72 calibre, whereas the Speedmaster was equipped with the Calibre 321—Omega’s improved version of the Lemania C27 CHRO 12 movement.
Eventually, NASA awarded the Omega Speedmaster with a designation that any marketing department could only dream of—one that would contribute to Omega’s enduring success more than 50 years later: the Speedmaster was now officially classified as “flight-qualified for all manned space missions.” By March 1965, the time had come. The NASA-certified Speedmaster Ref. 105.003 embarked on its first journey into space during the Gemini 3 mission, worn by astronauts Virgil Grissom and John Young. While Wally Schirra was the first to take a Speedmaster into space, it was Edward White who, nearly 60 years ago during the Gemini 4 mission, had the honour of conducting the first spacewalk—also known as an extra-vehicular activity (EVA)—all while exposing his Speedmaster 105.003 to the extreme conditions of outer space, entirely unprotected.
Astronaut Edward H. White II, pilot of the Gemini IV four-day Earth-orbital mission, floats in the zero gravity of space outside the Gemini IV spacecraft.
Credit © NASA
Although the Reference 105.003 never made it to the Moon and thus earned the nickname Pre-Moon, it was nevertheless the precursor to the watch that would ultimately mark the birth of the Moonwatch era: the Omega Speedmaster Professional 105.012, produced from 1964 to 1968, which we will explore in the next section.
The Birth of the Moonwatch: The Omega Speedmaster Professional Reference 105.012
The enduring fascination with the Omega Speedmaster is largely due to the legendary Moonwatch status and its historic connection to NASA—an association that was cemented with the introduction of Reference 105.012, produced between 1964 and 1968. The design of the Reference 105.012 was defined by its asymmetric case shape, which provided added protection for the crown and pushers on the right side against impact. As part of this evolution, the case diameter increased from the previous 40mm of Reference ST 105.003 to 42mm in Reference 105.012, while the case lugs adopted a more curved design. Additionally, for the first time, the dial featured the inscription Omega Speedmaster Professional—a nod to the model’s original professional purpose dating back to 1957. At the same time, the previously used radium-based luminous material, which was harmful to health, was replaced with the less hazardous tritium.
It was with the Reference 105.012 on board that the Apollo 11 astronauts embarked on their historic journey to the Moon on 20 July 1969. Buzz Aldrin, the second man to set foot on the Moon, famously wore his Speedmaster on the lunar surface. Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the Moon, left his Speedmaster inside the lunar module, as the onboard Bulova panel clock had malfunctioned and needed a reliable backup. Meanwhile, the third astronaut, Michael Collins, who remained in the command module, was equipped with a Speedmaster Reference 145.012.
These images show astronaut Buzz Aldrin inside the Apollo 11 Lunar Module and walking on the surface of the Moon during the Apollo 11 extravehicular activity (EVA).
Credit © NASA
The Omega Speedmaster Professional 145.022 (1968–1988): Apollo 13 and the Snoopy Award
The Omega Speedmaster Reference 145.022, which remained in production for an impressive 20 years, marked a technical turning point upon its introduction in 1968. While visually almost identical to its predecessor—apart from the transition to a printed Omega logo instead of an applied one—the true innovation lay beneath the case back. Over the years, this case back featured four different variations, including engravings such as The First Watch Worn On The Moon, APOLLO XI 1969, and the later Omega Seahorse emblem, a symbol of water resistance. From 1968 onwards, Omega equipped the Speedmaster with the Calibre 861—the second movement ever used in the Speedmaster. Compared to its predecessor, the Calibre 321, this movement was structurally simpler, featuring a flat balance spring and a cam-switching chronograph mechanism instead of a column wheel. These modifications enabled Omega to reduce production costs while making the Speedmaster more accessible to a broader audience.
The success of this intentionally timeless design is evident in the fact that, aside from updates to the movement and luminous markers, it remains almost identical to the Speedmaster Moonwatch that Omega continues to sell today. Thanks to its iconic design elements and its remarkable history, the Moonwatch holds an almost sacred status within the watch-collecting community.
The Apollo 13 Mission and the Snoopy Award
With a production span of over two decades, the Omega Speedmaster Professional 145.022 accompanied numerous NASA astronauts, proving itself as a reliable tool in space. However, its most famous test came in April 1970 during the Apollo 13 mission—a mission that nearly ended in disaster. Shortly before the planned lunar landing of the spacecraft Odyssey, a catastrophic incident occurred: more than 300,000 kilometres from Earth, an oxygen tank exploded. This forced the three-man crew to abandon their original mission and shift their focus to a single objective—returning safely to Earth. The explosion severely compromised the spacecraft’s power supply, requiring the astronauts to shut down non-essential systems, including the onboard computer used for timing crucial manoeuvres.
This is where the Speedmaster 145.022 played a pivotal role. To ensure a safe re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, the crew needed to execute a precisely timed engine burn: 14 seconds, with minimal deviation. According to legend, using only their Speedmaster chronographs, the astronauts managed to time the critical window correctly, enabling a successful return.
Apollo 13 pilot John L. Swigert Jr. has just suited up at the Kennedy Space Center during the prelaunch countdown. On his wrist, he wears the Speedmaster Chronograph.
Credit © NASA
Their rescue was successful—on 17 April 1970, the Apollo 13 command module splashed down safely in the Pacific Ocean. In recognition of the Speedmaster’s vital role in the mission, NASA awarded Omega the prestigious Silver Snoopy Award—one of the highest honours the space agency bestows. Today, this award can be viewed at the Omega Museum in Biel.
Credit © NASA
A Selection of the Most Important Speedmaster Models
Unsurprisingly, the Speedmaster Moonwatch has become one of the most significant models in Omega’s history—and also the most enduring, as evidenced by the numerous variations, special editions, and anniversary models released over the years. Below, we highlight some of the most notable models that introduced significant technical innovations, became collector favourites, or simply have remarkable stories to tell.
1968: Reference ST 145.022 Introduces the Racing Dial
Although the origins of this rare Speedmaster model featuring the so-called Racing Dial remain unclear, it is widely believed that its bi-coloured minute markers, orange hands, and distinctive logo were designed to improve chronograph legibility. According to Omega, the vibrant spirit of the 1960s inspired additional variations of the Racing Dial. This particular model later paved the way for further special editions, including a limited series released exclusively in Japan in 2004.
1969: BA 145.022 – The First Speedmaster in 18K Gold
The Reference BA 145.022 was the first Speedmaster crafted in 18-karat gold, produced in a numbered series of 1,014 pieces, distinguished by its rare burgundy bezel. The first watches in this series were presented to 19 astronauts during a gala dinner in Houston, Texas, on 25 November 1969, in celebration of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. Additionally, three watches were awarded posthumously to the crew members of Apollo 1—Virgil Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee.
One of the intended recipients of this special edition was U.S. President Richard Nixon. As the White House was not allowed to accept gifts under its regulations, the engraved model seen in the image was given to the Omega Museum in Biel.
The Alaska Project
The Alaska Project originated from a top-secret collaboration between NASA and Omega, with the ultimate goal of creating the perfect space watch. Starting in 1968, Omega’s engineers dedicated themselves to this challenge, developing a total of four specialised watch models to meet NASA’s stringent requirements for space missions. To achieve this ambitious goal, Omega systematically equipped the Alaska watches with features designed for extreme conditions—such as a brushed case to minimise light reflections, distinctive rocket-shaped hands, and a removable red thermal shield to enhance temperature resistance. The codename Alaska was intentionally chosen to disguise the true purpose of the project in case of industrial espionage. One of these timepieces even made it onto the list of the most expensive Omega watches ever auctioned.
1969: Alaska I
The very first prototype, Alaska I (Ref. 5-003), was developed in 1969, the year of the Moon landing. It featured an oversized 46mm cushion-shaped titanium case surrounded by a removable outer shell made of red anodised aluminium. This protective shield, also known as a thermal cover, was designed to deflect sunlight and protect the movement from extreme heat exposure. This was deemed necessary because, due to the Moon’s lack of atmosphere, it cannot retain heat, causing temperatures to fluctuate drastically depending on the time of day. During lunar daytime, surface temperatures can rise to approximately 127°C, while at night, they can plummet to around -173°C. Other distinctive features of this watch included bright orange hands, reminiscent of Gemini space capsules, and a white dial designed to reduce solar reflection.
1971: The Mark III – The First Speedmaster with an Automatic Movement
“After six Moon landings, there was only one thing left to teach the Speedmaster: how to wind itself.” This was the tagline Omega used to introduce its first Speedmaster with an automatic movement, which was also its first self-winding chronograph. The Mark III, launched in 1971, was a hybrid of the round case first seen on the 1969 Mark II (ST 145.014) and the chronograph functionality that had become a staple of the Speedmaster series. Inside, it housed the Calibre 1040, which operated at a higher frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour) than previous Speedmaster movements. Notable features of the Mark III included a cross-shaped 60-minute chronograph hand and a 24-hour day/night indicator at 9 o’clock, making it one of the most functionally advanced Speedmasters of its time.
1972: Alaska II
Continuing its pursuit of the ultimate space watch, Omega launched the next phase of the Alaska Project in the early 1970s, internally referred to as Alaska II. This iteration combined the technological advancements and design elements developed for Alaska I with the standard Speedmaster Moonwatch case, while also introducing several innovations. Like its predecessor, the Alaska II featured a white dial with oversized, rocket-shaped subdial hands and retained the red thermal shield, which Omega claimed was designed to withstand the extreme temperatures of the Moon’s dark side.
Credit © Phillips
Key updates included luminous markers, radial numerals on the subdials, and a minute track on the bezel—since a tachymeter scale has no practical use in space. To further reduce light reflections, the case underwent micro-bead blasting, giving it a uniform, matte appearance. Only a handful of Alaska II test watches were ever produced, and these were delivered to Houston in the early 1970s.
By way of detours, the ‘Alaska-II’ found its way onto the wrists of Russian cosmonauts and flew into space on the Soyuz 25 mission.
1973: ST 378.0801 – The First Automatic Chronograph with Chronometer Certification
To commemorate its 125th anniversary, Omega introduced the Reference ST 378.0801, the world’s first automatic chronograph to receive official chronometer certification. This was made possible by the Calibre 1041, a chronometer-verified version of the Calibre 1040. Released in 1973 to mark Omega’s founding in 1848, the watch was produced in a limited run of 2,000 pieces. The ST 378.0801 also made its own journey into space—Russian cosmonaut Vladimir Dzhanibekov wore the Speedmaster 125 in 1978 while spending a total of 145 days and 16 hours in orbit.
1975: ST 145.022 – Apollo-Soyuz
The Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP), the first joint spaceflight between the United States and the Soviet Union, culminated in the docking of an Apollo and a Soyuz spacecraft in Earth’s orbit on 17 July 1975. This historic moment allowed astronauts and cosmonauts to transfer between the two spacecraft, symbolising a turning point in the previously divided and competitive space programmes of the two superpowers. For some, the mission was a political triumph, showcasing peaceful collaboration during the Cold War, while others saw it as a pacifist gesture.
Credit © NASA
Omega honoured the cooperative spirit of the project by releasing a limited-edition Apollo-Soyuz Speedmaster, with only 500 pieces produced. This was the first of the so-called Patch Watches, named for the mission emblem at 12 o’clock, which replaced the Omega logo on the dial. Other distinctive features included longer hour markers, broader pushers, and a uniquely designed bracelet. Due to its popularity, this model was developed specifically for the Italian market.
1978: Alaska III
The Alaska Project remained dormant until Omega revived it with the third prototype, Alaska III, marking a departure from the white dial concept. Instead, Omega introduced a brushed stainless steel case with a 42mm diameter, powered by the hand-wound Calibre 861. A distinguishing feature of this model, only noticeable upon close examination, was the large, radially arranged numerals on the subdials. These were specifically designed to enhance readability during extra-vehicular activities (EVAs), or spacewalks.
1980: Reference BA 345.0802 – The First Speedmaster with a Sapphire Case Back
Released in celebration of the 1969 Apollo 11 mission—the historic event during which the Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the Moon—this yellow gold model was also the first Speedmaster to feature a sapphire case back. Produced in a very limited, numbered series of approximately 300 pieces, the watch housed the Calibre 861L, where the “L” denoted the “luxury” version, distinguished by its superior finishing. Unlike the standard Calibre 861, this movement featured 19 jewels instead of 17 and was rhodium-plated—15 years before Omega introduced rhodium plating for its standard Calibre 1861.
1985: Reference ST 345.0809 – The First Speedmaster with a Moon Phase
The first Speedmaster with a moon phase complication followed in the footsteps of the Omega Cosmic from 1947, a model that marked the brand’s initial foray into moon phase watches. As a Moonwatch so closely tied to lunar exploration, this model brought the Moon itself to the wrist with a moon phase display featuring a painted Moon and stars. Produced in a limited series of 1,300 pieces, this Speedymoon lacked NASA’s Flight Qualified engraving on the case back, as its moon phase complication placed it outside the scope of NASA’s qualification process.
1987: Reference ST 376.0822 – The First Automatic Speedmaster
The Reference ST 376.0822 was the first Speedmaster to incorporate an automatic movement within the classic Moonwatch case. Due to its short production run of just two years, tracking down an original piece is an emotional rollercoaster for collectors—ranging from disappointment to elation—earning it the nickname The Holy Grail. Even Omega itself has admitted on its official website that it is still searching for an example to add to its museum collection. The watch’s 40mm case was slightly reinforced to accommodate the automatic movement, while the crown and pushers sat closer to the case than on the traditional Moonwatch.
1991: Reference BA 175.0037 – A Speedmaster with a Perpetual Calendar
To celebrate the 700th anniversary of Switzerland in 1991, Omega dedicated a special edition Speedmaster to this milestone: Reference BA 175.0037. This model combined the elegance of the queen of complications, the perpetual calendar, with a gold dial and a 39mm case. Inside, it housed the automatic Calibre 1160, which integrated traditional chronograph functions with a moon phase and a perpetual calendar programmed until the year 2100. Despite being a tribute to Switzerland, this watch was released in an extremely limited edition of only 50 pieces, exclusively in Japan, where Speedmaster collecting had gained a significant following at the time.
1992: BA 145.0053 – The Skeletonised Speedmaster
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Omega’s Project 27 CHRO C12—the project that led to the development of the Calibre 321, which powered the very first Speedmaster—Omega introduced a highly exclusive skeletonised Speedmaster. Beyond its striking appearance and showcase of craftsmanship, this watch featured the Calibre 867, a movement closely linked to the Calibre 861, the second movement used in the Speedmaster. To fully express the beauty of a skeletonised movement, Omega removed as much metal as possible from the base plate and bridges of the gold-plated movement while retaining its 17 jewels. The remaining structure was then intricately hand-engraved. According to Omega, a single watchmaker required around 150 hours of meticulous handcrafting to complete just one movement. This 18K yellow gold model was limited to only 50 pieces and was also offered in white gold and platinum variations.
1992: BA 148.0052 – The First COSC-Certified Hand-Wound Speedmaster
In 1942, Omega laid the foundation for the development of its legendary Calibre 321 through Project 27 CHRO C12, a movement that would later power the first Speedmaster. In 1992, to mark the 50th anniversary of this milestone, Omega introduced a special model: the Jubilee 27 CHRO C12. For the first time, a Speedmaster featured a sapphire case back, revealing that this was the first hand-wound Speedmaster to receive Chronometer certification from COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres). With only 250 pieces produced, this edition became a highly sought-after collector’s item.
1995: PIC 3595.52.00 – 25 Years of Apollo 13
The Omega Speedmaster played a life-saving role aboard Apollo 13 in 1970, when astronauts relied on it to time the critical engine burns needed for their safe return to Earth. To mark the 25th anniversary of this historic event, Omega released the PIC 3595.52.00, featuring a 42mm case. This model is particularly prized among collectors, as it was the first in what would become a long series of Mission editions. Limited to just 999 pieces, the Apollo 13 anniversary Speedmaster remains one of the most significant commemorative Speedmaster releases.
1995: The Omega Speedmaster MIR
The MIR (Russian for “Peace” or “World”) was a Soviet space station that orbited the Earth from 1986 until its controlled deorbit in 2001. Constructed in orbit from multiple modules launched between 19 February 1986 and 1996, MIR was continuously inhabited until August 1999, except for two short periods. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, MIR became a centre for international cooperation, particularly through NASA’s Shuttle-MIR programme, which allowed Russian cosmonauts to travel to the station aboard Space Shuttle missions. Between 1994 and 1998, the programme comprised 11 missions and represented the first major collaboration between the United States and Russia in space since the Apollo-Soyuz project.
Credit © Wikipedia
In honour of this space station, Omega created a series of 35 MIR Speedmasters, which spent an entire year aboard MIR from July 1993 to July 1994. This experiment helped elevate the concept of a true space watch, as the timepieces were subjected to long-term exposure to microgravity to assess its effects on the movements. After one year in space, all the watches were returned to Omega in perfect working condition. The MIR collection consisted of 35 watches with the following configurations: 10 pieces of Reference ST 145.0022.105.1 in stainless steel with a leather strap, 18 pieces of Reference ST 345.0022.105 in stainless steel with a steel bracelet, 5 pieces of Reference BA 145.0052.035A in gold with a leather strap and 2 pieces of Reference BA 345.0052.035 in gold with a gold bracelet
Credit © Antiquorum
1996: PIC 3810.61.41 – In Collaboration with Michael Schumacher
The PIC 3810.61.41 came from an era when Omega had a strong interest in motorsport and strategically selected brand ambassadors. Alongside Michael Andretti and Ralf Schumacher, Michael Schumacher himself joined Omega in 1996. To celebrate this partnership, Omega launched a special Speedmaster in Kerpen, Germany—Schumacher’s birthplace and the location where he honed his driving skills. This model featured a bold, modern aesthetic, available in both red and yellow versions. It also included a motorsport-inspired minute track and a unique rubber presentation box designed to resemble a Formula 1 racing tyre, complete with Schumacher’s signature.
1997: PIC 3598.50.00 – A Reissue of the Broad Arrow Model
In 1997, Omega paid tribute to the first Speedmaster with a reissue of the legendary Broad Arrow model from 1957. This watch replicated the original design with the exact same dial, bezel, hands, and logo. The Broad Arrow reissue was part of the Missions Set of 1997, a special collection of 22 Speedmasters released to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Speedmaster line.
1997: PIC 3593.20.00 – 40th Anniversary Speedmaster
In 1997, Omega celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Speedmaster with a special edition featuring a cream-coloured dial and, in a bold departure for the time, a sapphire crystal. This anniversary model was limited to just 500 pieces and was available exclusively in Italy. Interestingly, to commemorate the Speedmaster’s 40th birthday, Omega hosted a press conference attended by Eugene Cernan, commander of Apollo 17 and the last human to walk on the Moon.
1999: PIC 3689.30.00 – The First White Gold Speedmaster Moonphase
Released in 1999 to mark the 30th anniversary of Apollo 11, this Speedmaster was exceptional in two ways. It was only the second Speedmaster Professional with a moon phase complication and the first Speedmaster Moonphase to be made in gold—or in any metal other than stainless steel. Its striking design featured a silver dial, blue hands, and a moon phase display with a silver moon against a blue background. Powered by the Calibre 1866, an evolution of the 1985 Calibre 866, this model was exclusively available on a leather strap with a white gold buckle.
2000: PIC 3195.59.00 – 25 Years of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project
In 2000, Omega released a limited edition Speedmaster to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project. This model, produced in only 50 pieces, was crafted from 18K yellow gold and powered by the Calibre 1863. A closer look at the dial reveals the mission name in both English and Cyrillic on the subdial at 6 o’clock, while a special dedication is engraved on the case back. According to Omega, all astronauts and cosmonauts involved in the Apollo-Soyuz mission wore two Speedmasters—one on each wrist.
2003: Reference 3578.51.00 – The First Snoopy Speedmaster
After a period of relative quiet in the Omega-NASA partnership, the Snoopy Speedmaster (Ref. 3578.51.00) made a surprise appearance in 2003. Although it was not released for a specific anniversary, it was dedicated to the Apollo 13 mission. Even its production number—5,441 pieces—was chosen to reflect the mission’s total duration: 142 hours, 54 minutes, and 41 seconds. As with traditional Speedmaster designs, the first Snoopy Speedmaster featured a black dial with baton hands. The standout design element was the Eyes on the Stars inscription on the small seconds subdial, which also featured NASA’s Snoopy Award emblem. The same design appeared on the case back. Inside, the watch was powered by the rhodium-plated Calibre 1861, first introduced in 1997. This was an updated version of the Calibre 861, which had been the standard movement for Moonwatch models from 1968 to 1997.
2003: PIC 3577.50.00 – The Only Speedmaster with Three Different Subdials
Released in 2003, the PIC 3577.50.00 continued Omega’s fascination with Mars, which began in 1998 with the X-33 Mars Watch—a timepiece specifically designed for potential human exploration of Mars. According to Omega, the PIC 3577.50.00 is the only Speedmaster to feature three distinct subdials, each displaying an image of the Moon, Earth, and Mars.
2004: PIC 3569.31.00 – 35th Anniversary of Apollo 11
To commemorate the 35th anniversary of Apollo 11—the mission that saw the Omega Speedmaster become the first watch worn on the Moon—Omega released a limited edition of 3,500 pieces. This model combined a silver dial, highly favoured by Speedmaster enthusiasts, with black subdials. The upper half of the dial featured the date 20 July 1969 in red, while the sapphire case back was adorned with the Apollo 11 mission patch.
2005: PIC 3565.80.00 – 40th Anniversary of Gemini IV
In 1965, astronaut Edward White became the first American to perform a spacewalk—wearing an Omega Speedmaster on his wrist. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Gemini IV mission, and the first time a Speedmaster was exposed to the harsh conditions of outer space, Omega released the PIC 3565.80.00 in a limited edition of 2,005 pieces. The striking blue dial and matching bezel were chosen to reflect the colour of Earth as seen from space. The years 1965–2005 were printed in red on the dial, and the sapphire case back featured the Gemini IV mission patch.
2008: PIC 321.30.44.520.10.01 – Featuring Five Subdials
As the official timekeeper of the 2008 Beijing Olympics—a role Omega first assumed at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics—the brand marked the occasion with this special Speedmaster chronograph, which displayed five subdials. According to Omega, this was the first time five counters had ever been displayed on the dial of a mechanical watch. In tribute to Omega’s 23rd tenure as the Olympic Games’ official timekeeper, the counters were arranged in the shape of the iconic Olympic rings. The functions included a small seconds counter, a 7-day chronograph, a day display, a 12-hour chronograph, and a 30-minute chronograph.
2008: PIC 311.32.42.30.04.001 – The Return of the Alaska Project
In 2008, Omega revisited the Alaska II prototype and released a special edition limited to 1,970 pieces. Inspired by the original Alaska Project, this timepiece once again combined the modified white dial with a removable thermal shield made of anodised aluminium, designed to protect the watch from extreme temperatures in space.
2010: PIC 311.30.42.30.99.001 – The First Speedmaster with a Meteorite Dial
With a dial and subdials made from actual meteorite fragments, the PIC 311.30.42.30.99.001 was quite literally crafted from outer space. Since no two meteorites are identical, each watch in this limited series was a unique piece. According to Omega, this model was created to commemorate the historic moment in 1975 when U.S. astronaut Thomas P. Stafford and Soviet cosmonaut Alexei A. Leonov shook hands in space during the Apollo-Soyuz project. The case back featured an engraving of the American and Soviet spacecraft, along with the names of the astronauts and cosmonauts involved in the mission.
2011: PIC 311.30.42.30.01.003 – 40th Anniversary of the Apollo 15 Moon Landing
This Speedmaster, released as a numbered edition of 1,971 pieces, was created to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 15 Moon landing. Apollo 15 was the fourth of six NASA missions to land on the Moon. The most striking design feature of this watch was the red, white, and blue accents on the dial, inspired by the Apollo 15 mission patch. On the case back, an engraving depicted the lunar rover, which was first deployed on the Moon during this mission.
2012: PIC 311.30.42.30.99.002 – 40th Anniversary of the Last Moon Landing
Limited to 1,972 pieces, this model was rich in symbolic imagery, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the final Moon landing in December 1972. The watch featured a 925 silver dial, embossed with the design of the Apollo XVII mission patch. The artwork symbolised humanity’s ambition to explore beyond the Moon, with an artistic depiction of the view from Apollo towards Saturn and the galaxy. The patch also featured Apollo’s head with an eagle hovering above, its wings incorporating the American flag while touching the lunar surface.
2013: Dark Side of the Moon (Ref. PIC 311.92.44.51.01.003) – The First Speedmaster with a Ceramic Case
The innovation behind the Dark Side of the Moon Speedmaster lay in its material: for the first time, a Speedmaster case, measuring 44.25mm in diameter, was crafted from a single block of smooth ceramic. The dial was also made of ceramic and featured hands in 18K white gold.
2015: Ref. 311.32.42.30.04.003 – The Second Snoopy Speedmaster
After a 12-year hiatus, the second Snoopy Speedmaster made its debut at Baselworld 2015, dedicated to the 45th anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission. The production was limited to 1,970 pieces, referencing the mission year (1970). The Speedmaster Apollo 13 Silver Snoopy Award (Ref. 311.32.42.30.04.003) was slightly thicker than its predecessor, with case dimensions of 42mm × 14.80mm. However, the real highlights were in the design, with a black-and-white colour scheme inspired by the original Peanuts cartoons. On the small seconds subdial, Omega featured a reclining Snoopy with the phrase “FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION!”, a reference to the famous Apollo 13 movie quote. Another nod to the mission appeared between 12 and 13 o’clock with the words “WHAT COULD YOU DO IN 14 SECONDS?”, referring to the critical engine burn that ensured the astronauts’ safe return.
Adding to its uniqueness, Omega used Super-LumiNova, making not only the hands and hour markers glow but also the reclining Snoopy in a bright green hue. Even the ceramic tachymeter scale was coated with luminous material—one of the first times this had ever been done. Turning the watch over revealed a Silver Snoopy Award medallion crafted from 925 silver, coated with deep blue enamel, closely resembling the actual Silver Snoopy Award pin.
2016: Ref. PIC 311.33.40.30.02.001 – A Tribute to the CK2998
First introduced in 1959, the Omega CK2998 remains one of the most sought-after vintage Speedmaster models. Inspired by the original, the modern reissue combined classic design elements such as Alpha and Lollipop hands, a symmetrical stainless steel case, and three blue subdials. The blue theme continued on the bezel, minute track, and leather strap, creating a cohesive and stylish homage to the CK2998.
2016: Ref. PIC 304.33.44.52.03.001 – The First Speedmaster with Master Chronometer Certification
The PIC 304.33.44.52.03.001, a blue moon phase timepiece, became the first Speedmaster to receive Master Chronometer certification. The Master Chronometer certification, introduced in 2015 with the foundation of METAS (the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology), goes beyond the standard COSC chronometer tests. To qualify, a watch must pass eight rigorous tests, evaluating factors such as anti-magnetic properties, water resistance, and power reserve. Master Chronometer watches are characterised by their exceptional precision, with an accuracy of 0 to +5 seconds per day—making them five seconds more precise than the COSC standard (-4 to +6 seconds per day)—as well as their resistance to magnetic fields up to 15,000 Gauss and water resistance up to 200 metres.
2018: The Speedmaster CK2998 Limited Edition
With the Speedmaster CK2998 Limited Edition, Omega continued the legacy of one of its most famous designs in 2018. This reissue draws inspiration from the 1959 CK2998, blending iconic design elements with modern updates. Key features include three black subdials, a minute track, and a polished ceramic bezel with a white enamel pulsometer scale—a signature feature of the CK2998, designed for measuring heart rate. The original model from 1959 offered four different bezel variations: tachymeter, pulsometer, telemeter, or decimal scale, a heritage that the 2018 edition proudly revives. The polished and brushed stainless steel case surrounds a sandblasted, silver-coloured dial with distinctive details: blackened Alpha hands and hour markers filled with Super-LumiNova for optimal readability in the dark. While the subdial hands are rhodium-plated, the red lacquered chronograph seconds hand adds a dynamic touch. The Speedmaster CK2998 Limited Edition was produced in 2,998 pieces.
2020: The Third Snoopy Speedmaster
To mark the 50th anniversary of the Silver Snoopy Award presented to the Speedmaster, Omega introduced the third Snoopy edition, once again honouring the legendary Apollo 13 mission—this time with an intricate technical innovation. On the blue subdial at 9 o’clock, Snoopy appears in his spacesuit alongside the words “50th Anniversary”, reminiscent of the 2003 edition. However, turning the watch over reveals an even more impressive feature: the case back’s sapphire crystal showcases the far side of the Moon, recreated with incredible detail using a microstructured metallisation technique.
But the real magic unfolds when the chronograph is activated—Snoopy, in his command/service module, begins to rise from behind the Moon, traverses the sky, and eventually disappears behind the lunar surface once again. Completing the scene, the phrase “Eyes on the Stars” appears alongside a rotating Earth disk, which completes one full revolution every 60 seconds. This sophisticated animation is powered by the hand-wound Calibre 3861, housed within the 42mm case, featuring Omega’s proprietary Co-Axial escapement. Unlike the first two Snoopy Speedmasters, Omega chose not to limit the production of this model.
2023: The Speedmaster Super Racing
Unveiled in 2023, the Omega Speedmaster Super Racing introduced a groundbreaking, patent-pending Si14 balance spring, enabling ultra-fine precision adjustments. This innovative mechanism allows the watchmaker to fine-tune the stiffness of the balance spring’s attachment point via a regulating system on the balance bridge. Although a minor adjustment, this advancement delivers a bold promise: a certified accuracy of 0/+2 seconds per day—a level of precision that sets a new benchmark in Omega’s chronometry.
2024: Ref. 310.30.42.50.04.001 – The First Standard-Production Speedmaster with a White Dial
In 2024, Omega introduced the first serially produced Speedmaster featuring a white lacquered dial with black hands—a design previously seen only on special editions like the Snoopy models or prototypes from the Alaska series. A preview of this highly anticipated model appeared as early as 2023 when Omega ambassador Daniel Craig was spotted wearing it during the Planet Omega exhibition, further fueling excitement. As it turns out, 007 had known about this timepiece long before the rest of the world.
