Watches | OMEGA
The First OMEGA in Space - Makes a Vintage Return
| 2024-10-04 |     |
One of OMEGA’s most iconic and sought-after timepieces has returned to production – now with a modern Co-Axial Master Chronometer update. Known as ‘The First OMEGA in Space’, the design is a tribute to the brand’s space exploration history. It combines a variety of heritage-inspired details, such as hesalite-like form sapphire crystal, along with the assured quality of METAS certification.
The famous watch, originally identified by its reference number, CK 2998, was first released in 1959, and represented the 2nd generation of the Speedmaster family. It was distinguished by its slender Alpha hands, symmetrical case, and dark bezel, which all differed from the earliest Speedmaster model that was released in 1957.
These details clearly caught the attention of NASA astronaut, Walter “Wally” Schirra, who purchased the model as his own personal watch and wore it on the Sigma 7 mission of the Mercury program, which launched on October 3rd, 1962. In that moment, the CK 2998 earned its nickname, ‘The First OMEGA in Space’, and sparked the legacy of space exploration for which OMEGA is still famous for today.
Since then, the CK 2998 has enjoyed a strong following amongst the most admiring watch enthusiasts and Speedmaster fans around the world. This year’s updated models follow that same 2nd generation style from 1959, each with a symmetrical 39.70 mm case in polished-brushed stainless steel.
The dark bezel ring has been produced in black aluminium, and features the Speedmaster’s essential tachymeter scale, including the “Dot Over Ninety” that is synonymous with the earliest Speedmaster models.
Beneath the brand new hesalite-like form sapphire crystal, OMEGA has included a CVD-coated dial in a grey-blue colour, replicating the tone of some CK 2998 watches produced in the 1960s. Along with hour markers and hour/minute Alpha hands that are filled with vintage Super-LumiNova, the central seconds “Baton” hand is white varnished to match the transferred markings.
In keeping with OMEGA’s brand heritage, the watch features two vintage OMEGA logos, including one on the dial, and another on the crown. The historical celebration then continues on the caseback, where OMEGA has integrated a Seahorse medallion, and the engravings, “SPEEDMASTER”, “THE FIRST OMEGA IN SPACE” and “OCTOBER 3, 1962”.
Of course, just like rocket ship technology, innovation has dramatically moved forward since the 1960s. To give this collection a noticeable engine upgrade, each watch is driven by a Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861. Not only is this the latest evolution of the Calibre 321 that powered the original models, but it offers today’s highest standard of precision, performance, and magnetic- resistance.
Customers have the choice of three new models. ‘The First OMEGA in Space’ can be selected on a black or brown leather strap with a buckle, or on a full metal bracelet with “flat links” and OMEGA’s patented comfort release adjustment system.
Each watch is delivered inside a special presentation box that includes an exclusive LEGENDARY MOONWATCH leaflet inside.