Omega Speedmaster ‘The First Omega in Space’

Omega pays homage to its storied space exploration legacy with the release of the new Speedmaster ‘The First Omega in Space,’ now featuring a Co-Axial Master Chronometer movement. This modern interpretation reintroduces the design of the reference CK 2998, the second-generation Speedmaster that made history in 1962 as the first Omega to be worn in space by astronaut Wally Schirra during the Mercury program. The 2024 edition seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with modern technological advancements, making it a standout addition to the Speedmaster collection.The symmetrical 39.7mm stainless steel case with a 13.4mm thickness has a polished and brushed finish for a sophisticated yet sporty appearance. The classic Speedmaster design is further emphasized by the dark black aluminum tachymeter bezel, complete with the hallmark “Dot Over Ninety,” a subtle nod to the original Speedmasters from the late 1950s. With a 19mm lug width, this case size strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern appeal.Turning the watch over reveals a caseback that is as rich in detail as the front. Omega has honored its heritage with an engraved Seahorse medallion, one of the brand’s iconic emblems. Surrounding the medallion are inscriptions that read: “SPEEDMASTER”, “THE FIRST OMEGA IN SPACE”, and “OCTOBER 3, 1962,” commemorating the exact date the Speedmaster ventured into space aboard the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission with Wally Schirra.It comes equipped with two piston-style pushers to operate the chronograph functions with a knurled setting-crown in-between them, embossed with the Omega logo. All topped by a hesalite-like shaped sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective treatment on both sides. Water-resistance can reach up to 50 meters (167 feet).The dial of the new Speedmaster ‘The First Omega in Space’ is a beautiful homage to the original CK 2998, blending classic design with subtle modern upgrades. Omega has opted for a captivating gray-blue hue, achieved through CVD-coating, that offers a nod to some of the earlier models from the 1960s. The dial’s sunburst effect adds a dynamic element, changing tones under different lighting conditions, while still maintaining the vintage charm that the Speedmaster is known for.The layout is typical of the Speedmaster’s iconic tri-compax chronograph display, with subdials for the small seconds at 9 o’clock, a 30-minute recorder at 3 o’clock, and a 12-hour recorder at 6 o’clock. These subdials are paired with a white varnished central chronograph seconds hand, enhancing legibility and contrast against the gray-blue background. The hour markers and Alpha hands, filled with vintage Super-LumiNova, give the watch excellent readability in low light, while the clean, sharp dauphine style adds a touch of elegance to its sporty DNA.One of the key historical nods on this model is the use of two vintage Omega logos, one on the dial and another on the crown, paying homage to the brand’s early days of space exploration. Completing the dial is the refined minute track with 3 segments per second, perfectly aligning with the 3 Hz movement inside, ensuring that when the chronograph is used, it provides precise and clear readings. This careful combination of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality makes this dial a standout feature of the new release.

Omega Speedmaster ‘The First Omega in Space’

The Omega Speedmaster ‘The First Omega in Space’ (References below) is powered by the in-house hand-wound mechanical movement, caliber 3861 with 26 jewels with 21,600 vph. It comes equipped with a co-axial escapement and a silicon Si14 balance spring. Power reserve can last up to 50 hours, when fully wound.This watch can be had on either a stainless-steel flat-link bracelet with a micro-adjustment folding clasp or a leather strap, available in brown or black, secured by a steel pin buckle. Both options enhance comfort and provide a secure fit on the wrist, complementing the 39.70mm polished-brushed stainless steel case. For more up to date information visit the official Omega website here.

 

Omega, Speedmaster, Moonwatch, Luxury Watches