A Legacy in Space Exploration

On October 3rd, 1962, history was made when Walter Schirra wore his personal OMEGA Speedmaster CK 2998 on the Sigma 7 mission of the Mercury program, making it the first OMEGA watch worn in space. To honor this pioneering timepiece, OMEGA has dropped a modern re-interpretation, “The First Omega in Space”, which stays true to the design and spirit of the original while incorporating the latest advancements in watchmaking.

Case and Bracelet:

The 39.70mm stainless steel case features a mix of polished and brushed finishes, enhancing its vintage-inspired aesthetic. The watch is equipped with a “flat links” bracelet that includes OMEGA’s patented comfort release adjustment system, ensuring a perfect fit. This combination of heritage styling and modern ergonomics makes the CK 2998 tribute both historically significant and comfortable for everyday wear.

Bezel and Crystal:

A defining feature of this Speedmaster is its black aluminum bezel ring, which showcases the legendary tachymeter scale with the emblematic “Dot Over Ninety”, a nostalgic nod to the original design. The timepiece is protected by a hesalite-like form sapphire crystal, ensuring durability while maintaining the visual characteristics of vintage Speedmasters.

Dial:

The grey-blue dial, achieved through CVD coating, replicates the unique tone found on select CK 2998 models from the 1960s. The dial features coffee colored vintage Super-LumiNova-filled hour and minute “Alpha” hands as well as indices, while the central seconds “Baton” hand is white varnished, aligning perfectly with the transferred markings. The subdial configuration remains true to the original, with a 30-minute recorder at 3H, a 12-hour recorder at 6H, and a small-seconds display at 9H.

Caseback and Branding:

Adding to its authenticity, the watch bears a vintage OMEGA logo on both the dial and crown. The caseback features the famous Seahorse medallion, along with the engravings: “THE FIRST OMEGA IN SPACE” and “OCTOBER 3, 1962”, celebrating its place in space exploration history.

Movement:

Powering the watch is the  manual wind Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, an evolution of the legendary Calibre 321 worn by astronauts. This movement ensures superior accuracy, anti-magnetism, and durability, making it a cutting-edge tribute to the space-era Speedmaster.

Presentation and Packaging

Each watch is delivered in a special presentation box, accompanied by a “LEGENDARY MOONWATCH” leaflet, further cementing its status as a must-have for collectors and space enthusiasts alike for $7,900 retail.

At the end of the day…

I admire this watch for its effortless blend of heritage and innovation with amazing contrast. For watch collectors, space enthusiasts, and Speedmaster aficionados, it embodies OMEGA’s pioneering spirit and lasting impact on space exploration.