The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch holds a unique place in horological history. More than just a timepiece, it's a symbol of human achievement, inextricably linked to humanity's first steps on the lunar surface. In 1969, as the world watched Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin take their historic leap, the Speedmaster was strapped to their wrists, making it the "first watch on the moon." To commemorate the 50th anniversary of this momentous occasion, Omega released a truly special edition: the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition. This article delves deep into this remarkable timepiece, exploring its design, its significance, its place within the broader history of the Speedmaster, and its current market value.
A Commemorative Timepiece: The Omega Apollo 11 50th Anniversary
Released in 2019, the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition wasn't just another variation on a classic design. It was a meticulously crafted tribute, limited to a production run of 6,969 pieces – a nod to the year of the Apollo 11 mission. This limited availability immediately elevated its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
The watch boasts a 42mm stainless steel case, a size that perfectly balances wearability and the iconic Speedmaster proportions. However, what truly sets this edition apart is the incorporation of 18K Moonshine™ Gold. This proprietary Omega alloy offers a paler, more luminous gold hue than traditional yellow gold, subtly reflecting the ethereal glow of the moon. The Moonshine™ Gold is used for the bezel, adding a touch of refined elegance to the otherwise robust design.
The bezel ring itself is a marvel of modern watchmaking. Constructed from polished black ceramic (ZrO2), it features the tachymeter scale rendered in Omega's Ceragold™. Ceragold™ is a ceramic-based gold alloy that ensures exceptional durability and resistance to scratching and fading. This combination of materials – Moonshine™ Gold, black ceramic, and Ceragold™ – creates a visually stunning and remarkably resilient bezel, a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of the Apollo 11 mission.
Beyond the Aesthetics: A Deep Dive into the Details
The dial of the Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition remains faithful to the iconic Speedmaster design. The familiar sub-dials for the chronograph functions are clearly legible, and the applied indices and hands are filled with Super-LumiNova, ensuring readability in low-light conditions. The subtle details, however, are where this limited edition truly shines. The inscription "Apollo 11 50th Anniversary" subtly graces the dial, serving as a discreet reminder of its commemorative nature.
The movement powering this timepiece is the calibre 3861, a manual-winding chronograph movement. This is a direct descendant of the legendary calibre 861, the movement that powered the Speedmaster worn on the moon. The calibre 3861, however, incorporates modern enhancements, including a silicon Si14 balance spring for increased resistance to magnetic fields and improved accuracy. This ensures that this commemorative piece not only honors the past but also benefits from the advancements in watchmaking technology. The movement is visible through a sapphire crystal caseback, allowing admirers to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship. The caseback also features a special commemorative engraving, further reinforcing the watch's unique status.
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