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Few watches in the world carry the same historical significance as the OMEGA Speedmaster. First introduced in 1957 as a motorsport chronograph, the Speedmaster later became one of the most famous watches ever made after NASA selected it for use during the Apollo space missions.
In 1969 the Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission, earning its legendary nickname: the Moonwatch.
Today the Speedmaster remains one of the most respected chronographs in watchmaking. From the classic Moonwatch Professional to modern ceramic interpretations, the Speedmaster family offers a wide range of models that appeal to both new collectors and seasoned enthusiasts.
If you are considering buying a pre-owned OMEGA Speedmaster, this guide will help you understand the key models, important variations and what to look for before making a purchase.
The Speedmaster is forever linked with space exploration. After extensive testing, NASA officially qualified the Speedmaster for manned space missions in 1965. The watch was subsequently worn throughout the Gemini and Apollo programmes.
The Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969 and has remained part of NASA’s flight equipment ever since.
For many collectors, this connection to human spaceflight is one of the most compelling reasons to own a Speedmaster.
Originally designed as a racing chronograph, the Speedmaster features a highly legible dial with three sub-dials and a tachymeter bezel used for calculating speed.
The clean layout and balanced proportions have barely changed since the 1960s, making the Speedmaster one of the most recognisable chronographs ever produced.
Modern Speedmaster models feature OMEGA’s Master Chronometer-certified movements, delivering exceptional precision, anti-magnetic performance and durability.
Many Speedmasters remain manual-wind watches, giving collectors the tactile pleasure of winding the watch each day.
Despite its professional origins, the Speedmaster works well as an everyday watch. Its balanced design allows it to pair just as comfortably with casual clothing as it does with more formal attire.
Over the decades the Speedmaster collection has evolved into several distinct lines. Understanding these variations will help you decide which model best suits your preferences.
The Speedmaster Professional remains the most historically authentic version of the watch worn during the Apollo missions.
Key features include:
Modern Moonwatch models use the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, offering improved accuracy and magnetic resistance while maintaining the traditional Moonwatch design.
Best for: collectors seeking the most authentic Speedmaster experience.
OMEGA regularly produces Speedmaster models inspired by important historical references.
Two notable examples include:
Speedmaster Calibre 321 “Ed White”
This model recreates the famous Speedmaster worn by astronaut Ed White during the first American spacewalk in 1965. It features the legendary hand-assembled Calibre 321 movement and vintage-inspired design details.
Speedmaster First Omega in Space (FOIS)
The FOIS pays tribute to astronaut Wally Schirra’s Speedmaster worn during the Sigma 7 mission in 1962. Its straight lugs and symmetrical case design closely resemble the early Speedmasters used during the early days of space exploration.
Best for: collectors interested in historically significant Speedmaster references.
The Dark Side of the Moon models represent a modern evolution of the Speedmaster design.
These watches feature ceramic cases, contemporary materials and bold styling inspired by lunar exploration.
Key features include:
Best for: collectors looking for a more modern interpretation of the Speedmaster.
The Speedmaster 38 offers a more compact alternative within the collection.
Key features include:
Best for: collectors who prefer a slightly smaller chronograph.
OMEGA’s Two Counters Speedmaster models offer a modern take on the classic chronograph layout.
This category includes models such as:
These watches often feature distinctive dial designs inspired by vintage racing chronographs.
Best for: collectors who want a contemporary Speedmaster with distinctive styling.
The Speedmaster has produced some of the most celebrated limited editions in modern watch collecting.
The Speedmaster Silver Snoopy Award commemorates the award given to OMEGA by NASA after the Speedmaster played a critical role in the safe return of the Apollo 13 crew.
Three major versions exist:
The 2020 version is especially notable for its animated caseback depicting Snoopy travelling around the moon.
Created in collaboration with the watch enthusiast community, the Speedy Tuesday models celebrate the global popularity of the Speedmaster among collectors.
Limited production and strong demand have made these models particularly desirable on the secondary market.
Inspired by a rare Speedmaster reference worn in the Japanese television series The Return of Ultraman, this limited edition features distinctive orange accents and has become highly sought after by collectors.
The Alaska Project watches were originally experimental Speedmasters designed for extreme temperature testing during the space race. Modern versions reinterpret this fascinating chapter of Speedmaster history such as the first Speedy Tuesday based on the 1978 Alaska Project III.
Purchasing a pre-owned OMEGA Speedmaster can offer several advantages compared with buying new.
Many collectors also appreciate that pre-owned watches have already undergone their initial depreciation.
When purchasing a luxury watch, authenticity should always be carefully verified.
Important factors to examine include:
Movement
OMEGA’s chronograph movements feature distinctive finishing and engravings that should match the reference.
Serial Numbers
Each watch carries a unique serial number that can help confirm authenticity.
Dial and Case Details
Printing quality, bezel alignment and hand finishing should all meet OMEGA’s high manufacturing standards.
Purchase Source
Buying from a trusted dealer significantly reduces the risk of encountering counterfeit watches.
Choosing the right retailer is just as important as choosing the right watch.
At MVS Watches we carefully curate our collection of pre-owned OMEGA watches, ensuring every piece is thoroughly inspected and authenticated before it is offered for sale.
Our regularly updated inventory includes a range of Speedmaster references, from classic Moonwatch models to more modern variations within the collection.
By purchasing from a specialist retailer, collectors can enjoy greater confidence in the authenticity, condition and provenance of their watch.
Collectors exploring OMEGA often compare the Speedmaster with another legendary model in the brand’s lineup: the Seamaster.
While the Speedmaster is famous for its connection to NASA and space exploration, the Seamaster was designed as a professional dive watch and has become one of the most recognisable underwater watches ever produced.
If you’re considering a dive watch instead of a chronograph, our guide to buying a pre-owned OMEGA Seamaster explains the different models within that collection and how to choose the right one.
The Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional is the most famous model. It was worn by NASA astronauts during the Apollo missions and became the first watch worn on the moon.
Hesalite models use an acrylic crystal similar to the original Moonwatch worn during space missions, while sapphire versions offer greater scratch resistance and often feature a display caseback.
Some Speedmaster models, particularly limited editions such as the Snoopy or Ultraman, have seen strong demand among collectors. However, most buyers choose the Speedmaster for its history and design rather than purely for investment purposes.
The traditional Moonwatch Professional features a 42mm case diameter, though smaller Speedmaster models such as the Speedmaster 38 are also available.
The OMEGA Speedmaster is one of the most historically important watches ever created. From motorsport timing to space exploration, its legacy spans some of the most remarkable achievements in modern history.
Whether you are drawn to the iconic Moonwatch Professional, heritage models such as the Calibre 321 “Ed White”, or modern interpretations like the Dark Side of the Moon, the Speedmaster remains one of the most rewarding watches a collector can own.
For collectors exploring the wider brand, you can also browse our selection of pre-owned OMEGA watches to discover which Speedmaster might become the next addition to your collection.
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