The Omega Speedmaster. The name conjures images of lunar landings, daring astronauts, and a legacy forged in the crucible of space exploration. But the story of this iconic chronograph begins long before Neil Armstrong took that giant leap for mankind. Before the Moonwatch, before the legendary Calibre 321, there was the Omega Speedmaster Pre-Moon, a collection of watches representing crucial steps in the evolution of this horological legend. This article will delve deep into the fascinating history of these pre-moon Speedmasters, focusing particularly on the pivotal CK2998 and its significance in paving the way for the watch's legendary status. We'll also explore the collector's market, examining options for acquiring pre-owned examples, including vintage Omega Speedmaster Pre-Moon watches, and discussing current market trends, such as the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch 2021.
The Omega Speedmaster's journey is a long and winding one, a testament to its enduring design and robust engineering. While the Moonwatch, specifically the reference ST 105.003, is inextricably linked with the Apollo missions, its lineage traces back to earlier models that laid the foundation for its success. The CK2998, often considered the quintessential pre-moon Speedmaster, represents a pivotal moment in this evolution. Introduced in 1959, it marked a significant upgrade from its predecessors, boasting several key improvements and a refined aesthetic that foreshadowed the iconic design we recognize today.
The CK2998 wasn't just an incremental improvement; it represented a leap forward in both functionality and style. Compared to earlier Speedmasters, the CK2998 featured a more refined case design, often described as broader and more elegant. The bezel, a crucial element for timing, received a significant upgrade, moving from a simple, less precise design to a tachymeter bezel, a vital tool for measuring speed and distance. This tachymeter scale, etched directly onto the bezel, became a hallmark of the Speedmaster line and a key feature contributing to its popularity among professionals and enthusiasts alike. The dial, too, underwent a transformation. While maintaining the overall layout, the CK2998 featured a more legible and refined design, enhancing its practicality and aesthetics.
But perhaps the most significant aspect of the CK2998 is its connection to space exploration. While not the first Omega Speedmaster to be worn in space, it holds the distinction of being the first Speedmaster to be worn *during a spaceflight*. Astronaut Wally Schirra, a member of the Mercury Seven, famously wore a CK2998 during his Sigma 7 mission in 1962, marking a watershed moment in the watch's history. This event cemented the Speedmaster's reputation for reliability and accuracy in the harsh conditions of space, paving the way for its eventual selection by NASA for the Apollo program. Schirra's choice, a personal decision based on his own experience and trust in the watch's capabilities, is a powerful testament to the CK2998's inherent quality and performance.
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