Is the Omega Apollo 11 Speedmaster Moon Landing 50th Anniversary worth all the rage in 2024?
How is this release separated from the rest of Omegas history of special edition times pieces, then we have all your answers in this guide.
When it comes to iconic watches, especially one with a lot of history, very few watches can go head-to-head with the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, Omega released the Omega Apollo 11 Speedmaster, which soon became a viral sensation as watch lovers jostled to add it to their collection.
Being luxury pieces they are expensive and we recommended a few great Omega Speedmaster homages to help the newbie watch enthusiasts.
For starters, Omega Speedmaster watches have become the gold standard for quality timepieces, so much so that no watch collection is complete without an Omega Speedmaster in the mix.
Over the years, Omega Speedmaster watches have been described as the archetype of the sports chronograph, and that’s because their watches feature a classic stainless steel bracelet, a super tachymeter bezel, and sub-dials at three, six, and nine, respectively.
But the reason these watches have become such a must-have is because of the one event that saw the Omega Speedmaster watch make its maiden trip to space.
Read on as we unveil the iconic Omega Apollo Speedmaster watch that watch lovers can’t stop talking about.
History of the Omega
The Omega brand kicked off in 1848 when young Louis Brandt set up a small workshop in La Chaux-de-Fond, a small Swiss village.
Brandt was particularly passionate about building precision watches.
This spurred him to develop some of the most accurate watches of his era.
Thanks to the quality of his timepieces, he soon became a popular figure in Switzerland and then Europe.
In 1879, Louis Brandt handed the company over to his two sons.
Inspired by their father’s passion for quality watches, both brothers will eventually launch their very first series-produced caliber movement, nicknamed the “Labrador.”
Featuring some of the finest technology at that time along with superb timing results, their new movement was lauded as one of the best.
This impressive height provided a base for future Omega releases like the 19-ligne Omega caliber, which changed watchmaking history forever.
Following the unprecedented success enjoyed by their Labrador movement, the Brandt brothers launched the first-minute repeating wristwatch in 1892.
Since then, the company has continued to roll out quality timepieces, with many of their watches gracing the wrist of celebrities, professionals, and even the Apollo 11 team on their 1969 space exhibition.
Omega Speedmaster and the Apollo 11
The Apollo 11 lunar module eagle made its maiden journey to space precisely on the 20th of July 1969.
For the expedition, each crew member, including Micheal Collins, Neil Armstrong, and Edwin Buzz Aldrin, was equipped with an Omega Speedmaster watch.
After the Apollo 11 space exhibition, the Omega Speedmaster became the official timepiece used for subsequent space missions, including the Apollo 12 and 14 manned missions to the moon.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 space mission, the Omega brand launched two special edition watches.
The first one is the re-edition of the 1969 Apollo 11 Speedmaster in 18-karat gold, which was subsequently presented to serving astronauts at NASA.
The second Omega Speedmaster launched during the golden anniversary of Apollo 11 depicts senior crew member Buzz Aldrin climbing down from the spacecraft.
This is closely followed by a footprint on the moon that sits on the dial and case back.
Omega Apollo 11 and its striking gold
The Omega Apollo 11 Speedmaster features a gold alloy.
Even though the 18-karat Moonshine gold is a little paler than pure gold, we like that it can withstand fading over time.
The gold alloy on the Apollo 11 Speedmaster watch features on many parts of the watch, including the vintage Omega emblem, the laser-engraved illustration on the dial as well as the beveled indexes.
The unique case, brilliant dial, and superb hands of the Apollo 11 Speedmaster
In terms of packaging, the Omega Apollo 11 Speedmaster is delivered in a huge box.
We like that it comes with extra Velcro straps, each highlighted with blackened cork and golden marks.
This is a special tribute to the Apollo-era Boot protective cover, which provides special covering for the crew during intense heat.
Along with the box comes two NASA patches, the 50th Anniversary patch and the Apollo 11 mission patch.
Even though the Omega Apollo 11 Speedmaster watch is more of a celebration piece, we love that the company didn’t deviate from its original design.
This special edition watch follows the strict and signature design of the original Speedmaster Moonwatch.
Besides its stainless steel bracelet and polished ceramic bezel ring, what stands out for us is the case which comes in at 42mm.
In terms of movement, the Omega Apollo Speedmaster features the company’s new signature Omega Master Co-Axial Calibre 3861.
Most Omega Speedmaster diehards love this movement because it is hand-wound.
Additionally, it comes fitted with Silicon Co-Axial as well as anti-magnetic technology.
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Rugged and built to last
- It takes accuracy up a notch
- Excellent movement and precision
- The bracelet makes for a comfortable wearing experience
Cons
- The watch is quite expensive
- Since it is a special edition, only a few were built
Frequently asked question
Is an Omega Speedmaster a good investment?
The Omega Speedmaster is an exquisite timepiece that commands a lot of respect.
This particular Omega collection has a huge following, and that’s because of its remarkable history.
Thanks to being an absolute classic, this watch will always be in high demand.
As a result, the Speedmaster will make a good investment.
What makes Omega watches special?
Omega watches are super expensive because of their remarkable history, pristine quality, and Swiss origin.
Also, the prices of their timepieces keep skyrocketing because of the money spent on marketing and celebrity endorsement.
Why is the Omega Speedmaster such a popular watch?
There are many reasons why the Omega Speedmaster enjoys a considerable following.
For starters, this watch looks all shades of amazing.
Also, it is a simple, functional watch with a powerful and accurate movement.
Conclusion
The Omega Apollo Speedmaster special edition watch is one of those timepieces you want to have in your collection.
From its impressive design to its unmatched performance and Apollo 11 connection, this watch stands out on all fronts.
And because it is a special edition watch, it’s easy to see why the watch cost so much.
