Omega speedmaster moon

The Omega Speedmaster Professional, known as the Moonwatch, was the first watch worn on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.

About this subject

The Omega Speedmaster Professional, affectionately known as the Moonwatch, is one of the most iconic watches in horological history. It was launched in 1957 as a sport chronograph but gained eternal fame in 1969 when it accompanied Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin during the first manned lunar landing. NASA certified it in 1965 after rigorous tests for vibration resistance, thermal variation, and vacuum. Since then, the Speedmaster has been part of every Apollo mission, including the famous Apollo 13, where it was used to time engine burns during the return to Earth.

The classic model features a 42mm case, hesalite (acrylic) crystal, and a black dial with subdials for seconds, minutes, and hours counting. Its manual-winding movement, the caliber 861 (later 1861), is a robust column-wheel chronograph. The black bezel with a tachymeter scale is one of its most recognizable design elements. Omega has kept the design virtually unchanged since the 1960s, honoring the space heritage.

Interesting facts include that the Speedmaster was the only watch approved by NASA for extravehicular activity (EVA), withstanding extreme temperatures from -18°C to 93°C. The specific model used on the Moon was the ST 105.012. The current version, reference 311.30.42.30.01.005 or Sapphire Sandwich, features a sapphire caseback to display the movement. The Speedmaster remains one of Omega's best-selling watches and a collector's item, with special commemorative editions like the Apollo 11 50th Anniversary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Omega Speedmaster called the Moonwatch?

Because it was the first watch worn on the Moon, during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, and has since been synonymous with space exploration.

Which movement does the Omega Speedmaster Professional use?

It uses the manual-winding caliber 1861 (formerly 861), a column-wheel chronograph known for its robustness and accuracy.

Is the Speedmaster still made with the same specifications as the lunar version?

Yes, Omega maintains the classic design with few changes, such as adding sapphire caseback models. The hesalite version is still produced.