The Omega Speedmaster is one of the most iconic timepieces in existence. The collection debuted in 1957 and would eventually outperform several other brands in a series of rigorous tests to earn the coveted title of the official watch of NASA and the distinction ?Flight-Qualified by NASA for all Manned Space Missions.? Although the Speedmaster went to space in the early 1960s in an unofficial capacity, it was the Speedmaster with ?Professional? written on the dial that would go on to accompany astronauts during the first Moon landing. The ?Moonwatch,? as it has since come to be known, is one of the most sought-after Omega watches on the secondary market. This example is circa 1974 and features the “straight writing” case back. After the moon landing on July 20, 1969 and the first Omega was worn on the moon, Omega started to mention this on the case backs of the Speedmaster Professionals. The first variations, like this example, had the following text across the caseback in straight lines, “FLIGHT QUALIFIED BY NASA FOR ALL MANNED SPACE MISSIONS THE FIRST WATCH WORN ON THE MOON.” Later examples would have this text around the caseback with a medallion in the center. In addition to this being a “straight writing” example this comes with its papers (with corresponding movement number written) and original purchase receipt. The papers/ international guarantee has a stamp of the jeweler that sold it and the receipt is on the corresponding jewelers letter head with the same name and logo, super interesting to see. It’s not common to find Speedmaster Professionals with papers since back in the day people didn’t keep the paperwork like they do now. Both also show a corresponding sales date of August 2, 1975, we love when the little details line up!
