Omega

1968 OMEGA Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 145.012) Cal. 321 "Pre-Moon"

 Alan Bean With An Omega Speedmaster Professional On Lunar Surface Of The Moon

(Alan Bean With An Omega Speedmaster Professional On Lunar Surface Of The Moon)

The Omega Speedmaster Professional is by far one of our most favorite chronographs. The Speedmaster has an incredible history starting with automotive racing moving into flight and eventually to NASA and the U.S. Space Program.  There are many subtle differences within the vintage Omega Speedmaster range of references that make them all slightly unique and different.

NASA Omega Speedmaster Professional On Astronaut Stafford

(NASA Astronaut Thomas Stafford With two Omega Speedmaster Professional Speedmaster's During "Suit Up")

This Omega Speedmaster transitional model Ref. 145.012 dates this specific example too late 1968 uses the earlier Caliber 321 movement. The original matte black stepped dial with applied Omega logo has achieved a wonderful patina and the bezel insert has the original dot over 90 (DON) bezel, and pre-moon seahorse case back. 

 

The step dial or "Pie Pan" Omega Speedmaster's possess a charm and feel that that the new modern equivalents don't seem to quite have. The Ref 145.012 with the workhorse Cal. 321 movement is clearly built to last. The Speedmaster looks great on the bracelet as well as a handcrafted leather strap. It is one of our favorite chronographs due to its timeless design and functionality. Its versatility to be paired with the most formal and the most casual of wardrobe also makes the Speedmaster a good choice for the first vintage timepiece and or a classic daily driver.

SPECS

Stock # OMSPM68-4
Brand Omega
Style Speedmaster Professional
Model 145.012
Serial 260XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black "Applied Logo"
Millimeters 42
Bracelet Omega 1039 "Flat-Link" Stretch Bracelet W/ 516 End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent asymmetric case has been lightly polished in the past, retaining thick lugs with factory dimensions and minimal signs of use. The original "dot over 90" Tachymetre bezel is deep black in coloration and displays only minor signs of previous use. The case retains its original "flat foot" signed crown and pump pushers. The "pre-moon" case back retains all of its factory markings in slightly faded condition from wear. The original Omega 1039 "flat-link" stretch bracelet with 526 end pieces is stamped 2/68 and retains 23 links that display light stretch from use.

DIAL & HANDS

The matte black applied logo "pie pan" dial is in wonderful vintage condition, showing minimal signs of age. The tritium lume plots have aged to a creamy patina, under U.V. light inspection the lume plots all remain present but show degradation throughout. The original tritium hands have taken on a dark patina which is common, under U.V. light inspection the minute hand displays degradation, the hour and chronograph hand exhibit no degradation.

ACCESSORIES

None. The watch is keeping time and functioning properly, previous service history is unknown.