1969 OMEGA Speedmaster 145.022 CALIBRE 861 "Pre-Moon" With Original Box

(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. The early 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 145.022 with the workhorse Cal. 861 movement is clearly built to last. The Speedmaster looks great on the bracelet as well as a hand crafted 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.

This specific Omega Speedmaster transitional model Ref. 145.022 is truly special and dates to 1969. This example is a very rare last production pre-moon reference and is one of the best pre moon Speedmaster examples we have ever seen here at Craft and Tailored. This transitional model uses the caliber 861 instead of the earlier caliber 321 which is common for the transitional references and has been completely overhauled and is running perfectly. The original matte black stepped dial with applied Omega logo is crisp and in flawless condition. The Tritium lume plots are fully intact showing no lume degradation and the hands match perfectly which have both taken on a wonderful creamy golden patina. The watch also comes with the original and sought after Omega 1039 Bracelet with 515 end links which is also in amazing condition showing zero stretch and is in NOS condition. The bezel insert possesses the DON (Dot Over 90) and has taken on a slight anthracite fade with very minimal patina which shows clear legibility of the tachymetre. The piece also possesses the original Omega "Flat Foot" crown which also adds to the originality and exclusivity of this specific piece. Furthermore this piece also comes with the original inner and outer boxes with the original retail price tag which is an uncommon accessory to find with a piece of this vintage.