1970 OMEGA Speedmaster 145.022 Rare Straight Writing "Moon Watch" Case Back

(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. This specific example is no exception as you will find that this 1974 Omega Speedmaster professional possesses the rare commemorative straight writing "moon watch" case back (145.022-69 inside) which was produced from late 1969  to roughly 1973. Based on the serial number this watch was produced in 1972 and is in fantastic condition.The straight writing case backs were Omega’s first commercial response to the Speedmaster’s involvement during the NASA 1969 Moon landings. There are actually three different variants of the straight writing case backs and these are quite rare due to the fact that they were only produced from 1970-1973 and were placed on a small number of actual production watches.

(Buzz Aldrin Wearing His NASA Issued Omega Speedmaster Professional, Apollo 11)

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 145.022 with the workhorse Cal. 861 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.

The excellent thick case has very light patina from use but we believe the case remains in unpolished condition. The insert is free of any blemishing and remains in wonderful overall condition. The insert possesses a dot over 90 inserts that we believe was original to the watch as this is how we sourced the piece. The Omega J/M bracelet shows very minimal stretch and comes complete with 47 end links.

Amazing black matte "Step" dial is in immaculate vintage condition. The tritium markers on the dial and the tritium filled hands have achieved a wonderful creamy ivory like patina that matches perfectly. The dial and hands show no signs of lume degradation when inspected under U.V. Light

None. The watch was recently serviced and is running at COSC Spec backed by a 1-year warranty on movement.