Omega
*Transitional* 1968 OMEGA Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 145.022) Cal. 861 "Pre-Moon"
(Alan Bean With An Omega Speedmaster Professional On Lunar Surface Of The Moon)
The Omega Speedmaster Professional is by far one of our favorite chronographs due to its timeless design and functionality. 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 Astronaut Thomas Stafford With two Omega Speedmaster Professional Speedmaster's During "Suit Up")
The step dial or "pie-pan" Omega Speedmasters possess a charm and feel 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. 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 transitional Omega Speedmaster ref. 145.022 is a truly unique piece as it was only produced for a very small period of time in 1968. Bridging the gap between the cal. 321 and cal. 861, this Speedmaster features the applied logo dial that is normally seen in cal. 321 Speedmasters, but houses the updated cal. 861 movement.
SPECS
| Stock # | OMSPM68T | |
| Brand | Omega | |
| Style | Speedmaster Professional | |
| Model | 145.022-68 | |
| Serial | 27XXXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Applied Logo" | |
| Millimeters | 42 | |
| Bracelet | Forstner Brushed / Polished Flat Link Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent asymmetrical case has been lightly polished and shows light signs of honest use. The original "dot over 90" tachymetre bezel has faded to a handsome grey coloration and does exhibit some wear from use. The case retains its original "flat-foot" Omega signed crown and pump pushers. The "pre-moon" case back retains its factory markings in excellent condition. The watch comes supplied on a Forstner brushed / polished Flat-Link bracelet for Speedmasters.
DIAL & HANDS
The transitional matte black "pie-pan" dial with applied logo is in exceptional original condition, showing no damage or signs of use. The tritium lume plots have aged to a vivid yellow coloration and display no degradation under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and display no degradation when inspected under U.V. light.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly, previous service history is unknown.