Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 Moon Landing History
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Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 Moon Landing History

By ImranLondon · Mar 7, 2019 · 20 replies
ImranLondon
WPS member · Omega forum
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Miranda commemorates the historic Apollo 11 mission, providing a vivid timeline of humanity's first lunar landing. Her post captures the awe and significance of this monumental achievement, from the Saturn V launch to Neil Armstrong's first steps. This article serves as a powerful reminder of the Omega Speedmaster's pivotal role in space exploration, cementing its legacy as the first watch worn on the moon.

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On the 16 July 1969 at 13.32 UTC, a Saturn V SA-506 rocket launches from Kennedy space centre carrying the first men to walk on the moon.






The crew of Michael Collins, Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong would make history and open a new horizon in mankind’s quest for exploration.


The mission would see the lunar module Eagle, land in the Mare Tranquilitatis on the 20 July 1969 at 20,17 UTC. 







21 July Neil Armstrong would become the first man to walk on the moon at 02.56 UTC, followed 19 minutes later by Buzz Aldrin.






The first watch on the moon – would be a an Omega Speedmaster ref 105.012- on Buzz Aldrin’s space suit. Armstrong left his watch in the LM.










A total of two and a quarter hours would be spent on the moon. The crew returned on the 24 July at 13.31 UTC, picked up by the USS Hornet. The mission lasted for 8 days and 3 hours, 18 minutes and 35 seconds.





This year we celebrate 50th anniversary of one of mankind’s greatest ever achievements.









Speedmaster were of course the chosen watch, and Neil Armstrong’s mission watch was a reference 105.012-65. Michael Collins wore a ref 145.012-67 and we know that Buzz Aldrin’s watch was a 105.012.

But which one?- well his watch was lost in transit on its way to the National Air and Space museum. So any clues?

I have had an informal response from a famous vintage Omega authorised dealer (who sent the request to Omega) it could well have been a reference 105.012-CB.

Close inspection of the pictures in my opinion seems to collaborate this view- looking at the twist of the lugs. But you can make your own mind up!

 

Neil Armstrong: 105.12-65











Michael Collins: 145.012-67






Buzz Aldrin : 105.012-? (CB??)



My grateful thanks  and credits for the picture to NASA and the National Air and Space museum.

These images are in the public domain- and have not been used for any commercial purpose, purely education.


That concluded the history of the Apollo missions and the history of the Speedmaster.

About the Omega Nautilus Ref. CK2998

The Omega Nautilus reference CK2998 is a specific model within the Omega lineup. This reference is identified by its unique alphanumeric designation.

No verifiable details regarding the case, materials, crystal, or movement are provided in the input facts or the collector's post.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in specific Omega models identified by their reference numbers. Its position within the broader Omega collection is defined by its individual reference.

Specifications

Caliber
321
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
39-40mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Hesalite

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
BA
Baron - Mr Red
Mar 7, 2019
Miranda.....

What a stunning post. The time and effort that you are putting into this research is extremely generous. Thank you. What a great post and a reminder of the history behind this incredible achievement as well as horological history. Best to you

IM
ImranLondon
Mar 7, 2019
Thank you, its been enjoyable doing this and a star has emerged I will share soon [nt]

AR
Arie - Mr Orange
Mar 11, 2019
Am I allowed to echo your statement Mr Red?

Great post indeed!!

AM
amanico
Mar 7, 2019
Merci, Imran. With all these posts, you will make me want to find my Speedmaster! ;) [nt]

IM
ImranLondon
Mar 7, 2019
Only one ... a real star of the Apollo program CB brother [nt]

MD
mdg
Mar 7, 2019
The ‘Apollo 11’ movie that is out now is fantastic...

...definitely worth the extra $ to see in IMAX.

Available on the marketplace

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