ZoneTecnico makes a compelling case for the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, specifically the Ref. 145.012 from 1967, as the most iconic chronograph of all time. His post highlights its unique status as the only watch qualified by NASA for Extravehicular Activity (EVA) and its pivotal role in the Apollo 13 mission, culminating in an overview of the commemorative Speedmaster Moonwatch Apollo 13 Silver Snoopy Award.
Many may have forgotten about this fact but it was the first timepiece worn on the moon. And probably the very event that propelled it to horological stardom. Several brands, namely Breitling, Rolex, Hamilton, and Longines-Wittnauer, were also in the bid to be certified by NASA for space use. But all fell short. Since then, several other timepieces have been qualified for space flight. It is still the only one qualified by NASA for EVA (Extravehicular Activity: Activities outside the spacecraft in space).
Yes, I am talking about the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch! And that right there is the Ref 145.012 circa 1967.
I am a really big fan of chronograph timepieces so the Speedmaster naturally appeals to me. Even to someone isn't a big fan of chronograph or Omega for that matter, the aesthetically pleasing design and features would get their nod of approval.
The Speedmaster has came a long way since the Gemini and Apollo program. And for BaselWorld 2015, Omega has brought Snoopy and Speedmaster together for the second time, the first was in 2003. So what does Snoopy got to do with the Omega Speedmaster?
Snoopy was so popular back in 1969, that the Apollo 10 crew named their lunar module, Snoopy, and their command module, Charlie Brown. Shortly after, NASA chose Snoopy as their mascot for their prestigious manned flight awareness award. A year later, Omega received the Snoopy award for its contribution in the Apollo 13 mission. The crew had to conserve energy after an oxygen tank exploded, leaving the Speedmaster as the only functioning timing device onboard. They used it to time ignite the rockets to shorten the flight path back to Earth; and to decrease speed and raise the flight path angle for re-entry into Earth (which if timed wrongly, results in dire consequences)
It has been 45 years since and to commemorate that eventful event (pun intended!), Omega unveiled the Speedmaster Moonwatch Apollo 13 Silver Snoopy Award. It will be produced in limited numbers, 1970 to be exact (which is coincidentally the year the mission took place). The dial isn't the only new feature of the timepiece. Omega has skillfully incorporated subtle details too.
This timepiece is available in 2 colour schemes: white dial with black indexes and grey dial with black indexes. The plots surrounding the black indexes are Super LumiNova. As are the tachymeter scale on the polished black ceramic (ZrO2) bezel and Snoopy. You may have realise the speech bubble right below "Omega Speedmaster Professional". That is Snoopy saying "Failure Is Not An Option", a clever tagline summarising Omega's contribution in the Apollo 13 mission.
14 seconds. That's the amount of time astronauts experience full thrust from the rockets to bring their module on its own orbit. This is reflected on the scale starting from 0 and answers the question Omega posed "What could you do in 14 seconds?"
The timepiece features a unique dedicated caseback. A silver Snoopy medallion, which looks pretty similar that on the pin Omega received in 1970, is mounted on a blue enamel coated silver plate. And the medallion is protected by a sapphire crystal. It features a black nylon fabric strap, different from the traditional bracelet or leather strap.
I personally would go for the grey one but in any case, this timepiece looks great in either colour. Its limited numbers reflects its exclusivity so why not consider this Speedmaster if you are looking for one?
About the Omega Professional Ref. 145.012
The Speedmaster reference 145.012 represents a significant iteration within the model line, marking a transition point in its design and production. This reference is notable for being among the last to feature the revered column-wheel chronograph movement, a characteristic highly valued by collectors. Its design maintains the classic proportions and aesthetic that define the early Speedmaster chronographs, preceding later design updates.
This reference typically features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 42 mm, housing the manual-winding Caliber 321. The crystal is Hesalite, contributing to its period-correct appearance. Water resistance is rated at 50 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The fixed tachymeter bezel surrounds a black dial, offering clear legibility for its chronograph functions.
For collectors, the 145.012 is particularly appealing due to its use of the Caliber 321 and its position as a late example of this movement's application in the Speedmaster. It bridges earlier designs with subsequent developments, making it a key reference for understanding the model's evolution. Variants primarily involve minor dial and hand differences that occurred during its production run.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 321
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 42 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Hesalite
