ImranLondon's detailed post on the Apollo 16 mission provides a fascinating historical context for Omega Speedmaster collectors. This article highlights the critical role of the Speedmaster as essential equipment for astronauts John Young, Charles Duke, and Ken Mattingly during their lunar highlands adventure. It's an invaluable resource for understanding the specific Speedmaster references worn during this pivotal space exploration.
The tenth Apollo mission took off on the 16.04.72 and lasted for 11 days 1 hour and 51 minutes! returning home on the 27.04.72
On board were the Astronauts, John Young, Charles Duke and Ken Mattingly.
Their mission, was the fifth moon landing and the first time a landing took place in the lunar highlands.
The Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) was used was for the second time and it covered 26.7km on the lunar surface.
Both Young and Duke spent a total of 71 hours on the lunar surface of which 20 hours and 14 minutes was extra-vehicular.

Speedmaster’s were of course essential equipment and all three astronauts wore them:
Mattingly: 105.012-65
John Young: 105.012: CB case
Charles Duke :105.012-CB
Summary;
Thomas Mattingly 105.012-65
John Young 105.012-CB
Charles Duke 105.012-CB
All picture credits gratefully to NASA and the Smithsonian Air and Space museum.
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
About the Omega Nautilus Ref. 105.012
The Omega Nautilus reference 105.012 is a specific iteration within the Nautilus model line. This reference is identified by its unique numerical designation, distinguishing it from other Omega Nautilus models.
Details regarding the case materials, crystal type, and movement architecture are not provided in the available information.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking specific Omega Nautilus models identified by their reference numbers. Its position within the broader Omega catalog is defined by its model and reference designation.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 321
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 42mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Hesalite
About the Omega Speedmaster Ref. 105.012-65
The Omega Speedmaster reference 105.012-65 represents a significant iteration within the Speedmaster lineage, being among the early professional models. This reference is distinguished by its asymmetrical case design, which was introduced to provide additional protection for the crown and pushers. It succeeded earlier symmetrical case designs and established a visual language that would become characteristic of many subsequent Speedmaster Professional models. This specific reference was produced during a pivotal period for the model line.
This Speedmaster features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 42mm in diameter. It houses the manual-winding Omega Caliber 321, a column-wheel chronograph movement known for its robust construction and precision. The crystal protecting the dial is made of Hesalite, a material chosen for its shatter-resistant properties. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 44 hours, ensuring reliable operation over an extended period.
For collectors, the 105.012-65 is notable as one of the last references to utilize the Caliber 321 before the transition to the Caliber 861. Its production year, 1965, places it firmly within the era that established the Speedmaster's enduring appeal. The combination of the asymmetrical case and the Caliber 321 makes this reference particularly sought after, representing a key transitional model in the Speedmaster's development.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 321
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 42mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Hesalite