Vintage
ImranLondon delivers a captivating historical account of the Apollo 7 mission, emphasizing its critical role in the space race and the enduring presence of the Omega Speedmaster. This post not only details the mission's objectives and achievements but also showcases rare imagery, bringing to life a pivotal moment in both space exploration and horological history.
In total 163 orbits were made around the Earth, before splash down in the North Atlantic on the 22nd October.
The Apollo 7 CM was launched into space on the Saturn 1B- SA205 rocket.
This was the first ever mission into space with a three man crew and also the first mission to beam back to Earth live pictures on television.
All the pilots wore the Speedmaster professional.
Donn Eisele wore two Speedmaster professional watches. The officially supplied watch was S/N 34. This watch was the ref. 105.012-65. He also wore another 105.012-65 but this was his own. NASA also gave this watch a serial number, which was unusual for an astronaut’s personal watch- S/N 38. This was sold by Sotheby’s.
Walter Cunningham also wore a reference 105.012-65, identifiable by the two step caseback.
Walter Schirra: hard to be definitive on this one. There is no records that I could find for this one, although from the shape of the lugs it does look like another 105.012-65. However, I cannot be 100% on it being a -65, althoughI am extremely confident it is a 105.012.
In summary:
Walter Cunningham: 105.012-65 (National Air and Space museum verified)
Donn Eisele: S/N 34 105.102-65 Recovered with NASA now S/N 38 105.012-65: Sotheby’s
Walter Schirra: 105.012 – derivative likely -65: UNVERIFIED
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.
Most of these images I have not seen before! Thank you very much indeed. Cheers, Filip
Thanks a lot, my friend, for these new insights in the fascinating Apollo & Speedmaster history 🤩
Thank You, Imran. The pictures are just stunning. I can keep looking at them again and again.
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