Subexplorer's post offers a deeply personal look at his Omega Flightmaster 910, affectionately dubbed the "Friendship Flightmaster." This article explores the unique bond formed through shared horological passion, highlighting how a specific watch can embody significant personal connections. Subexplorer also makes a compelling case for the Flightmaster's underappreciated status compared to its more famous sibling, the Speedmaster, inviting collectors to reconsider its distinctive charm and historical relevance.
... Hello dear friends!
The story of this watch has been told in a couple of posts before, one penned by Art and another by me.
In few words I owe the joy of having this wonderful watch in my collection to our dear Dr. No.
Art found it in Germany in NOS condition and knowing I had been after one for some time he let me know its existence and encouraged me to make the purchase.
Then he devoted a lot of efforts and time to procure it, order shipping to his home in Caliifornia and getting it after no little dealing with Fedex and customs paperwork, sending it to his watchmaker for the required service (the watch was still working well after about 50 years of sitting idle) and procuring some spares it required along the service.
A project like this can only be done by a good nice friend and passionate and knowledgeable collector like Art. And all this story which took several months of 2019 comes to my mind each time I handle or wear this watch, a true keeper for me, and the reason I call it my "Friendship Flightmaster".
The Omega Flightmaster in both 910 and 911 variations is a wonderful watch whose existence is shadowed by its celebrity cousin the Speedmaster and its Moon related saga. The outstanding design and history around the Speedy makes that the FM doesn´t receive the deserved attention from collectors.
I feel that another reason of the preference of Speedy over FM is its size and specially its height and weight which makes many potential buyers to refrain its purchase and prefer the slimmer and more compact Speedmaster.
I guess that sooner or later the FM will get the attention of collectors who will turn their eyes on this superb watch to be worn and collected.
Last week end was a long four days holiday here celebrating Carnival and I took advantage of those lazy days to take some new shots of my beauty.
I added some previous shots and hope you´ll enjoy them viewing this very very special watch in my collection.
Thank you so much dear Art again!
Cheers! Abel
About the Omega Ref. 910
The Omega Flightmaster reference 145.013, powered by the caliber 910, represents a distinctive offering within the brand's chronograph catalog from the early 1970s. This particular reference is notable for its integrated chronograph and GMT functions, distinguishing it from other chronographs of the period that typically offered only timekeeping and stopwatch capabilities. Its design and functionality catered to a specific segment of watch enthusiasts seeking advanced utility.
This reference features a robust stainless steel case, housing the manual-winding Omega Caliber 910. The case diameter is 43mm, providing a substantial presence on the wrist. The watch is fitted with a mineral crystal, known for its durability. The movement offers a power reserve of 40 hours, ensuring reliable operation over an extended period. The case construction also provides a degree of water resistance suitable for daily wear.
Collectors often seek out the 145.013 for its unique combination of complications and its distinctive aesthetic. The multi-layered dial and multiple crowns are characteristic design elements that set it apart. This reference appeals to those interested in chronographs with additional functionality, representing a specific period of innovation in mechanical watchmaking.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 910
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 43mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 60m
- Crystal
- Mineral
About the Omega Flightmaster Ref. Flightmaster910
The Omega Flightmaster reference 910 is a distinctive pilot's chronograph introduced in the late 1960s. It represents Omega's venture into specialized aviation timepieces, featuring a robust case and a multi-scale dial designed for professional use. While often overshadowed by the Speedmaster, the Flightmaster series holds a unique position within Omega's historical chronograph offerings, known for its bold aesthetic and functional complexity.
This reference is powered by the manual-winding Omega Caliber 910, a cam-actuated chronograph movement with a 24-hour indicator. The case is typically stainless steel, characterized by its substantial size and integrated pushers. The dial configuration includes multiple colored hands for different time zones and chronograph functions, protected by a mineral crystal. Water resistance was standard for the period, though not emphasized for deep submersion.
For collectors, the Flightmaster 910 is valued for its unconventional design and its role as a tool watch from a specific era of aviation. Its unique dial layout, distinct case architecture, and the Caliber 910 movement differentiate it from other chronographs of the period. Examples in well-preserved, unpolished condition with original dial and hand sets are particularly sought after.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Omega Caliber 910
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 43 mm
- Dial
- Black with multi-colored accents
- Water Resist.
- 60 meters
- Crystal
- Mineral crystal
