The Omega Speedmaster. The name itself evokes images of lunar landings, daring adventures, and enduring horological excellence. Since its introduction in 1957, this iconic chronograph has captivated watch enthusiasts and cemented its place in history as one of the most recognizable and respected timepieces ever created. This article explores the fascinating generations of the Omega Speedmaster, delving into its rich history, diverse models, pricing, and ultimately, helping you understand what makes each generation unique.
Omega Speedmaster: Also Called...
While officially known as the Omega Speedmaster, this legendary watch has garnered numerous nicknames throughout its history, often reflecting its specific features or the era in which it was produced. Some of the most common monikers include:
* Moonwatch: This is arguably the most famous nickname, directly linked to its use by NASA astronauts during the Apollo missions. The Speedmaster's robustness and reliability in the harsh conditions of space solidified its legendary status as the "Moonwatch."
* Speedy: A shorter, more informal and affectionate nickname widely used within the watch community.
* Professional: This designation often refers to the specific model, the Speedmaster Professional, which is the direct descendant of the watch worn on the moon.
* Various model-specific nicknames: Many Speedmaster models have acquired nicknames based on their unique dials, cases, or movements, further enriching the watch's already rich history.
Omega Speedmaster Models by Year: A Chronological Exploration
Tracing the Omega Speedmaster's evolution through its various generations requires a detailed look at its model releases throughout the years. A complete year-by-year breakdown is beyond the scope of this article, but we can explore key milestones and significant generational shifts:
1957-1960s: The Birth of an Icon
The original Speedmaster, launched in 1957, was a robust chronograph designed for racing enthusiasts. Early models featured various case sizes and dial configurations, laying the foundation for the iconic design we know today. This era saw the development of the crucial features that would define the Speedmaster: a tachymeter bezel, a manual-winding chronograph movement, and a robust build capable of withstanding demanding conditions. This period is considered the "Broad Arrow" era, due to the distinctive shape of the hour markers. This is also the generation that eventually led to the model chosen by NASA.
1960s-1970s: The Moonwatch Era
The 1960s marked a pivotal moment in Speedmaster history. After rigorous testing by NASA, the Speedmaster Professional (reference ST 105.003, and later variations) was chosen as the official watch of the Apollo missions. This period saw the introduction of several significant references, including the ST 105.012, the 145.012, and the 145.022, which are highly sought-after collector's items today. These watches, worn on the lunar surface, cemented the Speedmaster's place in history and established its iconic status.
1970s-1980s: Evolution and Expansion
The 1970s and 1980s witnessed a diversification of the Speedmaster line. Omega introduced variations with different movements, case materials (including gold), and bracelet options, catering to a broader range of tastes and preferences. This era also saw the introduction of the Speedmaster Mark II, a more angular and modern design.
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