1970 OMEGA Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 145.022) "USAF"

(Alan Bean With An Omega Speedmaster Professional On Lunar Surface Of The Moon)

The Omega Speedmaster Professional is by far one of our most favorite chronographs. The Speedmaster has an incredible history starting with automotive racing moving into flight and eventually to NASA and the U.S. Space Program.  There are many subtle differences within the vintage Omega Speedmaster range of references that make them all slightly unique and different.

(NASA Astronaut Thomas Stafford With two Omega Speedmaster Professional Speedmaster's During "Suit Up")

This Omega Speedmaster transitional model Ref. 145.022 dates this specific example too early 1970 uses the earlier Caliber 861 movement. The original matte black stepped dial has achieved a wonderful patina and the bezel insert has the original "dot next to 90: bezel, and pre-moon seahorse case back. This specific example is a very rare last production pre-moon reference. 

The step dial or "Pie Pan" Omega Speedmasters possess a charm and feel that that the new modern equivalents don't seem to quite have. The Ref 145.022 with the workhorse Cal. 861 movement is clearly built to last. The Speedmaster looks great on the bracelet as well as a handcrafted leather strap. It is one of our favorite chronographs due to its timeless design and functionality. Its versatility to be paired with the most formal and the most casual of wardrobe also makes the Speedmaster a good choice for the first vintage timepiece and or a classic daily driver.

The excellent case has been lightly polished in the past and retains full lugs with minimal signs of previous use. The original tachymetre "dot next to 90" bezel is in exceptional condition, showing no age or fading. The case retains its original Omega signed crown and pump pushers. The transitional "pre-moon" case back retains all of its original factory markings and features a deep and original engraving that reads " James J. Burns, USAF". The original Omega 1039 bracelet with 516 end pieces is stamped 3/70 and retains 23 links that show only light stretch from use.

The beautiful matte black "pie-pan" dial is in flawless condition, perfectly preserved with no age or damage present. The tritium lume plots have aged to a charming yellow patina and exhibit no degradation under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hands are also in perfect condition with no damage or degradation visible under U.V. light inspection. 

None. The watch was recently polished and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.