Omega
1968 OMEGA Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 145.012) Cal. 321 "Pre-Moon"
(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. 145.012 dates this specific example too late 1968 uses the earlier Caliber 321 movement. The original matte black stepped dial with applied Omega logo has achieved a wonderful patina and the bezel insert has the original dot over 90 (DON) bezel, and pre-moon seahorse case back.
The step dial or "Pie Pan" Omega Speedmasters possess a charm and feel that the new modern equivalents don't seem to quite have. The Ref 145.012 with the workhorse Cal. 321 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.
SPECS
| Stock # | OMSPM68-6 | |
| Brand | Omega | |
| Style | Speedmaster Professional | |
| Model | 145.012 | |
| Serial | 265XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Applied Logo" | |
| Millimeters | 42 | |
| Bracelet | Komfit "JB" Mesh Watch Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent asymmetrical Speedmaster case has been very lightly polished in the past and retains very full lugs that show light signs of honest use. The original "dot over 90" tachymetre bezel is in overall exceptional condition with minimal signs of use and fading. The case retains its original "flat-foot" crown, and pump pushers. The "pre-moon" case back retains its original markings in visible condition with light signs of use. The watch comes supplied on a Forstner Komfit "JB" Mesh Bracelet.
DIAL & HANDS
The original applied logo "pie-pan" dial is in remarkably well preserved condition with no blemishes or major signs of age. The tritium lume plots have aged to a charming yellow patina, under U.V. light inspection all of the lume plots remain mostly intact with some light degradation present in some of the plots. The original tritium hands show some light paint loss and the minute and hour hand lume has aged to a dark patina, the center chronograph hands matches the dial perfectly. Under U.V. light inspection the minute hand features some light lume loss and remains stable, the hour and chronograph hand display no degradation.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.