Omega

1968 OMEGA Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 145.012) Cal. 321 "Pre-Moon" W/ Decimal Bezel

 Alan Bean With An Omega Speedmaster Professional On Lunar Surface Of The 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 Omega Speedmaster Professional On Astronaut Stafford

(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. 

 

This ref. 145.012 Speedmaster Professional possesses a very rare bezel variant sought-after by every Speedmaster enthusiast out there, the "decimal track bezel", which is much different both functionally and aesthetically than the standard tachymetre bezel. The step dial or "Pie Pan" Omega Speedmaster's possess a charm and feel that 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 # OMSPM68-5
Brand Omega
Style Speedmaster Professional
Model 145.012
Serial 265XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black "Applied Logo"
Millimeters 42
Bracelet 2pc Handmade Leather Strap

CASE & BRACELET

The strong asymmetric case shows signs of being very lightly polished in the past, retaining thick and crisp lugs with factory dimensions and honest signs of use. The original and rare decimal bezel is deep black in coloration and displays only very minor signs of previous use. The case retains its original "flat foot" signed crown and pump pushers. The original "pre-moon" case back markings remain deep and fully intact. The watch will come supplied on a 2pv handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The matte black applied logo "pie pan" dial is very well preserved and in beautiful condition, the dial itself shows no blemishes or major signs of age. The sub-dials are in excellent condition, showing no age or wear. The tritium lume plots have taken on a beautiful yellow coloration, under U.V. light inspection there is some consistent degradation in the lume plots which is common for early Speedmasters. The original tritium hands have aged slightly darker than the dial and match the overall aesthetic of the watch, the white paint of the hour hand does show some light chipping, under U.V. light inspection the hour and minute hands do show some light lume loss and remain stable, the chronograph hand remains fully intact.

ACCESSORIES

None. The watch is keeping time and functioning properly, previous service history is unknown.