Omega
Tropical 1970 OMEGA Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 145.022) Cal. 861
(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 1970 uses the earlier Caliber 861 movement. The original matte black stepped dial has achieved a wonderful tropical patina and retains it's original pre-moon seahorse case back. This specific example is a very rare last production pre-moon reference.
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 145.022 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.
SPECS
| Stock # | OMSPM70T | |
| Brand | Omega | |
| Style | Speedmaster Professional | |
| Model | 145.022 | |
| Serial | 29XXXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | SS | |
| Dial | Matte Black | |
| Millimeters | 42 | |
| Bracelet | Omega "Flat-Link" 1039 Bracelet W/ 516 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The strong case remains unpolished, retaining sharp factory lines and exhibits light honest wear from use. The original "dot over 90" bezel remains in excellent condition and has faded to a nice dark grey hue with some light signs of use. The "Omega" signed crown and pushers remain original to the watch. The seahorse engraved caseback remains intact and visible. The original Omega 1039 bracelet with 516 end pieces is dated to 1970 and remains unpolished with minimal stretch and wear.
DIAL & HANDS
The originally black "step" dial has achieved a wonderful tropical patina changing the color of the dial to a consistent brown coloration. The tritium markers have aged to a lovely creamy yellow patina, under U.V. light inspection the 3 o'clock marker exhibits minor degradation at the top of the step in the dial, the rest of the lume plots remain fully intact. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and show no degradation when inspected with U.V. light.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly, previous service history is unknown.