The Omega Speedmaster ’57 Collection: A Space Odyssey
The Omega Speedmaster has earned its place in the pantheon of legendary watches, not only for its impeccable design and precise timekeeping but also for its extraordinary history as the first watch on the moon. The latest Speedmaster ’57 Collection, a tribute to the original 1957 Speedmaster, has evolved over the years while still embracing its storied past.
The Omega Speedmaster CK 2915, launched in 1957, was initially designed as a racing chronograph for drivers and engineers. However, its precision and robustness would soon lead to its adoption by NASA and subsequent immortalisation as the first watch worn on the moon.
In 1962, astronaut Wally Schirra wore his personal Omega Speedmaster CK 2998, a successor to the CK 2915, during the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission. This event marked the beginning of the Speedmaster’s association with space exploration. In 1965, after rigorous testing, NASA officially qualified the Speedmaster for all manned space missions. On July 20, 1969, when Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin stepped onto the lunar surface, Aldrin’s Omega Speedmaster Professional became the first watch on the moon. This historic moment cemented the Speedmaster’s status as an icon of space exploration and horological achievement.
Over the years, OMEGA has released several variations of the Speedmaster ’57, paying tribute to the original design while incorporating modern technology and materials. These updated models have included features such as day-date complications, moon phase displays, and even a limited-edition perpetual calendar for the Japanese market. The 2022 OMEGA Speedmaster ’57 represents the latest evolution of this iconic timepiece, combining elements of the original design with cutting-edge watchmaking technology.
The beating heart of this new collection is the manual-wind Omega Calibre 9906, a Master Chronometer-certified movement with twin mainspring barrels, a column wheel, and an impressive 60-hour power reserve. Its slim profile allows for a smaller case size, making the 2022 Speedmaster ’57 the smallest Master Chronometer-certified Speedmaster yet.
The new Speedmaster ’57 models feature a redesigned stainless-steel case that closely resembles the original CK 2915. Straight lugs, absent crown guards, and a symmetrical caseband pay tribute to the first Speedmaster, while the case diameter is a comfortable 40.5mm, making it accessible for a wide range of wrist sizes.
The new Speedmaster ’57 also pays homage to its heritage with thoughtful design details such as the “broad arrow” hands, the applied OMEGA logo, and the dot over 90 on the tachymeter bezel – all of which are reminiscent of the original 1957 model. Dial variations include black, blue, burgundy, and dark green. The black dial features sunken hour markers, while the other colour variations showcase applied hour markers. All models incorporate vintage-hued Super-LumiNova, enhancing readability while staying true to the classic aesthetic.
Adding a dose of Hollywood glamour to things is none other than actor and long-time friend of OMEGA, George Clooney who can be seen donning the stainless steel model with a PVD blue dial (ref: 332.10.41.51.03.001) while driving a vintage car near his home around Lake Como – a nod to the Speedmaster’s racing origins.
As the watch world continues to evolve, the OMEGA Speedmaster ’57 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a classic design, the pursuit of technical excellence, and the indelible connection between a watch and its history.
