201 Omega Highly Rare and Important, Speedmaster, Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Made to Commemorate the Apollo XI Moon Landing, With Extract from the Archives

Estimate: €25,000 –⁠ 50,000

Model: Speedmaster, Apollo XI 1969 - Tribute to Astronauts
Reference: 145.022 BA
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1969
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 861
Case N°: 718
Movement N°: 28420796
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

The Omega Speedmaster Apollo XI model, reference 145 022, is a chronograph crafted in yellow gold, released to commemorate the historic moon landing. A total of 1 014 units were produced, with the first and second examples intended for President Nixon and Vice-President Spiro Agnew of the United States. However, due to compliance reasons, these were declined and now reside in the Omega Museum. The initial 32 pieces were presented at a gala dinner in Houston to mission astronauts, each engraved with “To Mark Man’s Conquest of Space with Time, Through Time, on Time.” The remaining watches were sold to the general public, and like the present example, number 718, they feature an engraved back reading, “Omega Speedmaster - Apollo XI 1969 - The First Watch Worn on the Moon.” There are three variations of the engraving: thin and unpainted for approximately the first 100 examples, then thick and unpainted, and finally thick and painted in burgundy, matching the burgundy-colored bezel. This particular watch belongs to the latter category, with thick painted lettering. The 145 022 is highly appealing with its gold dial, onyx numerals, and distinctive burgundy bezel. The present lot is offered in remarkable overall condition and is further enhanced by the inclusion of its extract from the Archives directly from Omega, with all the informations registered on it.