| Reference | 2998-61 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Omega Speedmaster |
| Movement | Hand-wound |
| Year of production (circa) | 1963 |
| Material | Steel |
| Crystal | Mineral |
| Dial color | Black |
| Diameter | 39 mm |
| Bracelet/strap: | Steel |
| Lug Width | 19 mm |
A-Omega Speedmaster
Omega Speedmaster Ref. 2998-61
We are very proud to present this stunning Omega Speedmaster Ref. CK2998-61.
This Speedmaster has become known as FOIS, for First Omega In Space. An example of the CK2998 was worn by astronaut Wally Schirra as far back as 1963, during his mission. If our estimate is right, that is a mere half year after our watch was produced.
The CK2998 is already fitted with the iconic Caliber 321 column wheel chronograph. It differs from later models in its slightly smaller diameter, straight lugs and Alpha-style handset.
Our example comes with a stunning combination of a faded-to-grey bezel and yellowed lume. This is about as pretty as they come.
The original bracelet is also present, although quite worn. Our advice would be to wear this on a beautiful leather strap and keep the bracelet for collectability’s sake.
The CK2998-61 is a key reference within Speedmaster history. Also important: if you factor in its historic significance and technical prowess, it is still very much under-valued as compared to some competing chronographs out there. *Cough..Daytona..Cough.
Omega themselves paid hommage to this great model with the re-issued CK-2998 Speedmaster in two colours. But if your budget allows it, we would always opt for the real deal!
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Details
Backstory
Shipping
Reference
2998-61
Dial color
Black
Brand
Omega Speedmaster
Diameter
39 mm
Movement
Hand-wound
Bracelet/strap:
Steel
Year of production (circa)
1963
Lug Width
19 mm
Material
Steel
Warranty
2 year (AWCo)
Crystal
Mineral
The Omega Speedmaster was introduced in 1957, as a racing chronograph. Little did Omega know that a different fate altogether awaited their creation.
When John F. Kennedy announced that the USA would put a man on the moon before the end of the 1960’s, NASA went into overdrive. The Gemini and Apollo missions would all culminate in “One small step for man…” in 1969.
One detail within that endeavor, is the selection of a proper watch for the space missions. NASA started putting a number of chronographs from different brands under extreme stress. Shock, temperature change, vibration, humidity, the watches were spared no horror. The Speedmaster came out on top in 1965 and was selected as the watch of choice. No slick marketing deals here. Chosen on merit alone.
Coincidentally, astronaut Wally Schirra already wore his personal Ref. CK2998 Speedmaster on a Mercury mission in 1962. In 1965, Ed White would go on the first ever spacewalk wearing a NASA-issued Ref. 105.003-65.
From 1965 onwards, all Apollo astronauts wore Speedmasters. Including Buzz Aldrin when he set foot on the moon, wearing his Ref. 105.012. Neil Armstrong had left his Speedy in the lunar module when setting those legendary first steps.
In 1970, Apollo 13 got into serious trouble after a service-module oxygen tank ruptured. With most systems down, the astronauts had to manually time 14-second rocket bursts in order to get back to earth. They used Jack Swigert’s Speedmaster for the job. Omega was awarded the Snoopy award in recognition of the crucial role of the watch in a safe return. A comic character featured on many special editions since.
Aesthetically, the Speedmaster Professional has not changed much since those days. A rough division can be made between pre-moon and post-moon Speedies. The transition point is the inclusion of the “Flight qualified by NASA” inscriptions on the case back, although some people erroneously mark 321 caliber Speedies as pre-moon and 861 caliber variants as post-moon.
For the keen-eyed, there are tons of subtle variations within the Speedmaster line. And that is before we look at the broader Speedy-scope, with all its special editions and interestingly-shaped Mark models. You can really go deep on Speedy-specifics. Regardless of which precise variant you settle on, you will have an iconic watch with the single best backstory ever.
At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.
We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.
Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.