Omega Speedmaster Watches

The Watch That Walked on the Moon

On July 20, 1969, Buzz Aldrin stepped onto the lunar surface wearing an Omega Speedmaster Professional (ST105.012) — the first watch worn on the moon. NASA had tested every chronograph available in 1964, subjecting them to extreme temperatures, vacuum, shock, and acceleration. Only the Speedmaster passed every test. That single event transformed it from a racing chronograph into the most historically significant wristwatch ever produced. Unlike almost every other "iconic" watch, the Moonwatch's status is documented fact — verified by NASA flight logs and preserved in the Smithsonian. Every Speedmaster Professional sold today is still qualified for extravehicular activity under NASA standards.

The Speedmaster Family

Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional The reference that went to the moon — still in production. The current Hesalite version (310.30.42.501.001) uses caliber 3861, a manual-wind movement descended from the original 321. The sapphire version (310.30.42.501.002) offers a display caseback but adds 0.5mm thickness. Both carry the 42mm asymmetric case, dot-over-90 bezel, and step dial that collectors have demanded for over five decades. The Moonwatch is one of the few mechanical watches where pre-owned pricing holds close to retail.

Speedmaster '57 The retro interpretation. The '57 re-edition captures the broad-arrow handset aesthetic of the 1957 CK2915 in a 40.5mm case with Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber 9906. A date window and sapphire crystal distinguish it from the Moonwatch. For buyers who want the vintage look with modern proportions and magnetic resistance.

Speedmaster Reduced The 39mm entry point. Automatic caliber based on ETA 2892 with Dubois-Dépraz chronograph module. Pre-owned examples in steel can be found for $2,500–$3,800 — the most accessible way into the Speedmaster family.

Moonwatch vs. '57 vs. Reduced

Pre-Owned Pricing Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Hesalite or sapphire Moonwatch?
A: Hesalite is historically correct (what NASA issued) with a warmer domed profile collectors prefer. It scratches easily but polishes out at home. Sapphire is more practical with a display caseback but adds thickness. For collector appeal: Hesalite. For daily wear: sapphire.

Q: Is caliber 3861 a significant upgrade over 1861?
A: Yes. The 3861 (2021+) adds a Co-Axial escapement, free-sprung balance, and better chronometric performance. Both are excellent manual-wind chronographs — the 1861 remains proven and reliable.

Q: Why does the Moonwatch hold value so well?
A: Historical significance creates permanent demand. The Moonwatch is the only watch with verifiable lunar heritage, and its design has remained virtually unchanged for 55+ years. Every Moonwatch is desirable, which supports the secondary market.

Sell or Trade Your Speedmaster

Our specialists provide transparent valuations for every Speedmaster reference. We understand the nuances: caliber generation (3861 vs. 1861 vs. 861), crystal type, bezel variation (dot-over-90, aluminum vs. ceramic), and the presence of original NASA presentation box or extract from the archives. Walk into our 47th Street showroom for an immediate appraisal, or use our fully insured Parcel Pro shipping label for a remote evaluation with same-day payment.

Visit Us in the Diamond District

Our showroom: 20 W 47th St., Suite 401, New York, NY 10036. Walk-ins welcome.

Hours: Mon–Fri 9 AM – 6 PM | Sat–Sun Closed | Phone: +1 (646) 429-9412