1970 Omega Speedmaster 145.022-69 Apollo XI
The Omega Speedmaster 145.022-69 Apollo XI, introduced in 1970, holds a unique place in the annals of horology and space exploration. This watch is a member of the Speedmaster family, which Omega began producing in 1957, originally intended for motorsports enthusiasts. However, the Speedmaster’s design, durability, and precision caught the attention of NASA, and by the mid-1960s, it was selected as the official watch for all manned space missions. The 145.022-69 variant was created to commemorate the Apollo 11 mission — the historic lunar landing on July 20, 1969.
This 145.022 was not only the first solid gold Speedmaster introduced but has actual space history, much more significantly than just about anything else post-moon landing. The pale gold dial, onyx indices, ‘OM’ Swiss signature in place of T (for Or Massif, the French for solid gold), Iconic "dot over ninety" bezel burgundy bezel, and painted red lettered caseback with an individual numbered marking. This specific model being in the 500’s. Being the gold version of horological celebratory conclusion of the space race, executed by Omega as a victory lap; American optimism, accomplishment, and opulence in Swiss Speedmaster format. This model is powered by the transition caliber 861 movement, replacing the previous caliber 321. The caliber 861 was a more robust and cost-effective movement, which also allowed Omega to maintain the high standards of precision and reliability required for space missions.
This original gold Speedy was a numbered run of 1014; in series, numbers 1 and 2 went to President Nixon and VP Mr. Agnew respectively. 3-28 went to NASA astronauts, 29-32 went to Swiss friends & family, and 33-1000 were offered to the public. Interesting, 1001-1008 went to Apollo 14 & 17 crews, with 1009-1014 going to ‘other personalities’ (no one knows). The President’s and VP’s watches were refused per US law and currently reside in the Omega Museum. It’s a sort of luxurious trophy-tool-watch, taking the chronograph that helped land man on the moon and giving it deserved nobility.
"On the warranty booklet, you can find the serial number of the watch, but also the reference number 345.022. Quite an unusual indication of the reference number for this watch, but in some cases, Omega used a ‘3’ instead of a ‘1’ to indicate it came with a (gold) metal bracelet instead of a leather strap". - Fratello
Information:
Pre-Owned: 1970 Omega Speedmaster 145.022-69 Apollo XI
Reference: 145.022-69 Apollo XI
Dated: 1970
Limited: 1014 Pieces
Bracelet: Clasp code 1116/575 - 18k Yellow Gold
Lug Width: 20mm
Case Metal: 18k Yellow Gold - 42mm
Movement: Omega 861 - Manual - running (+15 s/d 316 amp)
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Chronograph
Box and Papers: Warranty Papers - No box
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.25”
Condition: Great
Case is unpolished showing only minimal wear. Bracelet has very minimal wear with one scratch up top by the 12 end link, practically no stretch as well. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear. Bezel has little to no wear. Running (+15 s/d 316 amp).
