Omega Speedmaster 'Galaxy Express 999' 3571.50
Omega has always had a soft spot for the Japanese market and this Speedmaster is a example of that. The 3571.50 “Galaxy Express 999” is a limited edition of 1999 pieces based off the manga, exclusively to the Japanese market. On the wrist it wears just like any other speedmaster, but hidden on the case back is the engraving of the character “Maetel“ and the signature of “Leiji Matsumoto” the creator of the manga. This watch is particular is in excellent condition appearing unpolished, and the dial very clean.
One of the main characters from the Galaxy Express 999 (which is a futuristic space train) is mysterious lady Maetel, as pictured above. The only thing that reveals the Omega Speedmaster Professional being a special edition is the case back that has a medallion of Maetel character painted as well as the number of the watch, a signature of author Matsumoto and “999”. In total, there were 1999 pieces of this watch produced and delivered to Japan. The production number corresponds with the year of production (1999) and of course also winks at the ‘999’ of the title of the manga series.
Information:
Reference: 3571.50 (Galaxy Express 999)
Serial: 77,03X,XXX
Year: September 1997
Bracelet: Stainless-Steel Bracelet
Case Size: 42mm
Lug Width: 20mm
Case Metal: Stainless Steel
Movement: 1861 - Manual - Serviced 8/16/24 - One year warranty
Functions: Hour, Minute, Second, Chronograph
Box and Papers: None - Watch Only
Crystal: Hesalite
Bracelet size: 7.25”
Condition: Great
Case is in good shape with light wear. Bracelet is in great shape with light micro wear. Dial and hands are in great shape. Crystal is in great shape. Watch runs great and was serviced 5/10/24.
About Omega
Omega's journey began in 1848 when Louis Brandt established a small watchmaking workshop in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. The company quickly gained recognition for its precise timepieces, and under Brandt's sons' leadership, it pioneered mass production techniques without compromising quality. Omega's reputation grew through prestigious awards, precision records, and its role as the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games. The company's defining moment came in 1969 when the Omega Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission.
Throughout its history, Omega has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking technology and design. The company weathered the quartz crisis of the 1970s and emerged stronger under the Swatch Group's umbrella. Omega continued to innovate with introductions like the Co-Axial escapement and anti-magnetic movements. Today, Omega maintains its status as a luxury watchmaking leader with four main collections: Speedmaster, Seamaster, Constellation, and De Ville. The brand balances its rich heritage with cutting-edge innovations, exemplified by its Master Chronometer Certification and ongoing partnerships with the Olympic Games, Snoopy, and the James Bond franchise.
