The Speedmaster was the first OMEGA to reach space when astronaut Walter Schirra wore the watch during the ‘Sigma 7’ mission of the Mercury Programme in 1962. Schirra purchased the watch for his own use, but two and a half years later the Speedmaster was officially certified by NASA for all manned-missions, launching it into history.
Since that first mission Omega has maintained a relationship with NASA and support for space exploration, astronomy and allied sciences with a variety of programs and sponsorships. Through its partnership with the Starmus Festival – a biennial festival bringing together leading scientists, astronauts and artists who share passion for knowledge – Omega proudly sponsors the Stephen Hawking Medal, one of the world’s most celebrated science communication awards. Each medal recipient receives a 42 mm 18K yellow gold Speedmaster Moonwatch First Omega in Space edition with the words “WINNER OF THE STEPHEN HAWKING MEDAL FOR SCIENCE COMMUNICATION” engraved on the caseback. This years festival, held in Zurich, was a tribute to the NASA’s lunar program and the Apollo astronauts’ first step on the Moon. The winners were Elon Musk, Brian Eno, the makers of the documentary Apollo 11, and NASA legend Buzz Aldrin.
A smaller version of the Speedmaster Moonwatch First in Space chronograph ($18,000.00) is available from omegawatches.com. Updated with a 37.9 mm Sedna gold case, this limited-edition version includes the original 1962 Seahorse emblem, along with special engravings including “THE FIRST OMEGA IN SPACE”, “OCTOBER 3, 1962” and “NUMBERED EDITION No.”
