The Omega Speedmaster Professional, affectionately known as the Moonwatch, holds a legendary status in horological history, inextricably linked to humanity's first steps on the lunar surface. But before the iconic stepped bezel and broader recognition, Omega produced a fascinating, and significantly rarer, precursor: the Speedmaster with "straight writing." This article delves into the intricacies of this early Moonwatch variant, exploring its historical significance, design nuances, and its current position in the collector's market.
This specific reference, often referred to as the "straight writing" Speedmaster, represents Omega's immediate response to the momentous Apollo 11 mission in 1969. It's crucial to understand that this isn't a single watch but rather a collection of subtly different iterations, adding to its allure and complexity for collectors. While the broader Speedmaster lineage boasts a rich history, the straight writing models occupy a unique and highly sought-after niche. Their rarity, coupled with their direct connection to the burgeoning space race and the subsequent lunar landings, drives their significant value in the current market.
The Genesis of a Legend: Three Versions of the Straight Writing Speedmaster
The term "straight writing" refers to the inscription "Speedmaster" on the dial. Unlike later models that featured a curved inscription, these early pieces boast a clean, horizontal alignment of the brand name. This seemingly minor detail is a key identifier, distinguishing these watches from their successors. The variations among these early post-Apollo models are subtle but significant, making authentication and accurate identification crucial for collectors. These variations primarily center around the dial, movement, and case details:
* Version 1: This is arguably the most sought-after and rarest of the three. It often features a specific type of tritium lume, a slightly different font for the "Speedmaster" inscription, and minor variations in the dial printing. These subtle differences often require expert examination to identify conclusively. The movement within these early models also contributes to their rarity and value.
* Version 2: Version 2 represents a transitional phase, showing some evolutionary changes compared to the original. The lume might be slightly different, and other minor design elements might be subtly altered. This version still carries the coveted straight writing, but the overall aesthetic feels slightly more refined than its predecessor.
* Version 3: This version sits closest to the transition to the more widely known stepped bezel Speedmasters. While still retaining the straight writing, it often shows a greater similarity to the subsequent models, paving the way for the design elements that would become synonymous with the Moonwatch.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Original Price:
Determining the original price of these straight writing Speedmasters is challenging. Records from the late 1960s are not always readily available, and prices would have varied based on the specific retailer and market conditions. However, it's safe to say that these watches were comparatively affordable compared to their current market value. They were positioned as high-quality, professional chronographs, but not necessarily luxury items in the same vein as some contemporary high-end watches. The original price would have likely been in the range of a few hundred dollars, a far cry from their current six-figure valuation in pristine condition.
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