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Min. ReadThe Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space (FOiS) makes a grand return in 2024, blending vintage aesthetics with a modern movement and surprising new details. This latest edition revisits the heritage of one of Omega’s most iconic chronographs, celebrating its origins in space exploration.
First launched in 1957, the Omega Speedmaster gained fame during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, becoming the legendary "Moonwatch." However, its journey in space began earlier, on October 3, 1962, when astronaut Walter "Wally" Schirra wore his personal Omega Speedmaster CK2998 during the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission, marking the watch's first venture into space.
Astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirra with an Omega Speedmaster on the wrist – image by NASA
The second-generation Speedmaster, reference CK2998, featured key updates from its predecessor, including a black anodized aluminum bezel with a "base 500" tachymeter scale and distinctive Alpha hands. These innovations set the foundation for the Speedmaster's evolution and established its place in space history.
In 2012, Omega celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Mercury-Atlas 8 mission with a special edition Speedmaster FOiS, drawing inspiration from the CK2998. This model featured a 39.7mm symmetrical case, straight lugs, and a flat dial, emphasizing vintage styling with a contemporary touch. It was powered by the hand-wound caliber 1861, known for its reliability and precision.
The 2024 edition of the Speedmaster FOiS enhances its vintage appeal with a redesigned case, now thinner at 13.4mm, while maintaining the 39.7mm diameter and straight lugs. The black aluminum bezel includes the iconic "Dot Over Ninety" (DON), a detail that will please collectors.
A standout feature is the dial’s new grey-blue color with a sunray-brushed finish, evoking the tone of CK2998 models from the 1960s. Omega also reintroduced the step dial design, with vintage-styled logos and metallic Alpha hands, adding to its classic charm.
This new FOiS is powered by the state-of-the-art caliber 3861, Omega’s latest manual-winding movement. It features a co-axial escapement, silicon hairspring, and is Master Chronometer certified, ensuring high accuracy and resistance to magnetic fields. Though hidden by a solid case back, the movement's craftsmanship shines through in its functionality.
The 2024 Speedmaster FOiS is available with either a steel bracelet or a leather strap, both offering a touch of elegance to complement its vintage aesthetics. Unlike its predecessors, this model is not limited in production, making it a permanent addition to Omega’s iconic Speedmaster lineup.
The Omega Speedmaster First Omega in Space 2024 is now available through authorized dealers and Omega boutiques, carrying forward its legacy in both style and performance.
Case: 39.7mm diameter x 13.4mm thickness - 48mm length - stainless steel case, symmetrical, straight lugs, brushed and polished - fixed external steel bezel with black aluminium insert, DON tachyemeter scale - domed Hesalite-like sapphire crystal with Omega logo inside - solid steel caseback with special engravings - 50m water-resistant
Dial: grey-blue sunray-brushed step dial CVD-coated - Alpha steel hands, white varnished baton seconds hand - mix of baton and Alpha sub-dial hands - vintage applied Omega logo - vintage-coloured Super-LumiNova on hands and markers
Movement: calibre 3861 - in-house - Master Chronometer certified, resistant to magnetic fields - hand-wound cam-operated chronograph - 26 jewels - 21,600 vibrations/hour with co-axial escapement - silicon balance spring - rhodium-plated finish - hours, minutes, small seconds and chronograph
Bracelet: 19mm lug width - stainless steel flat-link bracelet with micro-adjustment folding clasp or leather strap (brown or black) with pin buckle
Reference:
310.30.40.50.06.001 (steel bracelet)
310.32.40.50.06.001 (black leather)
310.32.40.50.06.002 (brown leather)
Availability: permanent collection - available now
