In the pivotal year of 1968, the Apollo 8 crew etched their names in history as the first humans to witness the mysterious far side of the moon. To pay homage to this extraordinary mission, OMEGA has unveiled a daring ceramic chronograph, a testament to the courage and innovation that propelled humanity into the cosmos. Join us as we delve into the intricate details of this tribute timepiece that brings the moon’s magic to your wrist.
Unveiling the Lunar Marvel:
The Apollo 8 mission left an indelible mark on space exploration, and OMEGA’s latest commemorative watch captures the essence of that historic journey. A striking skeletonised dial reveals the inner workings of the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3869. This movement attains the industry’s pinnacle of precision and showcases a laser-ablated moon relief on the meticulously crafted main plate and bridges. The lunar surface comes to life with unparalleled definition, achieved through laser engraving and contrasting surfaces, providing a breathtaking tribute to the astronauts’ lunar odyssey.
Saturn V Hand and Lunar Detailing:
At 9 o’clock, a small seconds hand in grade 5 Titanium takes the form of NASA’s iconic Saturn V rocket. Laser turning achieves the 3D structure, while white varnish, ablation, and laser blackening add the finishing touches, celebrating the prowess of NASA’s Apollo launch vehicle.
Colours of the Cosmos:
To add a pop of contrast to the black and grey palette, OMEGA introduces a varnished yellow central seconds hand and a tachymeter scale filled with white “Grand Feu” enamel. The vibrant hues echo the dynamism of space and evoke a sense of awe, transforming the watch into a wearable work of art.
Journey to the Far Side:
The transparent caseback serves as a window to the soul of the timepiece, adorned with the poignant words, “WE’LL SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE.” These words pay homage to Jim Lovell’s final message to ground control just before Apollo 8 embarked on its historic voyage to the far side of the moon. The caseback invites wearers to connect with the spirit of exploration that transcends the boundaries of our celestial neighbour.
A Timepiece of Distinction:
In crafting the Apollo 8 Speedmaster Chronograph, OMEGA has taken an orbital journey around the moon, capturing the essence of space exploration with the finest materials and unparalleled craftsmanship. The result is a timepiece that tells the story of human exploration beyond our planet and invites each wearer to embark on their own celestial adventure.
As you fasten the Apollo 8 Speedmaster around your wrist, you’re not just wearing a watch; you’re carrying a piece of history—a tribute to the courage and curiosity that led humanity to the far side of the moon. OMEGA’s celestial masterpiece is a reminder that exploring the cosmos is an enduring journey, and now, with the Apollo 8 Speedmaster Chronograph, that journey is yours to embrace.
APOLLO 8
SPEEDMASTER
DARK SIDE OF THE MOON
44.25 MM, BLACK CERAMIC ON RUBBER STRAP
Reference: 310.92.44.50.01.001
MOVEMENT Calibre: OMEGA 3869
Manual-winding chronograph movement with Co-Axial escapement. Certified Master Chronometer, approved by METAS, resistant to magnetic fields reaching 15,000 gauss. Moon-relief textured and blackened on the main plate and bridges, with greater lunar detail compared to previous Calibre 1869 thanks to defined laser engraving and contrasting surfaces. Nickel coated wheels and black gold coated balance wheel. Free-sprung balance with silicon balance spring. Power reserve: 50 hours
CRYSTAL Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides
WATER RESISTANCE 5 bar (50 metres / 167 feet)
WATCH CASE & DIAL Case: Black ceramic Case Diameter: 44.25 mm Between lugs: 21 mm Dial Colour: Black
BRACELET Material: Rubber strap Strap color: Black Buckle type: Foldover clasp Buckle material: Ceramic
FEATURES Anti-magnetic, chronograph, chronometer, master chronometer certified, small seconds, tachymeter, transparent caseback
