The year was 1969. A giant leap for mankind had been taken, and the world watched in awe as Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon. This momentous occasion, indelibly linked to the Omega Speedmaster Professional, spurred a wave of commemorative timepieces. Among the most sought-after is the Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition in steel, a watch that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of that historic achievement and the enduring legacy of the Speedmaster itself. Released to mark half a century since the Apollo 11 moon landing, this limited edition, restricted to a mere 6,969 pieces, stands as a testament to Omega's commitment to horological excellence and its inextricable link to space exploration.
This article will delve deep into the intricacies of this highly collectible timepiece, exploring its design, specifications, historical significance, and its place within the broader context of Omega's Speedmaster lineage. We'll also examine the current market value, addressing queries regarding Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 price, omega moonwatch 50th anniversary price, and the overall desirability of the moonwatch Apollo 11 50th anniversary and Omega Speedmaster moonwatch 50th anniversary models. Finally, we will consider the broader appeal of the omega Apollo 11 anniversary edition and Omega Speedmaster moonwatch th anniversary releases, placing this specific watch within the larger narrative of Omega's celebration of its iconic chronograph.
A Design Reflecting History and Innovation:
The Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Limited Edition in steel is not simply a rehash of previous models; it's a carefully considered evolution. The 42mm stainless steel case, a classic Speedmaster size, provides a comfortable and robust foundation. The polished 18K Moonshine™ Gold bezel, a material exclusive to Omega, offers a warm, subtly luminous contrast to the cool steel. Moonshine™ Gold, a proprietary alloy developed by Omega, possesses a paler, more subtly reflective quality than traditional yellow gold, lending a unique aesthetic to the watch. This choice of materials represents a perfect blend of heritage and modern innovation.
The bezel ring itself is crafted from polished black ceramic [ZrO2], a material known for its scratch resistance and enduring beauty. The tachymeter scale, a crucial element for any Speedmaster, is applied using Omega's innovative Ceragold™ technology. This process involves embedding 18K gold into the ceramic, ensuring the scale's longevity and legibility. The combination of ceramic and Ceragold™ is a hallmark of Omega's commitment to creating watches that are both aesthetically pleasing and incredibly durable.
The dial, a classic Speedmaster design, is presented in a subtle, elegant grey. The applied hour markers and hands are filled with Super-LumiNova, providing excellent legibility in low-light conditions. This is a crucial feature, echoing the practical functionality required for a watch designed for use in extreme environments. The sub-dials, meticulously arranged, are perfectly balanced and contribute to the watch's overall sense of harmony. The date window, subtly integrated at 6 o'clock, maintains the classic Speedmaster aesthetic without disrupting the overall balance.
The caseback features a special engraving commemorating the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11, a detail that further enhances the watch's collectible nature. This engraving, often featuring imagery related to the moon landing or the Speedmaster's role in the mission, solidifies its position as a tribute to a pivotal moment in human history. The inclusion of the limited edition number adds to its exclusivity and desirability.