Omega Speedmaster 60th Anniversary Vienna GTG

KMII · 2017-03-17T00:36:00Z

Explore Omega Speedmaster's 60th Anniversary in Vienna with Brand Heritage Manager Petros Protopapas, featuring rare models, Alaska II prototype, and community insights.

KMII

WPS member · Omega forum

18 replies5969 views5 photos

KMII's post offers a captivating look into Omega's 60th Speedmaster Anniversary event in Vienna, highlighting the brand's rich heritage and the enduring appeal of its iconic Moonwatch. The event, featuring Omega's International Brand Heritage Manager Petros Protopapas, provided attendees with a unique opportunity to explore rare Speedmaster models and delve into the watch's storied connection to space exploration. This article synthesizes the key takeaways from KMII's original post and the subsequent community discussion, offering insights into the Speedmaster's historical significance and collector appeal.

Those of you who have been to the first, legendary Vienna GTG know that Magnus is a mastermind organiser and he has surprised us Vienna based Purists with another small gem this week - an invitation by Omega to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Speedmaster line, hosted by the Vienna Boutique / Museum and having Petros Protopapas - Omega's International Brand Heritage Manager - as a 'star guest'.

As previously stated here in Ken's landmark article on the Speedmaster history (see here: http://www.watchprosite.com/page-wf.forumpost/fi-677/pi-7607273/ti-1054643/s-0/t--speedy-fans-a-true-story-about-omega-speedmaster-and-nasa-space-program/ for more details), Mr. Protopapas is an incredibly knowledgeable and curious individual, pairing this with real charm and kindness. He even did not mind my interest in the 'darker sides' of Omega history, namely some quartz models like the Seamaster Marine Chronometer or the Seamaster Polaris Titane (in titanium / palladium)

At the same time he also managed to find the right balance in his lecture on the Speedmaster history, making it interesting both to hardcore collectors as well as those who had a sparser knowledge of the fine minutiae of the space program or Omega's connection to it. Counting myself rather towards the latter part of the spectrum, I found the presentation increadibly helpful. In line with the event, the exhibits in the Vienna Museum have been altered somewhat, too. Those who have attended last year's GTG would surely have recognised some pieces but there was enough new material to make regular visits interesting.

In addition to the watches, they for instance had one of the few remaining Hasselblad Lunar Surface Cameras - a testament to astronauts sometimes not following procedure to the letter. These were namely to be left behind on the moon as excess ballast but some were not. This is an actual example having seen the moon and is on permanent loan to Omega from the Smithsonian Museum.

All the generations of the Moonwatch were present, too, including the solid YG models that have been made by Omega as a present to the astronauts and to president Nixon (who declined to accept the gift).

As one of the highlights, Mr. Protopapas pulled an Alaska II prototype out of his coat pocket and allowed us to take a closer look. The Alaska project is one that will get covered a lot more heavily in the future, as some very interesting new findings have emerged in the recent research endeavour. This generation was no longer encased in titanium but in brushed steel - the matt finishing being essential for its non-glare properties.

Here a parting shot of what the event was all about - the Speedmaster Professional. I can only express my sincere gratitude to Omega and to Magnus for the opportunity to participate in this fascinating event and I have to say that having an 'International Brand Heritage Manager' who is an avid fan of the Omega Flightmaster is bound to be a recipe for success

About the Omega Ref. Seamaster300

The Seamaster 300 reference is a re-edition that draws inspiration from Omega's historical dive watches. It is characterized by its robust construction and design elements that pay homage to early professional timepieces, while incorporating modern watchmaking advancements. This reference is positioned as a contemporary interpretation for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics combined with current performance standards.

This particular Seamaster 300 features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 41 mm in diameter. It is equipped with an automatic movement, often a Master Co-Axial caliber, providing a substantial power reserve. The watch is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal, contributing to its vintage appearance while offering enhanced scratch resistance. Its construction ensures a high degree of water resistance suitable for aquatic activities.

For collectors, this reference appeals to those seeking a blend of historical design and modern technical specifications. It represents Omega's commitment to its heritage while offering a reliable and well-engineered timepiece. The Seamaster 300 is a significant part of the brand's contemporary collection, offering a distinct alternative to other models within the Seamaster family.

Specifications

Caliber: Omega 8400

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 41 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 300m

Crystal: Domed sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

A Viennese collector brought a 1959 'First in Space' model, showcasing an early and significant piece in the Speedmaster's history.
Petros Protopapas, Omega's Brand Heritage Manager, wore an ultra-rare 1967 Speedmaster Ultraman, indicating its special status among collectors.
The event also featured a 1969 Speedmaster MK II, highlighting the evolution of the Speedmaster line.
The Alaska II prototype, encased in brushed steel for non-glare properties, was a highlight, with new research findings expected to emerge.
Petros Protopapas is praised for his encyclopedic knowledge, pleasant sense of humor, and genuine curiosity, making him an engaging speaker.
The presence of a Hasselblad Lunar Surface Camera, on loan from the Smithsonian Museum, underscored the Speedmaster's authentic connection to space missions.

The Discussion

zabreg1 Mr White

Mar 17, 2017

I wish I was there, knowing last year's GTG and Magnus' organizational skills.

KMII

Mar 17, 2017

I also needed to leave early, so no tableshots or shots of grappa this time But a great, very instructive evening nevertheless!

nilomis

Mar 17, 2017

I'm joking. The Alaska II is just fantastic!!! Thanks for posting. Cheers, Nilo

KMII

Mar 17, 2017

It would be a pleasure at any rate! Thanks for your kind words

Speedie74 aka Mr. Torquise

Mar 18, 2017

And some suspicious guy were also there, including the one who wore an incredible Paul Gerber watch... Thanks for the photos, Kristjan! Yours, Adam

KMII

Mar 18, 2017

Unfortunately I had to leave early but shall be better next time! Hope you also got home alright

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Omega Speedmaster 60th Anniversary Vienna GTG

About the Omega Ref. Seamaster300

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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