Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo 8 History
Vintage

Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo 8 History

By ImranLondon · Nov 23, 2018 · 8 replies
ImranLondon
WPS member · Omega forum
8 replies1770 views20 photos
f 𝕏 in πŸ’¬ βœ‰ πŸ”—

Miranda's 'Project Apollo' post meticulously chronicles the historic Apollo 8 mission, providing a detailed account of its significance in space exploration. This article serves as a valuable resource for understanding the context behind Omega's iconic Speedmaster Professional and its deep connection to NASA's lunar endeavors.





On 21st December 1968, the Apollo 8 mission began with a successful take off at 12.51 UTC. On board were Frank Borman, James Lovell and William β€œBill” Anders. 




The mission lasted 6 days, and was the first a manned space craft had left low Earth orbit.





The Apollo 8 CM was launched into space on the Saturn V rocket. This was the first time the Saturn V rocket launched a manned crew into space.






The mission took the astronauts to the moon, and for the first time witnessed the far side of the moon. 








One of the highlights of the mission was seeing the Earth rise.



The mission was completed with a welcome return back to earth on the 27th December 1968.




All the pilots wore the cal 321Speedmaster professional.

James Lovell wore the ref 105.012- CB case Speedmaster professional watch. The watch was S/N 060.











Frank Borman also wore a reference 105.012-CB, identifiable by the facets on the lugs- a unique feature of the CB case. It was NASA S/N 063










Bill Anders watch, S/N 044 was likely a 105.012. I have been unable to get much information on this piece. I believe it is in the US Naval Academy in Annapolis. So if you are there, maybe you can grab some pictures!

In summary:

James Lovell: 105.012-CB (National Air and Space museum verified)

Frank Borman: 105.12-CB (National Air and Space museum verified)

Bill Anders 105.012 – derivative?? UNVERIFIED

 

Picture credits to National Air and Space museum, Watchuseek Omega forum, NASA






Frank Borman SN 63


About the Omega Speedmaster Ref. CK2998

The Omega CK2998 is a chronograph model recognized for its robust design and functional aesthetic. It belongs to a lineage of chronographs that established a distinct visual identity for the brand, characterized by a clear and legible dial layout. This reference is notable for its early adoption of a tachymeter scale on the bezel, a feature that would become a hallmark of many subsequent sports chronographs.

This reference features a 39 mm stainless steel case, housing the manual-winding Caliber 321. This movement provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The watch is fitted with a Hesalite crystal and offers a water resistance of 60 meters. The fixed tachymeter bezel is a key design element, framing a black dial.

The CK2998 holds interest for collectors seeking early examples of Omega's chronograph development. Its design elements, including the case proportions and dial configuration, represent a significant period in the brand's history. The presence of the Caliber 321 further enhances its appeal among enthusiasts of vintage chronograph movements.

Specifications

Caliber
321
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
39 mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
60m
Crystal
Hesalite

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
JL
JLCman
Nov 23, 2018

...One can really β€žfeelβ€œ the history with your storytelling and these fabulous photos. Chapeau!

RE
renerod
Nov 29, 2018

Thank you very much for this valuable information for speedmaster lovers. I would love to see more pictures of you glorious CB case speedy! Best. RenΓ©

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