VIDEO: Omega Speedmaster Professional
One Minute Watch with John Carter
Pre-Owned Omega Speedmaster Professional
Known as the Moonwatch, the Omega Speedmaster is widely associated with space travel. This “Pre-Moon” Speedmaster is a special example as it was the same reference worn by the Apollo 11 astronauts, making it the first watch ever to be worn on the Moon.
Omega released the Ref 105.012 in 1964 as a new generation chronograph that would become known as the Speedmaster Professional. It was the first Speedmaster to feature the asymmetrical case design and was also the first to list “Professional” on the dial. Omega used two different casemakers for this reference, Le Centrale Boites and Huguenin Frères, and there were distinct differences between cases.
A rare find, this vintage “Pre-Moon” Speedmaster Professional (Ref. 105.012-66) features the rare “Le Centrale Boites” or “CB” case. CB stands for Le Centrale Boites, which was one of two manufacturers who created Speedmaster cases for Omega. The CB cases are hallmarked with a “CB” on the caseback and they can be identified by a more flat lug structure on the upper side with a very thin facet on the inside. This thin facet is can disappear when being polished and these CB cases are becoming more difficult to find in an unpolished condition.
Known as the Moonwatch, the Omega Speedmaster is closely associated with space travel. This “Pre-Moon” Speedmaster is a special example as it was the same reference worn by the Apollo 11 astronauts, and the first watch ever to be worn on the Moon.
Omega released the Ref. 105.012 in 1964 as the Speedmaster Professional. It was the first Speedmaster to list “Professional” on the dial, and the first to feature the asymmetrical case design.
Omega used two different casemakers for the model, and there are distinct differences between each case design. This particular model showcases the more rare, “CB Case” characterized by a flat lug structure with a very thin facet on the inside. This facet is a detail that can easily disappear through polishing.
Dating to 1966, this watch features its original “dot over 90” bezel and the legendary caliber 321, making it an exceptional example of a rare and historic reference.
