In 1968, a historic moment unfolded as Apollo 8 embarked on the first-ever human orbit around the Moon. The astronauts on this groundbreaking mission were each equipped with an OMEGA Speedmaster, a vital tool throughout NASA’s lunar endeavors. This year, OMEGA commemorates this remarkable story with the unveiling of the new Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon. Crafted using cutting-edge technology, a diverse array of materials, and expert craftsmanship, this timepiece pays tribute to the Apollo 8 mission.
OMEGA initially introduced the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 in 2018, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the mission. Now, the brand revisits its watchmaking roots, enhancing the original design with meticulous detailing and refinement.
The watch’s Calibre 3869 showcases a laser-ablated Moon relief on the blackened main plate and bridges, creating a distinctive aesthetic. Similar to the Moon itself, the movement reveals two perspectives – the dial-side mirrors our view of the lunar surface from Earth, while the back unveils the dark side seen only by astronauts. Laser engraving and contrasting surfaces enhance the Moon’s definition, complemented by clearly pronounced features alongside light grey coated wheels and a dark grey gold coated balance wheel.
Moreover, the manual-winding Calibre 3869 attains the Co-Axial Master Chronometer standard, signifying the highest level of precision, chronometric performance, and magnetic resistance in the Swiss watch industry.
The Moon-inspired movement is visible through the watch’s skeletonized dial, crafted from black anodized aluminum. The 44.25 mm case, polished bezel, and caseback are constructed from separate pieces of black ceramic, with the tachymeter scale filled with bright white “Grand Feu” enamel.
Adding a pop of color, the central chronograph seconds hand and perforated strap feature a varnished yellow hue. A patent-pending small-seconds hand at 9 o’clock, resembling NASA’s Saturn V rocket, is made from Grade 5 Titanium and showcases a 3D structure achieved through laser turning, white varnish, ablation, and laser blackening.
The caseback bears significant engravings, including “WE’LL SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE” – the last words spoken to ground control by Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell before Apollo 8 disappeared to the far side of the Moon, entering radio silence for the first time.
Wearing this watch symbolizes a genuine connection with our lunar neighbor and OMEGA’s legacy in space exploration. As the world looks ahead to the future, the Apollo 8 mission serves as a reminder of the remarkable achievements possible through collective human effort.
For more information, please visit OmegaWatches.com.