Beyond the Moon – The Omega Speedmaster and Its Living Legend
Why was the Speedmaster the only watch to reach the moon?
More than half a century later, its name still captures the imagination of men around the world.
Known as the “Moonwatch,” this timepiece carries a story far greater than its specifications.
Let’s explore the essence behind its legend.
The Origins of History
In 1957, the Speedmaster was born as a precision instrument for professional racers.
Its accuracy and resilience soon caught the attention of NASA.
After surviving every extreme test, it was chosen as the official equipment for astronauts.
When Apollo 11 landed on the moon in 1969, this watch was strapped to the wrists of its crew.
The Speedmaster became forever known as “the only watch that went to the moon.”
But the legend did not end there.
A year later, during Apollo 13, an oxygen tank exploded, leaving the spacecraft without power or communication.
Relying on their Speedmasters, the astronauts timed a crucial 14-second engine burn to correct their course—
a calculation that brought them safely back to Earth.
The Speedmaster is not only “the watch that walked on the moon,”
but also “the watch that saved lives.”
Brand Strategy and Rarity
The only wristwatch ever to reach the moon—
that distinction belongs solely to the Omega Speedmaster.
Omega has refined this legacy into the very core of its brand identity, elevating the Speedmaster into an enduring icon.
Each anniversary and limited edition sends waves through the market, solidifying its place as a collector’s treasure.
More than glossy advertising, it is genuine achievement that defines this brand.
The Speedmaster stands as a rare union of rarity and timeless universality.
Engineering and Detail
From the original Caliber 321 to its successor, the 861, and now the modern 3861—
each generation has been defined by an unwavering pursuit of precision and reliability.
The latest Caliber 3861, certified as a Master Chronometer, achieves remarkable resistance to magnetism and shock.
While maintaining NASA’s official certification, it seamlessly integrates modern technology into a movement of exceptional craftsmanship.
The stainless-steel case, black dial, and tachymeter bezel embody pure functional beauty.
Devoid of excess, its quiet power and precision design make the Speedmaster the natural choice for those who know authenticity.
The Pre-Owned Market and Resale Trends
The current Professional model (Cal.3861) typically trades in the ¥600,000 range, with well-preserved examples and full accessories commanding near-retail prices.
Beyond its mechanical improvements, the enduring story of NASA certification continues to reinforce its resale strength.
Meanwhile, vintage models equipped with the Caliber 321 from the 1960s and 70s are increasingly rare.
Pieces retaining original components often exceed ¥1,000,000, while tritium dials and “Pre-Moon” references can reach several million yen.
As global demand for vintage timepieces grows, their rarity and market value continue to climb steadily.
One key to this sustained appeal lies in the design’s consistency.
The Speedmaster’s form has remained virtually unchanged for over six decades—a timeless design perfected at birth.
With Omega’s disciplined brand strategy and proven legacy, the Speedmaster’s market value shows no sign of wavering.
In Summary — The Speedmaster: A Timepiece That Captures the Spirit Beyond the Moon
The Speedmaster is far more than a chronograph.
It carries the memory of the moon landing, the courage of lives saved, and the legacy of human innovation.
Even now, it continues to mark time faithfully on the wrists of men who pursue authenticity.
At ALAMODE, we offer a carefully curated selection—from the latest Moonwatch models to historical vintage pieces.
Every watch is authenticated and maintained with precision, ensuring that your encounter with a true original is one of trust and value.
Here lies a watch with genuine weight—both in history and in presence.
Discover your own Moonwatch, timeless and legendary, in the ALAMODE online boutique.
▶︎ View available Omega Speedmaster models