The Omega Speedmaster, a name synonymous with space exploration and enduring horological excellence, boasts a rich and complex history. Pinpointing the *very* original Speedmaster and its calibre requires careful consideration of the evolution of the model, as the designation "Speedmaster" wasn't initially applied to a single, definitive watch. Understanding this evolution is key to answering the question of the original Speedmaster's calibre.
What Was The Original Omega Speedmaster?
The journey begins not with a single launch, but with a lineage of chronographs leading up to the iconic watch we recognize today. While the name "Speedmaster" was officially adopted in 1957, the watch that would eventually become known as the "original" Speedmaster – the one that went to space – didn't immediately emerge in its final form. The story is more nuanced than a simple answer might suggest.
The Speedmaster Broad Arrow, often cited as the original, is a misnomer in the strictest sense. While it features the broad arrow hands that became a signature design element, it wasn't the first watch to carry the Speedmaster name. The initial Speedmaster models were part of a broader collection of chronographs Omega produced in the mid-1950s. These early Speedmasters, predating the Broad Arrow, were experiments in design and functionality, paving the way for the legendary model that would accompany astronauts on their lunar missions. They didn't have the instantly recognizable design features that solidified the Speedmaster's identity later on.
Therefore, identifying the "original" requires defining what criteria we prioritize: the first watch to use the "Speedmaster" name, the first watch to achieve significant popularity, or the first watch to meet NASA's rigorous testing standards. Each perspective leads to a different answer.
Omega Speedmaster Models by Year:
Tracking the evolution of the Speedmaster through the years reveals the gradual refinement of its design and functionality. This chronological exploration is crucial to understanding the calibre variations and the eventual selection of the reference CK2998, often considered the true ancestor of the moonwatch.
* Pre-1957: Omega produced several chronographs that laid the groundwork for the Speedmaster. These models, while not officially labelled "Speedmaster," incorporated key chronograph features and design elements that would later define the iconic timepiece. Precise calibre information for these pre-Speedmaster chronographs requires detailed research into Omega's archives and individual watch references.
* 1957: The name "Speedmaster" is officially introduced. Early Speedmaster models, while bearing the name, differed significantly from the later, more recognizable versions. These early models often featured different case designs, dial layouts, and calibres. Pinpointing the exact calibre for each of these early models requires detailed examination of specific reference numbers.
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