Omega’s “First Omega in Space” Speedmaster Returns With New Blue-Grey Dial

In the world of luxury timepieces, Omega’s Speedmaster collection has long held a prestigious place, being one of the most iconic watches linked to space exploration. Now, Omega has reintroduced a beloved model with fresh updates—the “First Omega in Space” (FOiS) Speedmaster, which now features a striking blue-grey dial. With subtle yet meaningful changes, this release blends modern engineering with vintage design, capturing the essence of Omega’s rich history.

A Look Back at the FOiS

The “First Omega in Space” model traces its roots to the original CK2998 Speedmaster, produced between 1959 and 1962. This particular model became iconic when NASA astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirra wore it during his Sigma 7 mission in 1962. Unlike today’s official astronaut watches, Schirra’s CK2998 was his personal timepiece, purchased three years before the Speedmaster became NASA’s approved chronograph for manned space missions. The watch, with its sleek Alpha hands and black bezel, is a precursor to the design features that later defined the Speedmaster.

The CK2998 was a simpler version of today’s Speedmasters, characterized by straight lugs, a symmetrical case, and a clean design. Despite its historical significance, the CK2998 design feels familiar to those who follow the evolution of the Speedmaster lineup.

In 2012, Omega released the first “First Omega in Space” model, commemorating Schirra’s CK2998 and allowing collectors to own a piece of this important space-exploration heritage. This year, Omega has made notable updates to this homage, keeping its vintage allure but incorporating the latest advancements in Omega’s horological technology.

Design and Technical Features

The new “First Omega in Space” (FOiS) has several design updates, including a CVD-coated blue-grey dial. This tone replicates certain CK2998 watches that were produced in the 1960s. While some of these blue-dialed CK2998s have surfaced on social media and forums, they remain elusive and highly sought after by collectors. The blue dial on the new FOiS, with its sunburst finish, is meant to evoke that same sense of vintage charm.

The updated dial also retains the classic stepped design that was reintroduced with the 2012 FOiS model, as well as the original Omega logo and printed markings from the CK2998. The hands and markers now feature a creamy, aged-inspired lume that gives the watch a vintage look, contrasting with the last FOiS model that had a more modern, factory-fresh aesthetic.

The case is made of stainless steel, measuring 39.7mm in diameter and 13.4mm thick, with a lug-to-lug length of 48mm and a lug width of 19mm. These proportions are similar to the original FOiS, maintaining a symmetrical design and straight lugs. However, Omega has made small tweaks to the case shape, giving it a more refined appearance compared to recent Speedmaster releases, like the 321 model.

The new FOiS features a sapphire crystal shaped to resemble the Hesalite crystals of older Speedmasters, and it has a period-correct Dot-Over-Ninety (DON) aluminum bezel insert. This bezel design element is a small but significant detail that appeals to collectors, as it reflects Omega’s commitment to historical accuracy in their tribute models.

Modern Omega Engineering

While the external design of the FOiS harks back to the past, the inside is all about modern advancements. The watch is powered by Omega’s Master Chronometer-certified Caliber 3861 movement. This movement is a modern evolution of Omega’s iconic manual-winding chronograph caliber and features the brand’s Co-Axial escapement, delivering enhanced precision, stability, and durability.

The Caliber 3861 also offers a power reserve of 50 hours and is resistant to magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss, making it one of the most advanced mechanical chronograph movements on the market. This combination of vintage design and cutting-edge technology ensures that the FOiS appeals to both long-time Omega collectors and newer enthusiasts.

The movement is housed behind a commemorative caseback, engraved with “The First Omega in Space” at the top and “October 3, 1962” at the bottom, referencing Schirra’s historic space mission.

Pricing and Availability

The reissued FOiS is priced at $7,900, positioning it between other models in Omega’s Speedmaster Professional lineup. It is slightly more expensive than the standard Hesalite Speedmaster but more affordable than the Sapphire Sandwich model. This price includes a steel flat-link bracelet with Omega’s easy-adjust system, offering both comfort and versatility. The FOiS is also available on a strap at a slightly lower price.

While this isn’t a limited edition, it’s expected that demand will be high, making the FOiS a difficult model to find for at least the next few months. Collectors and enthusiasts are likely to rush to get their hands on this reimagined classic, particularly given its blend of vintage appeal and modern functionality.

Omega’s Heritage in Space Exploration

Omega’s connection to space exploration has been a defining feature of the brand’s identity. The Speedmaster’s role in NASA’s space missions, particularly its use during the Apollo 11 moon landing, earned it the nickname “The Moonwatch.” However, Schirra’s CK2998 played a key role in Omega’s early journey into space, making it an essential part of the brand’s history.

The FOiS celebrates this heritage by paying homage to the first Omega watch worn in space, while still incorporating the modern advancements that have made Omega a leader in precision timekeeping. For collectors, owning a watch like the FOiS means not only wearing a piece of history but also a highly functional and reliable modern chronograph.

The Appeal of the FOiS to Collectors

For watch collectors, the FOiS holds a special allure. Its design strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern engineering, appealing to those who appreciate both the aesthetics of mid-20th-century timepieces and the technological advancements of today’s watches.

The use of “fauxtina” lume, or artificially aged luminous material, is particularly appealing to those who value a vintage look but want the reliability of modern materials. While some collectors may prefer perfectly aged originals, the FOiS offers a convenient alternative that still captures the essence of a vintage Speedmaster.

In addition to its historical significance, the FOiS is also an attractive option for collectors who may not have the means or opportunity to purchase an original CK2998. Vintage Speedmasters have become increasingly rare and expensive, making models like the FOiS an accessible way to own a piece of Omega’s space heritage.

Conclusion

The reintroduction of the “First Omega in Space” Speedmaster with its updated blue-grey dial is a testament to Omega’s ability to blend the past with the present. By incorporating subtle design changes, such as the CVD-coated dial and vintage-inspired lume, Omega has managed to capture the essence of the CK2998 while offering a modern, technologically advanced timepiece.

Collectors and Speedmaster enthusiasts will appreciate the historical nods, such as the DON bezel and commemorative caseback, while also benefiting from the reliability and precision of Omega’s Master Chronometer-certified Caliber 3861 movement. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Omega or a new buyer drawn to the allure of the Speedmaster’s space heritage, the FOiS is a compelling addition to Omega’s lineup.

With its combination of vintage design and modern engineering, the FOiS stands as a tribute to Omega’s enduring legacy in space exploration, offering both collectors and enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of that history.

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