Omega Speedmaster Moonphase
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Why We Love it
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Why We Love it
–Whatever your opinion on special or limited editions, when it comes to the Speedmaster, Omega has released some that have become almost as desirable as its more traditional iterations. Despite the fact that the Speedmaster's design has become, for lack of a better word, iconic, it is by no means rigid, and adapts well to a variety of configurations and complications. Nothing illustrates this adaptability better than the models that celebrate the watch's long and fruitful association with NASA--or to commemorate the Speedy itself.
Omega started releasing special editions of the Speedmaster as early as 1969. An example in solid 18k gold was released the year of the moon landing, and is the first limited edition of Speedmaster. Its bold gold dial and red tachymeter bezel are a playful take on the Speedy's more traditional color scheme, and examples of this limited edition are highly coveted by collectors.
Two decades later, in 1985, Omega released a limited edition that has gained near mythical proportions--the Speedmaster Professional Moonphase.
To be sure, there's undoubtedly a touch of eccentricity in a watch with a moonphase indicator. There's a particular use for it that doesn't see much application in today's world, unless you're a farmer or a fisherman. But the addition of a moonphase to the Speedmaster just makes sense, given the fact that it actually went to the moon.
Additionally, this marked the first time that the Speedmaster would ever include that complication.
While that fact alone makes it significant, it's also rare--exceedingly so. Though production numbers of the Reference 345.0809 are inexact, the late (and great) Chuck Maddox put it to about 1300 pieces in stainless steel. For a manufacture that releases "limited editions" that number in the thousands, the Speedmaster Moonphase's relatively modest run makes it all the more desirable.
This particular example is unusual in that it bears a case number of 145.0809--the designation that Omega used to signify a watch sold on a strap. Yet somewhere along the way, a previous owner sourced and installed a Reference 1447/809 bracelet, which is in fact correct for the Reference 345.0809. The Reference 1447 bracelet is itself rare as well, used for only a few years in the early 1980s before being replaced by the Reference 1450.
The Reference 1447 bracelet is distinguished by its sold end links and a quick-release clasp, which allows for easy removal and adjustment.
Internally, the watch is powered by the Calibre .866 movement, a modified Calibre .861 which is the first Speedmaster calibre to include a moonphase.
As one can imagine, a watch that's so few in numbers comes up rarely on the market--for our part, this is the first one we've ever come across.
Complete with box, it is a worthy addition to the stable of Omega Speedmaster models, a time capsule that cements the Speedmaster in the pantheon of horological greats.
A:S Guarantee
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A:S Guarantee
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Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.
Condition
Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.
Warranty
We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.
International Buyers
Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.
Shipping & Returns
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Shipping & Returns
+All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.
Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.
We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.
Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.
We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.
Omega Speedmaster Moonphase
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