Omega’s “First Omega in Space” CK 2998, was released in 1959 as the second generation of the Speedmaster family. The watch now makes a comeback with three new updates, paying tribute to the timeless aesthetics of the original model and the brand’s pioneering spirit.
The sleek alpha hands, symmetrical case, and dark bezel of the original CK 2998, were a departure from the first Speedmaster model released in 1957. These distinctive elements caught the eye of NASA astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirra, who wore his CK 2998 during the historic Sigma 7 mission of the Mercury Program on October 3, 1962. This pivotal 9-hour, 13-minute, and 11-second flight saw Schirra orbit Earth six times, establishing the Speedmaster as an essential piece of space kit. This moment marked the brand’s official entry into the realm of space exploration and earned the CK 2998 its legendary nickname, ‘The First Omega in Space.’
The 2024 edition continues to captivate Speedmaster enthusiasts by faithfully reflecting the style of its 1959 predecessor. The watch features a polished and brushed stainless steel case, measuring 39.70mm and water-resistant to 50 metres, along with a black aluminium tachymeter bezel that includes the iconic ‘dot over 90’— a hallmark of early Speedmaster models.
A grey-blue sun-brushed dial, treated with CVD coating to replicate the hue of certain CK 2998 models from the 1960s, is protected by a hesalite-like sapphire crystal. Vintage Super-Luminova of a peach-like hue fills the alpha hands for hours and minutes, while the central second hand is finished in white lacquer, complementing the hour markers and the minute and hour chronograph hands in the slightly recessed and grooved counters. The dial is also graced with a classic Omega logo and lettering.
The case back continues the tribute to history with engravings of ‘Speedmaster,’ ‘The first Omega in Space,’ and the significant date of October 3, 1962, alongside a seahorse medallion.
Powered by a manual-winding chronograph movement with Co-Axial escapement, the Speedmaster First Omega in Space is certified as a Master Chronometer. Approved by METAS, it resists magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss, thanks to a free-sprung balance and silicon balance spring.
Omega offers three iterations, available with either a black or brown leather strap. Each watch comes presented in a special box, complete with a ‘Legendary Moonwatch’ brochure.
This article first appeared in WatchTime.com
Images: Courtesy brand
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