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Few watches carry a story like the Omega Speedmaster. Introduced in 1957 as a motorsport chronograph, it became something far greater: the first watch worn on the Moon. This is the independent story of how a tool watch became a legend — and why it still matters today.
From the racetrack to NASA
The Speedmaster began life as a sports chronograph, but its rugged, legible design caught NASA’s attention in the 1960s. After a punishing series of tests, it was the only watch to survive — and was qualified for all manned space missions.
The watch on the Moon
When Apollo 11 landed in 1969, an Omega Speedmaster was on the wrist of the astronauts, making it the first watch worn on the lunar surface. That single fact transformed the Speedmaster into the “Moonwatch” and cemented its place in history.
A hand-wound icon
True to its heritage, the classic Speedmaster Professional remains a manual-winding chronograph. Its symmetrical case, tachymeter bezel and three-register dial have barely changed in decades — a rare example of a design that got it right the first time.
Why collectors love it
The Speedmaster offers something rare: genuine history, timeless design and relative accessibility among luxury icons. For many, it’s a grail watch that doesn’t require a fortune. If you’re weighing it up, our Speedmaster vs Seamaster comparison can help you decide.
The bottom line
The Omega Speedmaster is more than a chronograph — it’s a piece of human history you can wear. As an independent publication with no affiliation to Omega SA, we simply call it as we see it: this is one of the most significant watches ever made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Omega Speedmaster called the Moonwatch?
NASA qualified the Speedmaster for manned spaceflight and it was worn on the Apollo missions, becoming the first watch worn on the Moon in 1969 — earning the “Moonwatch” nickname.
Is the Speedmaster automatic or manual?
The classic Speedmaster Professional “Moonwatch” is a manual-winding chronograph, in keeping with its space-program heritage. Omega also offers automatic Speedmaster variants.
Does the Speedmaster still use a Hesalite crystal?
The traditional Moonwatch is offered with a Hesalite (acrylic) crystal for heritage authenticity, with sapphire-crystal versions also available.
Senior Watch Writer
James Whitfield
James has spent over a decade covering Swiss horology, vintage markets and modern releases. He believes the best watch is the one you actually wear.
