The Omega Speedmaster: From Le Mans to the Moon Category: Brand Heritage Published: 2025-04-10 The Omega Speedmaster Professional is one of the most storied objects in horological history. It was on Neil Armstrong's wrist when Apollo 11 landed on the Moon. Origins: A Racing Chronograph (1957)The Speedmaster was introduced in 1957 with reference CK2915 — a broad-arrow-hand chronograph designed for motorsport timing. The NASA Selection (1965)In 1964, NASA began testing wristwatches for the Mercury program. The Speedmaster was the only watch to pass every test. In 1965, NASA officially certified it as flight equipment. Apollo 13 and the 'Watches Saved the Mission' MomentIn April 1970, Apollo 13 suffered a catastrophic oxygen tank failure. Jack Swigert used his Speedmaster to time a critical 14-second engine burn that saved the crew. The Moonwatch TodayThe Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch remains in production with the legendary calibre 3861 — a modern evolution of the original 321. The Speedmaster is proof that a watch can transcend horology and become a piece of human history. Related Reading Patek Philippe: The Standard of Watchmaking Excellence Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: The Watch That Redefined Luxury IWC Pilot's Watches: Precision at Altitude Vacheron Constantin: 270 Years of Uninterrupted Excellence All WatchExpress Insights Luxury Watch Brand Directory