Omega’s Newest 'Moonwatch': Apollo 8 Ventures into the Dark Side

 

Omega, known for its historic collaboration with NASA, continues its lunar legacy with the unveiling of the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8, priced at $14,300. This model, the second in Omega's Moonwatch lineup inspired by Apollo 8, follows the inaugural edition commemorating the mission's 50th anniversary in 2018.

The iconic Speedmaster chronograph, introduced in 1957, earned NASA's trust in 1965 after rigorous tests gauging precision, reliability, water and shock resistance, magnetism resistance, and tolerance to extreme temperatures and accelerations. Worn on all six lunar landings, including the monumental Apollo 11, the Speedmaster earned its "Moonwatch" moniker as Buzz Aldrin sported it during the first moonwalk in 1969.

The latest Apollo 8 model boasts a skeletonized dial crafted from black anodized aluminum, showcasing the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3869. This movement features a laser-ablated moon relief on the blackened main plate and bridges, with laser engraving enhancing the moon's textured surface.

Meeting NASA's exacting standards, the manual-winding Calibre 3869 achieves the Co-Axial Master Chronometer standard, ensuring top-tier precision, chronometric performance, and magnetic resistance up to 15,000 gauss. Reflecting the mission's dark side theme, the front of the movement depicts the lunar surface as seen from Earth, while the reverse captures the side only witnessed by astronauts.

A standout detail is the Grade 5 titanium small-seconds hand at 9 o'clock, intricately portraying NASA's Saturn 5 rocket, complete with minute USA lettering. The 44.25mm case, case back, and bezel are constructed from three pieces of black ceramic, with the case back featuring engravings, including the poignant words "We’ll see you on the other side," spoken by Lovell just before Apollo 8 lost radio contact with ground control for 45 minutes.

Omega's homage to the historic Apollo 8 mission extends beyond horological excellence to capture the essence of that groundbreaking journey. The Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 encapsulates not just precision timekeeping but a narrative etched in space exploration history. As Omega continues its tradition of uniting heritage with innovation, this timepiece stands as a testament to the enduring bond between the brand and NASA's pioneering spirit.

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