Omega takes to space with a multi-function wonder
OMEGA is famous for its classic Speedmaster Professional chronograph which is known as the Moon Watch for having been picked by NASA in the 1960s to be worn by astronauts, and for having been worn on the moon by Buzz Aldrin.
NASA’s space programme may be on the back foot at the moment, but Omega is in the mood for space travel nonetheless. Its First Omega in Space Speedmaster (£3,400) is a limited edition celebrating the 50th anniversary of the first Speedy to be worn in space, when astronaut Wally Schirra orbited the Earth for the first time.
Another retro version commemorates the final NASA moon mission, Apollo 17, which took place in 1972. Consequently 1,972 versions are being made, and a smattering of these will be in the UK, complete with a hand-embossed caseback based on the Mission Patch worn by the astronauts.
These may look to the past, but the Spacemaster Z33 (pictured left, £3,400) is rather more futuristic – even though its case shape is resolutely 1970s in style. There’s very little this watch doesn’t do. Designed with pilots in mind, it has self-programmable professional pilot functions to lug flights, as well as a perpetual calendar, alarm, alternative time zone, chronograph, countdown timer, all operated on a rather stylish digital display. It’s not often I’d get excited by an electronic watch, but this one is special.
www.omegawatches.com