About this lot

Description

c.1966, model 105.003 - 65, the signed black dial with luminous baton markers, hands and centre chronograph counter, with three subsidiary registers and outer tachymetre bezel, the signed 17 jewel mechanical manual wind chronograph movement calibre 321 number 24004697, with pushers above and below the signed crown, the stainless steel case with screw down back, verso engraved with Speedmaster logo, the interior stamped 'ST 105 003-65', to a stainless steel signed steelinox bracelet No. 13, numbered 7912, with fold over clasp and expanding sections, presented in the original red and gold tooled box, with the Omega Guarantee Booklet and Card dated 4/12/66, and the original Warranty Certificate from retailer J.W. Benson, of the same date

Footnote: Other notes: In June 1965, Gemini IV became the second crewed spaceflight to lift off as part of NASA's Project Gemini. Astronauts James McDivitt and Ed White circled the Earth 66 times in four days, making it the first US flight to approach the five-day flight of the Soviet Vostok 5. The highlight of the mission was the first space walk by an American, during which White floated free outside the spacecraft, whilst tethered to it, for approximately 20 minutes. Both of these accomplishments helped the United States overcome the Soviet Union's early lead in the space race. On this mission, White wore an Omega Speedmaster ref 105.003 strapped to the outside of the left-side sleeve of his G4C space suit. In order to accommodate the space suit, the watch was attached via a long nylon strap secured with velcro. When worn on the wrist, the strap could be wound around several times to shorten its length. This was the first time an Omega Speedmaster had been exposed to the vacuum of space. This model was later given the nickname the 'Ed White' in recognition of his historic space walk, (officially described as an EVA or extra vehicular activity), on June 3. The 105.003 was produced for just a short period of time (1963-1969) with the majority made in 1965, before the 145.012 model was introduced and chosen by NASA to accompany the Apollo 11 mission to put the first man on the moon. The 105.003 and prior models are informally known as 'Pre Moon' Speedmasters, since their manufacture predates the moon landings. The Speedmaster remains one of several watches qualified by NASA for spaceflight and is still the only one so qualified for EVA.

Back to lot listings