In the year of 1969, everyone knows, Neil Amstrong became the first man to walk on the moon, but without his watch. Soon after Neil, Buzz Aldrin, the Lunar Module pilot on Apollo 11, was the second person to set foot on the moon.
Wearing on Buzz's wrist outside his space suit, was none other than than Omega Speedmaster Professional, the first (and only??) watch worn on the moon. Thus, the nickname of moonwatch came about.
Omega's purpose of creating the Speedmaster in year 1957 was for a "new type of chronograph designed for research, industry and sports". Never in their mind would they think that NASA would be using the watch for the space missions, and not even modify it. Speedmaster went through some toughest and endurance test by NASA and passed with flying colours. Up until today, it is the only wrist watch that certified by NASA for all EVA (Extra Vehicular Activity).
Exactly 37 years ago today, December 14, Apollo 17 left the moon surface and ended the moon venture for the 20th century. Eugence Cernan, became the last man on the moon.
Put the moon missions and NASA's connection aside. I like its simplicity, timeless design, understated, reliable and tested calibre. The watch is relatively unchanged since more than 50 years ago. Someone has mentioned that it is a 911 of Porsche, a classic.
Guys, come and show your moon watch here. takashi78, blancpain4470, I know you got one 8)
Title: Re: 40 Years Ago, The Moon Had Guests
Post by: takashi78 on December 13, 2009, 09:30:58 PM
Here is mine on CF strap. Now back to the bracelet but no pics yet. Would love to add another speedy with display back to my collection someday. (http://i617.photobucket.com/albums/tt252/leongps78/28082009463.jpg)
Title: Re: 40 Years Ago, The Moon Had Guests
Post by: ck77 on December 13, 2009, 09:40:55 PM
takashi78, nice one :thumbsup:
Yeah, a 3573 or the discontinued 3572 would be nice to show off the beautiful movement.
Title: Re: 40 Years Ago, The Moon Had Guests
Post by: afd on December 19, 2009, 01:27:17 PM
Yup ck77
Moon watch is a great watch Here is mine (sorry for the poor photography)
Title: Re: 40 Years Ago, The Moon Had Guests
Post by: danny on December 19, 2009, 06:55:40 PM