THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: OMEGA
MODEL: 345.0808
YEAR: 1992
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 42mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND

The Omega Speedmaster is one of the world’s most iconic watches and needs no introduction. It is also one of the most intriguing models for watch collectors, as its design has subtly evolved almost every year since its inception in 1957.

The ref. 345.0808, nicknamed "Apollo XI," was the first generation of Speedmasters to feature a display case back. The present example dates to 1992 and belongs to the "unnumbered series," in which the case back no longer displays the limited edition number. The watch houses the reliable Caliber 861, now visible for the first time to be admired by its owners. It also retains the signature aesthetics of its predecessors, with an all-black dial, white baton hands, and tachymeter bezel.

Although not the rarest Speedy, the condition of this watch can rival any. The original tritium lume has aged to a gorgeous, even pumpkin patina. The case remains fantastically strong, and the bracelet is as tight as new. The movement has just been checked and is running superbly at +4 s/d, 282 amplitude, with a 0.2 ms beat error.

While good examples of earlier Speedmasters often command well over five figures, this piece represents excellent value as a neo-vintage classic.