Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo XI BA 145.022

Today, our friend Toda from the Philippines emailed us these awesome pics of his Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo XI BA 145.022. We wrote on this watch in our Handwound Chronicles [work in progress];

The Mark II was not the only interesting new model launched in 1969. The Speedmaster BA145.022, introduced in the same year, marked another first: it was the very first Speedmaster Professional to be available in 18 karat yellow gold. Some might also consider it the first Speedmaster to be made as a limited edition, as the first 28 examples were individually numbered and bore a inscription that differed from the retail version: to mark man’s conquest of space with time, through time, on time. In most, if not all cases said inscription was combined with a personal message to the recipient – all of them being VIPs. The total production number, including the first 28, is said to be no higher than 1.042 examples. The inscription on the ‘regular’ models read the first watch worn on the moon in the center, surrounded by the circular omega speedmaster – apollo XI 1969 -.

On all models, the dial was made of solid gold – as indicated by the OM SWISS MADE OM signature at 6 o’clock. Both the applied indices as well as the hands where painted black for maximum contrast. Please note that the bezel inlay was burgundy – another first: a Speedmaster with a bezel in a different color. The movement, caliber 861L, was a deluxe version of caliber 861 – much like the later 863. A stainless steel version of this model was also available, but for this page we’ll stick to the highlights and firsts.

Toda indicated that he received this watch as a gift from his father – we couldn’t think of a nicer gift! A true piece of history, an icon and a BEAUTY – in capitals indeed.

Enjoy the pics and thanks for sharing Toda!