About This Watch:

Released in 1989, Omega celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Apollo XI mission with the Ref 145.0022.101. This Omega Speedmaster 20th Anniversary Apollo XI Ref 145.0022.101 is number 308 of 2000 produced for the US Market. The 145.0022.101 features a Plexiglas crystal and tritium lume.

The History: The Speedmaster was introduced in 1957 as a sport and racing chronograph, complementing Omega’s position as the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games. Its iconic place in history stems from its utilization by NASA for the Gemini Titan III crews and eventually by the astronauts on the Apollo 11 mission, which made it the first watch to be worn on the moon.

The Watch: The Omega Speedmaster 20th Anniversary Apollo XI features a 42mm stainless steel case with a domed Plexiglas crystal. Powered by a manual-wind Calibre 861 movement, the 145.022.101 was a numbered run for the initial 2000 pieces released in the US, which also came with the reference 1450 bracelet and 808 end links. The engraved case has the Omega Speedmaster Seahorse logo and the “Flight Qualified by NASA” markings.

The Details: The numbered engraving 308/2000 is visible on the side of the case, which shows some wear consistent with the age of this timepiece, as visible in the photographs. The lume has developed a creamy patina on the hour markers and hands. This watch includes the original owner's manual and the reference 1450 stainless steel Omega bracelet with 808 end links.