A Watch Tested for Space — and Chosen by NASA

The OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch is not simply associated with space exploration—it was rigorously tested and officially flight-qualified by NASA in 1965 for all manned space missions. While other watches failed under extreme heat, shock, vibration, and vacuum conditions, the Speedmaster survived it all. This testing ultimately led to its historic role as the first watch worn on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. 

The Moonwatch actually made it to space in 1962 on the wrist of Wally Schirra who wore his own Speedmaster on the Mercury mission. 

The Moonwatch Helped Save Apollo 13

One of the most compelling Speedmaster facts isn’t about walking on the Moon—but saving astronauts’ lives. During the Apollo 13 crisis, when onboard systems failed, astronauts relied on the Speedmaster’s chronograph to precisely time engine burns needed for re-entry. No digital backup. No margin for error. The Speedmaster’s reliability under pressure earned OMEGA the Silver Snoopy Award, one of NASA’s highest honors.

Manual-Wind by Design (and by Necessity)

Unlike most modern luxury watches, the Speedmaster Moonwatch remains manual-winding, not automatic—and this is intentional. NASA required a movement that could operate reliably in zero gravity, where automatic rotors may not function efficiently. Today’s Moonwatch uses the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861, blending historic architecture with cutting-edge anti-magnetic technology.

Hesalite vs. Sapphire: A Functional Choice

Moonwatch collectors often debate Hesalite crystal vs. sapphire crystal, but the original choice was purely functional. Hesalite (an advanced acrylic) was selected because it wouldn’t shatter into dangerous fragments in space. While modern Moonwatches are available in both configurations, purists favor Hesalite for its warm vintage glow and true lunar authenticity.

The Design Has Barely Changed — On Purpose

The Speedmaster’s instantly recognizable black dial, tachymeter bezel, and tri-compax layout remain largely unchanged since the 1960s. This consistency of a classic luxury watch design is rare in modern watchmaking and contributes significantly to the Moonwatch’s collectibility and long-term value. It’s not about chasing trends—it’s about preserving this iconic chronograph watch and one of the most successful tool watch designs ever created.

OMEGA has, however, released new iterations of the Moonwatch including the renditions of the Dark Side of the Moon, Grey Side of the Moon, Moonwatch in White, and "FOIS" collection or the First OMEGA in Space. 

Still One of the Best Values in Luxury Watches

Despite its unmatched historical pedigree, the Speedmaster Moonwatch remains one of the most attainable icons in luxury watchmaking. Compared to many modern sports watches with similar cultural significance, the Moonwatch delivers exceptional value, heritage, and mechanical credibility—making it a cornerstone piece for both new collectors and seasoned enthusiasts.

Why the Speedmaster Moonwatch Endures

More than 60 years after its debut, the OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch continues to represent exploration, precision, and human achievement. It’s not just a watch that went to the Moon—it’s a watch that helped shape history, survived the impossible, and remains just as relevant on Earth today.

Explore our curated selection of OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch models or visit us in store to experience this legendary chronograph firsthand.