In 1968, OMEGA became an integral part of history as the Speedmaster accompanied the Apollo 8 astronauts on their groundbreaking mission to orbit the Moon. Now, in a tribute to this momentous event, OMEGA introduces the new Dark Side of the Moon Speedmaster, combining state-of-the-art technology with expert craftsmanship.
OMEGA initially celebrated the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 with the release of the first Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 timepiece in 2018. This year, they revisit this historical milestone, elevating the design with enhanced detailing and refinement. The result is a watch that pays homage to the lunar legacy with a unique aesthetic and cutting-edge features.
At the heart of the watch is the Calibre 3869, featuring a laser-ablated Moon relief on the blackened main plate and bridges. Just like the Moon itself, this movement presents two distinct sides. The dial-side mirrors our terrestrial view of the lunar surface, while the back unveils the mysterious dark side seen only by astronauts. Laser engraving and contrasting surfaces enhance the Moon’s definition, complemented by light grey coated wheels and a dark grey gold-coated balance wheel.
Not only does the manual-winding Calibre 3869 boast a stunning lunar-inspired movement, but it also achieves the Co-Axial Master Chronometer standard, ensuring the highest level of precision, chronometric performance, and magnetic resistance in the Swiss watch industry.
The skeletonized dial, crafted from black anodized aluminium, allows a captivating view of the Moon-decorated movement. The 44.25 mm case, polished bezel, and caseback are meticulously constructed from separate pieces of black ceramic, with the tachymeter scale filled with bright white “Grand Feu” enamel.
Adding a vibrant touch, the central chronograph seconds hand and perforated strap both feature a varnished yellow color theme. The patent-pending small-seconds hand at 9 o’clock is a nod to NASA’s iconic Saturn V rocket, crafted from Grade 5 Titanium with a 3D structure obtained through laser turning and colored with white varnish, ablation, and laser blackening.
The caseback tells a poignant story, with engravings that include the final words spoken by Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell before Apollo 8 disappeared to the far side of the Moon: “WE’LL SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE.” This detail adds a personal connection to the historic mission and the bravery of the astronauts involved.
Wearing the Dark Side of the Moon Speedmaster is more than donning a timepiece; it’s making a genuine connection with the Moon and embracing OMEGA‘s deep-rooted ties to space exploration. As the world looks toward the future, the Apollo 8 tribute serves as a reminder of humanity’s shared power and its ability to achieve remarkable feats.
