Baselworld 2012 witnessed a significant event in horological history: the unveiling of Omega's meticulously recreated Speedmaster worn by astronaut Wally Schirra during the Mercury Atlas 8 mission. While not technically a "Moonwatch" in the commonly understood sense – that title firmly belongs to the Speedmaster Professional that accompanied astronauts to the lunar surface – this reissue, often referred to as the "First Omega in Space," held immense historical significance and captivated collectors and space enthusiasts alike. Its appearance in Canada, like elsewhere, sparked renewed interest in Omega's enduring legacy in space exploration.
This article delves deep into the story of the "First Omega in Space," exploring its historical context within the broader narrative of Omega watches in space, examining the watch itself, its subsequent discontinuation, and its lasting impact on the Omega Speedmaster and the broader collector's market.
The First Omega in Space: A Mercury Legacy
Before the iconic Moonwatch cemented Omega's place in lunar history, another Speedmaster quietly etched its name into the annals of space exploration. Wally Schirra, a veteran astronaut of the Mercury program, chose to wear his personal Omega Speedmaster CK 2998 during the Mercury Atlas 8 mission in 1962. This wasn't a NASA-issued timepiece; it was a watch Schirra trusted, a personal choice that speaks volumes about the watch's inherent reliability and robustness. This seemingly simple act of personal preference transformed the CK 2998 into the first Omega Speedmaster to be worn in space, predating even the official NASA qualification of the Speedmaster Professional.
The CK 2998, unlike the later Speedmaster Professional, featured a broader, more elegant case, a different dial layout, and a distinct, less rugged aesthetic. It represented the early evolution of the Speedmaster line, a precursor to the legendary Moonwatch. Yet, its performance in the harsh environment of space during the Mercury Atlas 8 mission proved its mettle, laying the groundwork for Omega's future success in the space race. Schirra's preference, documented and verified, solidified the Speedmaster's reputation for reliability even before its official adoption by NASA.
First Omega in Space Mission: Mercury Atlas 8 and Beyond
The Mercury Atlas 8 mission, during which Schirra wore his CK 2998, was a pivotal moment in the early days of the American space program. This six-orbit mission, lasting over nine hours, pushed the boundaries of human spaceflight, testing the limits of both the spacecraft and the human body. The success of the mission, in part, contributed to the growing confidence in the technology and equipment involved, including Schirra's trusty Omega Speedmaster.
While the CK 2998's journey on Mercury Atlas 8 was a significant event, it's crucial to understand that this was only the beginning of Omega's spacefaring legacy. The subsequent Gemini and Apollo missions further solidified the Speedmaster's reputation, leading to its iconic status as the "Moonwatch." However, the CK 2998's pioneering role should not be overlooked. It was the first Omega in space, a crucial stepping stone on the path to the Moon. This historical context is what made the 2012 reissue so significant. It wasn't just a watch; it was a tangible link to a pivotal moment in space exploration history, a testament to Omega's early involvement and the enduring quality of their timepieces.
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