The Omega Speedmaster Professional, affectionately known as the "Moonwatch," holds a unique place in horological history. Its iconic status is cemented not only by its robust design and impressive performance but also by its pivotal role in human space exploration. Specifically, the Omega Speedmaster Professional ref. 311.30.42.30.99.002, often referred to as the "Last Man on the Moon" edition, commands significant attention and value in the collector's market. Understanding the price of this coveted timepiece requires delving into its history, variations, and the current market dynamics.
The Legacy: A Watch on the Moon and Beyond
The story of the Speedmaster and its association with NASA is legendary. Selected after rigorous testing in the 1960s, it became the official watch of the Apollo missions. Its resilience, accuracy, and readability under extreme conditions proved invaluable. The Speedmaster accompanied astronauts on every Apollo mission, including the final lunar landing of Apollo 17 in 1972. Gene Cernan, the last man to walk on the moon, wore a Speedmaster Professional, solidifying the watch's place in history and giving rise to the "Last Man on the Moon" moniker. This isn't just a watch; it's a symbol of human achievement and a testament to Omega's engineering prowess.
While the term "Last Man on the Moon" isn't an official designation from Omega, it organically emerged, connecting the specific Speedmaster models worn during the Apollo 17 mission with the historical significance of the event. This association significantly impacts the watch's desirability and, consequently, its price.
Omega Ref. 311.30.42.30.99.002: Specifications and Variations
The reference number 311.30.42.30.99.002 identifies a particular variation of the Speedmaster Professional. This model typically features:
* 42mm stainless steel case: A slightly larger case size compared to some earlier Speedmaster models, offering improved wearability for many.
* Helium escape valve: A crucial feature for professional-grade dive watches, ensuring pressure equalization during deep dives (though not strictly necessary for lunar missions).
* Sapphire crystal: A scratch-resistant crystal protecting the watch face.
* Caliber 1861 movement: A hand-wound, legendary movement known for its reliability and robustness. This is a key element contributing to the watch's appeal amongst collectors valuing authenticity and mechanical heritage. It's a direct descendant of the movements used in the original Moonwatches that went to space.
* Black dial: The classic Speedmaster black dial with its iconic subdials, tachymeter bezel, and luminous hands and markers.
While the ref. 311.30.42.30.99.002 is often associated with the "Last Man on the Moon" narrative, it's crucial to understand that it’s not a limited edition produced specifically to commemorate the event. Omega has produced numerous Speedmaster Professional models over the years, many sharing similar aesthetics. The "Last Man on the Moon" association is retrospective, adding to the value and desirability of specific examples. Collectors often seek watches with provenance, ideally those with documented history or links to the Apollo 17 mission, driving prices even higher.
Omega Moonwatch Original vs. Modern Interpretations
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