Omega - The Geneva Watch Auction: SIX Geneva Friday, November 10, 2017 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Omega
    Year: 1962
    Reference No: 2998-4
    Movement No: 18'645'739
    Model Name: Speedmaster "FAP"
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 321, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Omega, reference 7912, end links stamped 6, max length 180mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel folding deployant clasp, stamped 1.62
    Dimensions: 39.5mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Omega Extract of the Archives confirming production of the present watch was delivered to the Peruvian Air Forces on 25, 1962, further accompanied by pilot gear, FAP identification card and “Al Merito Aeronautico” medals.
    Literature: For a similar example see Omega Watches, John Goldberger, pg. 222.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The original Speedmaster reference 2915 was in production for only two years until it was replaced in 1959 by the present model, reference 2998. It was only in production until 1962, even though models were still being delivered in 1963. Small modifications (different hands, bezels or dials) were made to reference 2998 throughout its production period, each modification being defined by the number after the hyphen in the reference number inscribed in the caseback. In this case: 2998-4.

    This particular reference features a rare straight lugs case housing the legendary Lemania based caliber 321. It furthermore features the correct long minute markers in the minute subdial, applied Omega logo and has the correct black tachometer bezel graduated to 500 units. An Omega steel bracelet reference 7912 with expandable links completes the set.

    The ultimate desirability and rarity of this watch is further enhanced by the fact that it was delivered to the Fuerza Aerea del Perú (Peruvian Airforces) evidenced by the FAP engraving on the back. It was worn by General Enrico Praeli, whom in 1985 was named Head of the Joint Command of the Armed Forces. This Joint Command is tasked with the mission to plan, prepare, coordinate and conduct military operations and actions to guarantee independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and support the national development of Perú.

    The present 2998-4 FAP bears the signs of having been worn in airborne action, further underlining its true military nature and comes full with General Enrico Praeli’s pilot gear, FAP identification card and “Al Mérito Aeronautico” medals. Instituted in 1946, these medals awarded particular achievements in aeronautical and military activities.

    This timepiece is in particularly appealing condition, having aged with elegance. It is also a must have not only because of its military background but also thanks to the full set of memorabilia that completes it, making it the ultimate collectors item.

  • Artist Biography

    Omega

    Swiss • 1848

    Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed its name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph wristwatch to be chosen by NASA in 1965 — the first watch worn on the moon.

    Key models sought-after by collectors include their first, oversized water-resistant chronograph — the reference 2077, early Speedmaster models such as the CK 2915 and 2998, military-issued versions of the Seamaster and oversized chronometer models such as those fitted with their prestigious caliber 30T2Rg.

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126

Ref. 2998-4
A fine and very rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and bracelet, made for the Peruvian Air Force accompanied by pilot's gear, army medals and FAP ID

1962
39.5mm. Diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF20,000 - 40,000 
€17,300-34,500
$20,700-41,300

Sold for CHF52,500

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
+41 22 317 81 89
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: SIX

Geneva Auctions 11 - 12 November 2017