Omega - The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE Geneva Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Omega
    Year: 1959
    Reference No: 2915-2
    Movement No: 16'648'605
    Model Name: Speedmaster
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 321, 17 Jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel semi expandable bracelet with end links stamped 6, max length 175mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Omega deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 38mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Omega Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1959 and delivery to France. Further accompanied by Omega invoice for creation of a new bezel

  • Catalogue Essay

    The Speedmaster is not only one of horology’s best known models and still in production more 60 years after its launch but the original models with the so called “Broad Arrow” hands have become amongst the most coveted sports watches of the era.

    The first generation model, reference CK 2915 launched in 1957, is considered by collectors as “the grail” for a number of reasons. In terms of design, it was the first chronograph to feature a tachymeter scale (or, as Omega called it at the time, the Tacho-productometer scale) on the bezel, rather than on the dial. In terms of movements, Omega did not go for a brand new caliber, turning instead to caliber 321, an extremely robust and reliable column-wheel chronograph, which it recognized as the best available option for its new Speedmaster.

    In production only between 1957 and 1959, the reference 2915 was produced in three different iterations: -1, -2, and -3. CK2915-1 and -2 are the very first – and most collectible - Speedmaster models. They have unique differences from all later generations of Speedmasters, most notably in their dial graphics and important elements of case design. The large “Broad Arrow” minute and hour hands are one such trait, but also the metal bezel - rather than a bezel with black insert - and slightly different dial graphics, distinguishable by the oval “O” of Omega. This oval will later become perfectly round. Also the case has details which would later be abandoned, such as the “Speedmaster” designation engraved on the slanted edge of the caseback rather than on the center.

    The present reference 2915-2 was originally made for the French market and was found by the current owner in France with an incorrect bezel. Omega was tasked to make a bezel specially for this watch as indicated in the Omega invoice that accompanies it.

    In overall appealing condition and offered with its original semi-expandable bracelet with "6" end links the present watch offers a wonderful value for the collector.

  • 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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176

Ref. 2915-2
A fine and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with Broad Arrow hands and bracelet

1959
38mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF40,000 - 80,000 
€35,600-71,300
$40,300-80,600

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+ 41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE

Geneva Auction 11-12 May 2019