Launched in 1959, the Omega Speedmaster reference 2998 was the successor of the first model, reference 2915. It is also known for being the first Speedmaster in space as it was the personal watch of Wally Shirra during the Sigma 7 Mission of the Mercury program in October 1962.
The present watch had, however, a different destiny; still airborne but closer to the earth. When looking at the caseback, one will notice the three letters: FAP standing for Fuerza Aérea del Peru. Up to the early 60s, Omega was providing timepieces for the Peruvian pilots before another brand was selected by the army. The extract of the Omega archives confirms that the watch was delivered to the Peruvian Air Forces in June 1962.
In production for only 4 years, researches show that eight case references were produced. The present reference 2998-5 differentiates itself from the previous version by the abolition of the Alpha hands on the subdials but it keeps this type of hands for the hours and minutes with a straight central chronograph hand and black bezel graduated 500. The watch is powered by the first generation caliber 321, fitted to all Speedmasters until 1968/69.
In excellent overall condition and fitted with its original bracelet stamped for the second quarter of 1960, this Speedmaster will be a great addition to any military related watch collection.