Omega - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XII Hong Kong Saturday, June 5, 2021 | Phillips

Create your first list.

Select an existing list or create a new list to share and manage lots you follow.

  • Manufacturer: Omega
    Year: 1968
    Reference No: 145.012-67 SP
    Movement No: 26’550’841
    Model Name: Speedmaster Professional
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 321, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 42mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Delivered with an Omega Extract from the Archives confirming its date of production for the present timepiece on 15th November 1968 and its subsequent delivery to the US Army (European Exchange System).

  • Catalogue Essay

    Released in 1967, the Omega Speedmaster ref. 145.012 was the last reference to be powered by the famous cal. 321. Prior to the moon landing in 1969, the refs. 145.012 and 105.012 were among the most rigorously tested models to conquer the special mission. Differing from the ref. 105.012, the ref. 145.012 featured special pushers (SP) that sits slightly higher than its counterpart. The reference was discontinued in the first half of 1969.

    While most would shift their attention to the event of the moon landing, the period saw other events happening in the world such as the height of the cold war between the Soviet Union and the United States of America along with their allies. During the period, the US Army set up camps and bases in various counties in Europe including a large base in Germany. In 1968, it is estimated that there was over 250,000 US Army and US Air Force troops stationed in Germany. To cater towards the well-being and necessities of the troops, the European Exchange System (ESS – Established in 1947) was the general store where troops were able to shop for food and goods, including watches. Among one of the brands selected as a European Exchange System item was Omega.

    The present Omega Speedmaster Professional ref. 145.012-67 SP from 1968 with a correct 26.55 million serial, dot diagonal 70 bezel insert and a spaced “T” dial is a wonderful specimen of the coveted reference. Preserved in attractive overall condition boasting a nice case and dial, the present example is delivered with an Extract from the Archives issued by Omega confirming its date of production of the present timepiece in 1968 and its subsequent delivery to the US Army (European Exchange System). With a decorated history and confirmed by Omega, this Speedmaster will surely impress collectors of fine vintage chronograph timepieces.

  • 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.

    View More Works

930

Ref. 145.012-67 SP
A fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch

1968
42mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$46,000 - 93,500 
€4,900-10,000
$5,900-12,000

Sold for HK$107,100

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XII

Hong Kong Auctions 5-6 June 2021