On July 16th, 1969, the world held its breath as the mighty Saturn V rocket propelled Apollo 11 towards the moon. Four days later, on July 20th, 1969, Neil Armstrong uttered his immortal words, "That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind," as he became the first human to set foot on the lunar surface. But alongside this monumental achievement, a smaller, yet equally significant piece of history was being made: Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, wore an Omega Speedmaster Professional on his wrist. This seemingly humble timepiece became inextricably linked to one of humanity's greatest triumphs, forever cementing its place in horological legend and significantly impacting its value and desirability. This article delves into the fascinating history of the Omega Speedmaster Professional worn on the moon, exploring its significance, its value in the modern market, and the various ways to acquire a piece of this historic legacy.
The Omega Speedmaster Professional's journey to the moon wasn't a matter of chance. It was the result of rigorous testing and NASA's meticulous selection process. In the early 1960s, NASA began searching for a robust and reliable chronograph that could withstand the extreme conditions of space travel. Several watches were put through a series of grueling tests, including exposure to extreme temperatures, pressure changes, and acceleration forces. The Omega Speedmaster emerged as the clear winner, demonstrating its superior performance and resilience. Its sturdy construction, manual-winding movement, and legible dial proved invaluable in the harsh environment of space. The watch's ability to withstand shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures was crucial for the astronauts' safety and mission success. This rigorous testing and subsequent selection solidified the Speedmaster's position as the official watch of NASA's space program.
The Speedmaster worn by Aldrin on July 20th, 1969, was a testament to this rigorous testing and selection process. While Armstrong also carried a Speedmaster, it remained in the lunar module, making Aldrin's watch the first to be worn on the moon's surface. This fact alone catapulted the Omega Speedmaster to iconic status, transforming it from a relatively unknown chronograph into a highly sought-after collector's item. The image of Aldrin, silhouetted against the stark lunar landscape, his Speedmaster clearly visible on his wrist, became an enduring symbol of human achievement and the watch's exceptional capabilities.
current url：https://xqleyg.cx347.com/guide/omega-speedmaster-professional-july-20-1969-35591
omega speedmaster moonwatch value rolex clasp blades don't bend