1968 Vintage Omega Speedmaster 'Ed White' 321

An exciting opportunity to own an important piece of history, combining the worlds of horology and space travel.
 
The Omega Speedmaster was originally produced in 1957 as a sports and racing chronograph, and quickly earned a reputation for unrivalled reliability and performance. By 1st June 1965, the Speedmaster was declared by NASA as “Flight Qualified for all Manned Space Missions” after undergoing a series of rigorous tests.
 
Watch Concierge Services is pleased to present for sale this fine example of reference 105.003, dating from 1968. This watch is affectionately known as the “Ed White”, after the astronaut who wore one on the first spacewalk outside a spacecraft.
 
This reference is significant as the last of the Speedmasters to be fitted with the highly regarded calibre 321 movement, celebrated not only for its functionality but also for its aesthetic appeal.
 
Also representing a fascinating transitional phase for the Speedmaster, production of the 105.003 officially ceased in 1965, but Omega continued to refine the model in preparation for the approaching moon landing. This particular watch did not leave Switzerland until 1968 and, by that time, Omega had improved the water resistance of the pushers. As a result, it was fitted with the “Wide and Tall” pushers, an upgrade identifiable by the “SP” (for “Special Pushers”) on the inside of the case back. It is believed that only three watches exist with the reference 105.003 SP, fitted with their correct chronograph hand, of which this is one.
 
The watch is fitted with its original Singer dial, featuring an applied Omega logo. The tritium on the dial and hands has developed an even patina and has been well-preserved given the watch’s age. The subdials show slight “chocolating”, adding to the character of this timepiece.
 
The bezel is an original Omega “Dot Over 90” (DON), and along with the case and case back, is in very good condition. The Hippocampus is still visible on the case back, indicating no over-polishing or heavy wear. The case and bracelet remain in very good vintage condition, taking age into account.
 
The historically important and aesthetically pleasing calibre 321 movement has been tested and found to be running well, and as such the watch is supplied with a six-month warranty. It also comes with paperwork from a full service carried out by Simon Freese in 2020.
 
Also included are an Omega Extract from the Archives, an Omega booklet, a period correct Omega presentation box, and additional paperwork.
 
This watch is for the enthusiast who values historical mechanics and would make a wonderful addition to any collection.
 
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