Omega Speedmaster Ref. 145.022 (1971, Stepped Dial): Moon Watch Evolution

The Omega Speedmaster Professional is the most historically significant watch in collecting for one overwhelming reason: it went to the moon. Worn by NASA astronauts on all crewed lunar landing missions, the Speedmaster earned its "Moonwatch" designation through rigorous NASA testing and actual use in the Apollo program. Understanding the reference evolution within the Speedmaster Professional line is key to collecting this legendary watch.

The reference 145.022 represents an important evolution in the Speedmaster line, produced from approximately 1968 through the 1970s. Within this reference, examples with the "stepped" or "raised dial" configuration from around 1971 are particularly sought by specialist collectors.

The Speedmaster Professional Context

The Speedmaster was introduced in 1957. The Professional designation and the association with NASA's manned space program made it one of the most recognized watches in the world. The reference 145.022 replaced the earlier 105.012 and related references, incorporating the caliber 861 movement (rather than the earlier 321) from 1968 onward.

The caliber transition from 321 to 861 is significant to collectors: the original 321-movement Speedmasters (used on the Apollo missions through Apollo 17) are generally considered more desirable and valuable than 861-movement examples, though the 145.022 reference in excellent condition retains substantial collector interest.

The Stepped Dial

The "stepped dial" (also called "raised dial" or "step dial") refers to a specific dial construction variant within the 145.022 production. The dial has a subtle raised step or ledge at the inner edge of the chapter ring (the outer ring with minute markers). This construction detail:

• Appears on a subset of 145.022 examples from around 1968-1972

• Is visible as a slight height difference between the chapter ring and the main dial surface

• Is considered by specialists to be an earlier production characteristic within the reference

The stepped dial variant is more sought-after than the later flat dial versions, particularly in combination with other desirable features like the "white subdial with printing" or the asymmetric case design.

Condition Grades and Value

Box and papers (the original box, chronograph papers, and warranty card) add substantial value to any vintage Speedmaster, often $3,000-5,000 to the above figures.

Identification Considerations

For the 145.022 stepped dial:

Reference on case back: The reference number should be engraved on the case back along with the serial number.

Dial inscription: Should read "OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL" in appropriate period typography.

Movement: Caliber 861 (a column wheel, lever escapement chronograph movement).

Case: Asymmetric case (Moonwatch shape) with "Asymmetrical" noting that the crown-side lug is longer than the other.

Bracelet: Original Omega bracelets (references 1039/516, 1450, or similar period-correct examples) add value. Many surviving examples have non-original bracelets.

The "Holy Trinity" of Vintage Speedmaster

Among Speedmaster collectors, the most sought-after references are:

• Reference 2915: Very earliest Speedmaster (1957-1959), extremely rare

• Reference 105.012: The Apollo-era references with caliber 321

• Reference 145.022: The transitional reference, especially early examples with stepped dial

The 145.022 is the most accessible entry point into collector-grade vintage Speedmaster, offering genuine historical connection to the NASA program at prices significantly below the earlier 321-movement examples.

Authentication

For significant purchases, consulting a specialist (Omega specialists, major auction houses, or dedicated vintage Speedmaster dealers) is recommended. The combination of serial number, reference number, dial characteristics, and movement caliber should all be consistent with authentic production.

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