Is the Speedmaster Professional still manual-wind?

Yes. The current Moonwatch references use the manual-wind Calibre 3861, preserving the manual-wind heritage that goes back to the original 1957 model. Owners wind the watch by hand, typically once per day.

Hesalite or sapphire crystal - which should I choose?

Hesalite (acrylic) preserves the original Apollo-era look and is shatter-resistant, but scratches more easily than sapphire. Sapphire is harder and offers a clearer view of the dial, but reflects more and looks visually 'newer'. Both run the same Calibre 3861.

Why was the Speedmaster chosen by NASA?

NASA blind-tested chronographs from several manufacturers in 1965 against extreme temperature, vibration, vacuum, and shock conditions. The Speedmaster was the only watch to pass all tests, after which it was flight-qualified for all manned missions.

Watch Models

Omega Speedmaster Professional - The Moonwatch

The Speedmaster Professional became the only watch flight-qualified by NASA for manned space missions and was worn on the lunar surface in July 1969. Today it remains the longest continuously produced manual-wind chronograph in luxury watchmaking.

By Ira Zoot

Reviewed against editorial standards 3 cited sources Last updated April 26, 2026 Subject-matter reviewed

1957 origins

Introduced as part of Omega's professional trilogy alongside the Seamaster 300 and Railmaster, the original CK 2915 used the column-wheel Calibre 321 and a tachymeter scale on the bezel - a layout reading-friendly enough for engineers and motorsport timers.

NASA qualification

Following blind testing against several chronographs in 1965, NASA flight-qualified the Speedmaster for all manned missions. Buzz Aldrin's reference 105.012 was worn on the Apollo 11 EVA, cementing the Moonwatch designation that Omega still uses today.

Modern production

Current Moonwatch references use the manual-wind Calibre 3861, a Master Chronometer–certified evolution of the legendary Calibre 1861 that adds a co-axial escapement and silicon balance spring. The hesalite-crystal version preserves the visual character of the original.

Collector appeal

The Speedmaster's combination of historical credibility, manual-wind craftsmanship, and accessible pricing relative to the Holy Trinity makes it a staple of well-rounded collections. It also serves as one of the few chronographs that pairs naturally with both formal and casual wear.