Pre-Baselworld 2009: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Apollo 11 40th Anniversary Chronograph

In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin laying down man's first footprints upon the moon, Omega has announced a special version of its famous Speedmaster Chronograph watch. To be offered in a limited edition of 7,969 pieces, the Omega Speedmaster Apollo 11 "40th Anniversary" Chronograph shares many of the same technical specifications as the classic Speedmaster Moonwatch Chronograph, including the shatterproof hesalite crystal, the black tachymeter bezel, and the legendary Lemania hand-wound chronograph movement. The matte Speedmaster Moonwatch dial displays an inset medallion at the small seconds subdial, which re- creates the Apollo 11 mission patch of an eagle clutching an olive branch. Other details which distinguish this commemorative Speedmaster watch include the historic landing time of "02:56 GMT" in red beneath the Omega signature, a red-tipped central chronograph hand, and a small etching of the Omega symbol on the underside of the crystal.

The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Apollo 11 40th Anniversary Chronograph is completed by a stainless steel bracelet, which offers the worthwhile upgrade of Omega's patented screw and pin adjustment system. Each of the 7,969 watches in the limited series are supplied in a presentation box. Inside, a two-sided 42mm silver medallion pays tribute to the historic lunar landing with a rendering of the mission patch as well as the dates of launch, landing, and return.