Omega Speedmaster 105.012 Men's Vintage Chronograph Watch

An attractive example of the Omega Speedmaster Reference 105.012. Often called a transitional reference, the Speedmaster ref 105.012 marked a particularly important milestone in the Speedmaster story. 

Launched in 1964 and produced up to 1968 the Speedmaster 105.012 is perhaps the most important reference in the Speedmaster story. Not only is it the definitive “Moon watch” having been the first to land on the moon - worn by both Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin when landing on the moon on the Apollo XI mission in 1969, it also ushered in a number of design changes that created the look of the modern Speedmaster we see today.

Most of the changes could be found in the case, the most notable of which was the inclusion of protection for the pushers and crown. The lugs also changed from straight to faceted (known as ‘Lyre Lugs’) and the whole case grew from a diameter of 42mm, up from the original 39mm of the original CK2915 and the 40mm of the subsequent straight lug cases. Examples up to the 105.012-65 were fitted with a double-bevel case-back and a single bevel thereafter.  

On the dial front, the 105.012 was the first reference to include the ‘Professional’ inscription. Previously it was suggested this was added from July 1965 following NASA’s certification of the Speedmaster for its astronauts. However more recent research has confirmed the Professional inscription was in fact included from the start of production of the 105.012 in early 1964. Finally, this reference also saw the addition of the T’s on either side of SWISS MADE, although not until April 1964.

The Speedmaster 105.012 is a must-have for any collector of Speedmasters or vintage chronographs in general. It also remains a highly usable watch and one that will continue to offer reliable service to its fortunate owner!