Manufacturer: Omega Year: 1985 Reference No: ST 345'0809 Movement No: 28'862'623 Model Name: Speedmaster Professional "Speedymoon" Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 866, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Omega buckle Dimensions: 40mm. Diameter Signed: Case, movement, and dial signed
Catalogue Essay
In 1985 Omega produced a limited production of the first of the three ‘Moonphase’ Chronograph models.
The first was called the Speedmaster Moonphase with case reference ST.345.0809 and was produced in a limited production run of 1'300 pieces in stainless steel. It used an improved calibre 866 movement, which included a calendar indication at 12 o'clock with a moonphase indication. Both of these functions were controlled via push pieces on the upper left side of the case.
This example offered has never been exposed to polishing; it impresses any beholder with its full body and sharp angles to the facets of the lugs. Still retaining its original strap and Omega buckle, this watch is a must for the ‘Speedy Collector’.
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed its name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph wristwatch to be chosen by NASA in 1965 — the first watch worn on the moon.
Key models sought-after by collectors include their first, oversized water-resistant chronograph — the reference 2077, early Speedmaster models such as the CK 2915 and 2998, military-issued versions of the Seamaster and oversized chronometer models such as those fitted with their prestigious caliber 30T2Rg.