In the field of wristwatches, the Speedmaster is a true icon, and universally acknowledged as the most historically important model made by Omega. Its history spans over sixty years with the very first Speedmaster launched in 1957, having slowly and gracefully evolved through the decades with a variety of dial, hand, bezel, and bracelet variations. Today’s modern Speedmaster line has unmistakable ties to the original. The first-generation model, reference CK 2915, is considered by collectors as “the grail” for a number of reasons. In terms of design, it was the first chronograph to feature a tachymeter scale (or, as Omega called it at the time, the Tacho-productometer scale) on the bezel, rather than on the dial. In terms of movements, Omega did not go for a brand new caliber, turning instead to caliber 321, an extremely robust and reliable column-wheel chronograph, which it recognized as the best available option for its new Speedmaster model.
In production only between 1957 and 1959, the reference 2915 was produced in three different iterations: -1, -2, and -3. CK2915-1 and -2 are the very first – and most collectible - Speedmaster models. They have unique differences from all later generations of Speedmasters, most notably in their dial graphics and important elements of case design. The large, “Broad Arrow” minute and hour hands are one such trait, but also the metal bezel - rather than a bezel with black insert - and slightly different dial graphics, distinguishable by the oval “O” of Omega. This oval would later become perfectly round. Also the case has details which would later be abandoned, such as the “Speedmaster” designation engraved on the beveled, outer edge of the case back rather than on the center, and the hippocampus engraving would be added later.
The present lot, a reference 2915-2, belongs to the second iteration of the first generation of Speedmasters, fitted with all of its original parts exhibiting all of the early details collectors adore. The first is the rare Base 1000 metal bezel, followed by the dial configuration. The Omega signature features the iconic "fat" O followed by the slightly longer "r" in the Speedmaster signature, and the caseback bears a crisp “Speedmaster” engraving on the edge of the caseback. Preserved in exceptional overall condition, it comes with its period correct Omega presentation box with corduroy interior and gold-stamped seahorse on the top of the box. According to the Omega Extract from the Archives, this reference 2915-2 was delivered to Venezuela in the first month of 1959, perfectly matching the 1.59 stamp on its partially-extensible Omega bracelet.