Omega’s original Speedmaster, the reference 2915, was the brand’s first tool watch to feature a tachymeter scale on the bezel opposed to the dial, which had been the norm for chronograph wristwatches throughout the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. This innovative design would be a game changer and within a few years, it was employed by many brands. First released in 1957, the reference 2915 featured the foundations for all future Speedmaster timepieces, and it is from this lineage the reference 2998 was born. Released in 1959, early examples like the present watch used the famed Lemania caliber 321, revered amongst watch enthusiasts for its robustness, accuracy, and durability. The manual wound caliber was used by Omega from 1946-1968 and offered optimal performance and reliability.
The reference 2998 was only in production for three short years with production ending in 1962. In that timeframe, small modifications to the design (different hands, bezels, or dials) were introduced, with each new iteration designated by the number after the hyphen in the reference number inscribed in the case back. The present watch, a highly desirable reference 2998-1, was the very first iteration of this reference. Eight case variations were made over the three years, (-1, -2, -3, -4, -5, -6, -61, -62), indicating how intensively Omega was honing the design of the Speedmaster – they clearly viewed the reference as integral to their success as a brand. The -1 variation is found with serial numbers between 17’301’xxx and 17-761’xxx with the present chronograph bearing movement no. 17’302’887 along with OXG import code for the American market.
The present example is fresh-to-the-market and in remarkable condition, with a crisp case and sharp “hippocampus” caseback engraving. Its dial and hands are all original superb, beautifully aged and well preserved with its luminous hour markers having aged to an attractive warm chestnut hue. Omega’s Speedmaster is an icon in horology, and this early reference 2998-1 is a wonderful representation of these mid-20th century tool watches.
