Omega Speedmaster Mark II

After becoming The First Watch Worn On The Moon in 1969, Omega’s Speedmaster collection expanded to include a variety of new models in the 1970s. This all began with the Speedmaster Mark II. Mark II Speedmasters were the first radical departure from the traditional Speedmaster case — instead of the traditional exposed lug design, the Mark II featured a tonneau/cushion shape with hidden lugs, giving it a great profile and a distinctive look. There were two dials offered on the Mark II: a traditional triple-register black dial that was virtually identical to that of the original Professional, and a grey dial with a colorful outer track known to collectors as an “exotic” or “racing” dial. The latter — and the watch we have here — weren't initially as popular and most of the distribution was outside of the United States. Today, however, they’re increasingly coveted for their combination of colorful looks, workhorse movement and robust case design. Like all Mark II models, this particular example, a Reference 145.034, is powered by the Calibre .861 manual-winding chronograph movement used in Speedmaster Professional models between 1968 and 2021. It features a gold-plated 41mm tonneau-shaped case, a beautiful sunburst champagne dial with applied indices and a matching handset, a maroon tachymeter crystal, and a matching gold-plated multi-link bracelet with a signed blade clasp. All in all, this is a beautiful example of one of the most fun Speedmaster variants ever produced, with a very 1970s twist.