126 Omega Historically Important and Early Speedmaster Chronograph Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 2998–1, With Tachymeter Bezel

Estimate: € 15,000 –⁠ 30,000

Sold € 48,750

Model: Speedmaster
Reference: 2998-1
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1960's
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 321
Movement N°: 17302337
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case

The life of the legendary Speedmaster firstly start in 1957 with the reference 2915 from a creation by Pierre Moinat, head of Omega’s “creative” department with the case designed by Claude Baillod and continued in 1959 with the reference 2998 like the present watch. Very similar to each other, these models were the first chronograph to feature a tachymeter scale on the bezel, hence rendering the dial more legible while simplifying the calculation of speed—They differ from each other only in small details and graphic variations on the tachymeter scale. The lot offered here is a very remarkable exponent of this family immediately visible for the conditions of its stainless steel tonneau case and the screw back with the Speedmaster logo engraving still clearly visible. The dial as well is changing its original black color assuming that tropicalization that so much fascinates collectors around the world. The alpha hands still present the aged luminous material while the hour/minute numerals have assumed a copper color.