1960s Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 145.012 - 67 SP Why This Watch Matters This model marked the end of an era for the Speedy's teardrop shaped second hand and beloved caliber 321. The Full Story The Speedmaster is one of the most important watches of all time. The chronograph has made history multiple times and has a cult following of enthusiasts and collectors. The ref. 145.012 was made from 1967 to 1969. These are referred to as pre-Moon Speedmasters because they came before the Moon landing on July 20, 1969. Just because these are "pre-Moon" doesn't mean they weren't in space. This reference was worn by several astronauts, including Michael Collins on Apollo 11, Alan Shepard on Apollo 14, and Tom Stafford on the Apollo-Soyuz mission. T he reference 145.012 notably marked the end of an era in the production of the Omega Speedmaster. It belongs to the last generation housing the caliber 321, replaced on later models by the caliber 861. While the 861 is a solid movement (and flight qualified by NASA as part of the Speedmaster’s recertification in the 1970s), the caliber 321 is a classic, column-wheel, lateral-clutch movement with Breguet over coil – a true chronometer grade wristwatch movement of the old school. This reference was also the last to feature a seconds hand with a drop-shaped tail, which was replaced with the now-standard flat chronograph seconds hand in all later models. All in all, the 145.012 is a true Professional Speedy with lyre-form lugs, stepped dial, and applied Omega logo. The watch you see here is an attractive example of this iconic timepiece and features the original tall special pushers and original bezel. This watch has a great overall look, from the nicely worn "Dot over 90" bezel to the stepped dial with applied logo. We paired this Speedy on our Moss Green Calfskin strap to play off of the color of the lume and give this sporty watch a more casual and sophisticated look. The Fine Print Maker: Omega Model: Speedmaster Professional Reference: 145.012 - 67 SP Year: Circa 1968 Case No: NA; Movement No: 26071813 Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 42mm diameter; 12.5mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Manual winding 321 Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Calf Moss Green Lug Width: 20mm Box/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Speedy Pro is in overall good, attractive condition. The case is strong with scratches. The case has some nicks and scratches on the tips and edges of the lugs. The case appears to have been lightly polished. The “Speedmaster” text and hippocampus are clearly visible on the caseback. The dial and hands are in good condition with some patina. The dial has a few spots throughout with some near both sides of the minutes register at three o’clock. Most of the lume is missing in the hour hand and some lume is missing in the minute hand and the lume remaining in the hands has darkened. The lume on the dial has developed patina and in some areas has dark patina. The crown is a later Omega replacement. The original “Dot Over 90” bezel has scratches and wear throughout, it also has some indentions on the side. The crystal is a non-Omega signed replacement. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
