Why This Watch Matters
This Omega Speedmaster Mark III features a substantial steel case with a gorgeous metallic blue dial, on top of being the first self-winding Speedmaster model.
The Full Story
Since 1957, the Speedmaster model has been in Omega’s repertoire of core designs. This example represents an era of Speedmaster that is clearly from the 1970s, when watch designs became bolder, fiercer, and more vibrant in color. First, the case made by the renowned casemaker Ervin Piquerez S. A. is massive in size and weight, which serves not only a technical purpose toward durability, but adds presence on your wrist. The metallic bright blue dial color paired with the orange chronograph minute hand is undeniably a nod to that era as well. And last but not least, this was the first Speedmaster model to have a self-winding movement plus a date as well. This watch will definitely make you stand out from the crowd.
The Fine Print
Maker: Omega
Model: Speedmaster Mark III
Reference: 176.002
Year: Circa 1970s
Case No: N/A
Movement No:36268923
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 41mm diameter; 17mm thickness
Crystal: Mineral glass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Omega self-winding caliber 1040
Bracelet/Strap: Omega stainless-steel bracelet, stamped “1162/172”
Lug Width: 22mm
Box/Papers: No
What we Love and What You Should Know
Overall, this watch is in very good condition. The case shows some surface scratches and was possibly lightly polished. There are some minor nicks on the case where it meets the crystal. The engraving on the caseback appears to have been polished off, which is common since the engravings on these watches were very light to begin with. The dial is clean in general with some flaking of the metallic blue finish in certain areas. The lume plots have gained some patina and show some loss in several locations. There is a minor loss of orange paint on the hand. The bracelet shows some stretch between the links. The crystal shows some scratches in some areas.
