Omega Speedmaster 2998-3

The Omega Speedmaster is the most important wristwatch ever made.

This bold opinion, as subjective as it might be, is one we hear echoed regularly at our collector gatherings, in forums and panels, and in print. The reasoning behind it is pretty simple really, and something we can hardly argue with: The Omega Speedmaster was the first watch on the Moon.  The fucking Moon.

Although we live in the age of instantaneous global communication, rapid transit, the world wide web, and Spanx, we are still in a state of awe when considering the conquest of space achieved by our grandparents, and a sincere state of depression that we have not continued their legacy. Setting foot on a heavenly body is perhaps man's single greatest achievement, and the men and machines that made it happen are nothing short of legendary.

The Omega Speedmaster is of course our favorite machine of the era, and is without question a horological icon. With perfect form-follows-function looks and a brilliantly designed professional-grade mechanical chronograph movement, the Speedmaster would stand with the best watches ever made on its own merits alone. But its key involvement in the Space Program's golden era clearly puts it on an entirely different level altogether.

While the later Speedmaster Professional models are perhaps better known (indeed, variants are still being made today!), the Pre-Professional models, starting with the very first Reference 2915 in 1957, are the most collectable. Truly rare, early straight-lug models without crown guards occupy the hearts and minds of serious enthusiasts with a growing fervor. There is no question that the Speedmaster market is really heating up (due in no small part to the nearing 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing in 2019), and strong early examples are becoming harder and harder to locate.

This particular execution, a Reference 2998-3 from circa 1960, is distinguishable from other models with its characteristic large Alpha hour and minute hands as well as smaller white Alpha-style hands used for the subsidiary register counters. In entirely original condition with only two owners since new, this 2998 is one of the most honest examples we've come across, without relumed hands or a refinished case. Its case back is in excellent condition with a legible Hippocampus logo. It also bears a really cool engraving of the original owner's name (M.E. Morgan), and it comes fitted with its original barrel pushers, crown, and a genuine Hesalite crystal. The original Base 500 "DO90" bezel shows a bit of wear, particularly noticeable on the left side (a common wear area), but we have opted to leave it alone for originality's sake. Mechanically, the Calibre .321 column wheel movement has just been treated to a full overhaul by our friends at Central Watch, and will come with an 18-Month warranty.

Due to the overwhelming demand for Pre-Moon Speedmasters, we have opted to list this beautiful example for a few days in order to field inquiries and offers fairly. If you'd like to catch an honest and beautiful example of one of the most desirable Reference 2998 executions, don't hesitate to drop us a line! 

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.